Texas Wingshooting: Dove, Duck and Quail

Season context

• Dove: Texas dove season opened in early September (North and Central zones Sept 1, South zone mid-September). The first split is winding down; the late split runs in December and January. Hot weather early, so plan water, shade and shooting near sunflower or harvested grain fields.
• Teal: the September early teal season has closed. Ducks: the main duck season opens in early November and runs into late January, with High Plains, North and South zones.
• Quail: bobwhite and scaled quail season opens in late October and runs through late February. Numbers swing with rainfall; check TPWD's yearly forecast.
• Exact dates and bag limits change every year. Always confirm them with Texas Parks and Wildlife before you hunt.

Source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Migratory Game Bird Regulations and TPWD Hunting Regulations (Outdoor Annual). Credit: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

License and legal checklist

• Texas hunting license (Resident or Nonresident).
• Migratory Game Bird Endorsement for dove and ducks; Upland Game Bird Endorsement for quail.
• HIP certification (Harvest Information Program) for migratory birds, done when you buy the license.
• Federal Duck Stamp for waterfowl hunters 16 and older.
• Hunter education certification if required for your age.
• Nontoxic shot for ducks; plug your shotgun to three shells for migratory birds.

Licenses: TPWD hunting licenses and endorsements.

Planning a guided bird hunt

1. Choose the bird and the zone, then the dates (opening weekends and cold fronts are busiest).
2. Ask whether the hunt is on private leased land, and how many guns share a field or blind.
3. Ask about dogs: are retrievers or pointing dogs provided, and can you bring your own?
4. Get the price per gun per day, what is included (bird cleaning, lodging, meals), and the cancellation policy.
5. Confirm the outfitter's licenses and check references, like any guided hunt.

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