Texas LAND Summer 2017

SPORTING ISSUE
A mixed bag of indigenous white-wings
and mourning doves, along with a few
exotic Eurasian Collared Doves, often
referred to as bonus birds.
preferring locations with buildings and larger trees, such as old homesteads, ranch
headquarter locations, and on the outskirts of towns. They can take a punch and
you are well-served to use heavier bird loads on these hefty doves.
The Hunt
As mentioned earlier, out of the various hunting options, dove hunting is better
suited than most game animals when it comes to serving as a good fit for a variety of
occasions, including social excursions for family
or friends, corporate outings, or simply for the
lone hunter. Further, the dove season opener in
Texas falls during September when Friday night
lights are cranking up, the first cool days are
beginning to emerge, and the excitement of Fall
Fest is in the air. Dove hunting seems to offer a
renewed excitement for the those of us who have
suffered through the long summer doldrums,
awaiting our fall rituals, as hunters.
Essential gear and equipment for dove hunting
is generally modest. Your favorite shotgun with
plug, bird loads, light-weight camo, folding chair,
bug spray, valid Texas hunting license, and cool
beverages to mitigate the warm Texas weather.
Optional items might include dove decoys, snake
boots, and your favorite retrieving dog.
Strategies for dove hunting are generally
2-pronged, depending upon location. Those who
hunt over smaller farm ponds will typically seek
camo and shade under the cover of a tree, often
finding that the better water-hole shooting takes
place during the last few hours of daylight. The
other general venue for dove hunting takes place
over farm fields, which are typically either wheat
or grain sorghum, either of which are highly
desirable for doves. Mature sunflower fields can also be magnets for these birds,
and don’t overlook natural stands of native croton (dove weed) that are sometimes
scattered around the pasture, as these can be great spots for a dove shoot as well.
The Outfitter
Wildlife Systems, Inc. (WSI) is a hunting and wildlife management firm that was
started in 1987. In addition to offering hunts for a wide variety of other game and
exotics, WSI provides excellent dove hunting over grain fields in the San Angelo area.
Economically priced day-hunts are available and WSI also offers a limited number of
package dove hunts which include meals and lodging for groups of 8–15 hunters.
WSI clients typically enjoy mixed opportunities for mourning doves, whitewings, and
some Eurasian collared doves. Most of these hunts take place during the first three
weeks of September. °
For additional information on hunting with WSI, check out their website at
www.WildlifeSystems.com or call (325) 655-0877.
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