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Dove Hunting Checklist
Tennessee dove season opens at noon on September 1, usually in hot weather over cut or managed fields. A plugged shotgun and plenty of shells are the basics.
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Required by Tennessee law for this hunt: shotgun magazine plug.
Shotgun magazine plug
Shotguns used for migratory game birds may hold no more than three shells, so a magazine plug is required unless the gun is already limited to three.
Dove loads (#7.5 or #8 shot)
Migratory birds other than waterfowl may only be hunted with No. 4 or smaller shot; standard #7.5 or #8 dove loads meet that rule.
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Shell pouch
A shell pouch keeps nontoxic shells handy and separate from any lead loads at home.
Bucket seat
A bucket seat gives you a place to sit on the field edge and carries shells and birds.
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Dove decoys
A few decoys on a fence or dead tree draw doves into range.
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Shooting glasses
Glasses protect your eyes from stray shot from nearby hunters on crowded fields.
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Hearing protection
Electronic muffs protect your hearing at the range and still let you hear deer walking.
Water bottle or hydration pack
Early September dove shoots are often hot; carry more water than you think you need.
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Cooler
Ice down birds quickly in September heat to keep the meat from spoiling.
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Game shears
Shears make fast work of cleaning a limit of doves.
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Camo face mask
Turkeys spot a bare face fast; a mask hides skin and movement.
Spending more on a dove hunting setup?
Checklists for hunts other than dove hunting
Season dates and limits: Dove and Migratory Birds. Legal weapons and blaze orange: Tennessee hunting laws.
Dove Hunting checklist questions
What do I need for dove hunting in Tennessee?
The 11 items above, starting with shotgun magazine plug, dove loads (#7.5 or #8 shot) and shell pouch.
What gear does Tennessee law require?
For this hunt: shotgun magazine plug.
Do these links cost more?
No. Affiliate links do not change the price.
Do you test this gear?
No. Each item links to a search of current listings.
Where can I buy locally?
See the archery and sporting goods directory.
Is blaze orange required?
For big game during gun and muzzleloader hunts, 500 square inches on the upper body and head.
Are crossbows legal?
Yes, in every deer, bear, elk and turkey season.
When is the season?
See Dove and Migratory Birds for 2026-27 dates.