Combat Doves

Taking your limit of opening-day doves usually means outsmarting, and outshooting, stiff competition.

- Phil Bourjaily

THE DOVE OPENER is the most popular hunting day of the year, which means you probably won’t celebrate it alone. On some public land, dove openers qualify as combat hunting: not always shoulder to shoulder, but often a little too close for comfort. On private land, there’s “social” dove hunting, which is sometimes social, sometimes just a more genteel form of combat hunting. Either way, you will contend with people as well as doves. And for that, you need a plan.

STEP 1:

BRING PROTECTION

Most hunters know that safety comes first. That’s why even crowded dove openers routinely come off without a hitch. But in a situation like this, it’s just common sense to take a little extra care. Mistakes can happen. The last time I hunted a big public field, someone took a pellet to the cheek. The victim wasn’t seriously hurt, but lesson learned just the same: Wear shooting glasses.

Even cheap glasses can stop a load of 71⁄2s at close range; I know because I have shot them to find out. Glasses can help you see birds better, too, if you choose the right hue. Avoid dark green or gray lenses, even if it’s bright out. You need just enough tint to keep from squinting. Light bronze or rose is the way to go. Earplugs should be part of your combat hunting armor as well.

STEP 2:

BEAT ’EM OR JOIN ’EM