Dove Hunting Hunting Doves in Ohio Ranging from Mexico to Canada, and from coast to coast, the mourning dove is the most popular, abundant, and widespread game bird in North America. Its adaptable life-style and high reproductive rate have allowed its population to flourish in both agricultural and urban areas, making it one of the most common birds in Ohio.
Biologists estimate that at least four million doves are found in Ohio each fall.
Many of these doves are migrants from northern states and move through Ohio during the fall hunting season. The most successful dove hunters begin their season by scouting possible hunting areas in late August or early September. Likely hot spots include recently harvested soybean, corn, hay, or wheat fields. If the summer has been dry, a water source nearby will make the area more attractive to doves. Once a hunting area is located, hunters should set up along a fencerow or other cover.