If other hunters are under the influence of alcohol, they are not safe to be around. A safe dove field should allow plenty of space for hunters to spread apart. If a hunter doubts the character or abilities of the other participants, it is better to walk away. That includes avoiding illegal, baited fields. T.J. Jennings, chief of law enforcement with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, said hunters need to check the land first and make sure any grain is broadcast evenly in a normal agricultural practice.
Conservation officers work to protect people and wildlife for future hunting seasons.
Other pre-hunt responsibilities include purchasing a hunting license and making sure the gun is plugged and not capable of holding more than three shells for hunting migratory birds. Jennings said a new law going into effect this year requires that young hunters ages 12 to 15 complete a hunter education course before hunting. Some basic safety issues covered in hunter education classes include cleaning and maintaining firearms, keeping firearms unloaded en route to the hunt and using caution when carrying a firearm and crossing obstacles such as fences or ditches. Stewart said dove season is a good opportunity for introducing young people to hunting as a sport. In addition to the hunter education program, young people can improve the skills needed for sports hunting through Mississippi's 4-H Field and Stream program.