Chattanooga, Tennessee, September 1, 2025
News Summary
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is set to kick off the dove hunting season on Labor Day, September 1, opening new private fields in the Chattanooga area. Hunters can expect a varied season with designated periods spanning from September to January, with existing wildlife management areas already prepared for enthusiasts. Regulations require a state hunting license and a Migratory Bird Permit, while the daily limit for mourning doves is set at 15. This season promises diverse hunting opportunities for both new and experienced hunters in the region.
Chattanooga, Tennessee Prepares for Dove Hunting Season
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has announced that the dove hunting season in Tennessee will open on Labor Day, September 1, at noon (local time), welcoming enthusiasts to a season filled with opportunities in various hunting fields. Notably, seven private fields have been added to the available hunting locations in Region III, which notably includes the Chattanooga area.
This expansion in hunting areas supplements the existing ten TWRA wildlife management areas already designated for dove hunting. Hunters can find detailed information, including directions to these locations, on the TWRA official website. The dove season is divided into three distinct segments: the first period from September 1 – September 28, the second from October 11 – November 2, and the third from December 8 – January 15, 2025.
Dove Hunting Rules and Regulations
Except on the opening day, designated hunting times are from half an hour before sunrise until sunset. Tennessee boasts a diverse distribution of doves, with higher concentrations typically found in farming regions. For hunters looking to participate, a valid state hunting license and a Tennessee Migratory Bird Permit are required.
It’s important for hunters to remember that permission is needed to hunt on private lands. The daily limit for mourning doves is set at 15 doves, while collared doves do not have a daily limit; however, any doves that cannot be identified as collared will count towards the mourning dove limit. Furthermore, hunters are strictly prohibited from using baiting to take migratory game birds.
In terms of firearm regulations, auto-loading or repeating shotguns utilized for dove hunting must be equipped to hold no more than three shells at any given time.
Other Opening Seasons
September 1 marks not just the start of dove season but also the early season for Canada geese, brant, blue, snow, and Ross’ geese, which extends until September 21. Additionally, other hunting seasons commencing include moorhens, gallinules, and rails (Virginia and sora), which will remain open until November 9. A short crow hunting season will also occur during overlapping dates with dove season from September 1-5 and will resume on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from September 12 to December 20.
For further details about these hunting opportunities and regulations, individuals can access the TWRA website’s Hunting section or utilize the TWRA App. The TWRA is committed to the protection, management, and conservation of fish and wildlife species while ensuring public safety through law enforcement and safety education initiatives on waterways.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the dove hunting season start in Tennessee?
The dove hunting season starts on Labor Day, September 1 at noon (local time).
What is the daily bag limit for mourning doves?
The daily bag limit for mourning doves is set at 15, while collared doves do not have a limit.
Are there any specific hunting regulations I need to follow?
Yes, hunters must possess a valid state hunting license and a Tennessee Migratory Bird Permit. They must also not hunt on private lands without permission and must use shotguns that hold no more than three shells.
What are the designated hunting times for doves?
Hunting times are from one-half hour before sunrise until sunset, except on the opening day, September 1.
Overview of Key Features for Dove Season
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Date | September 1, Labor Day |
| Daily Bag Limit (Mourning Doves) | 15 |
| Daily Bag Limit (Collared Doves) | No Limit |
| Hunting Times | Half an hour before sunrise until sunset (excluding opening day) |
| Required Permits | State hunting license and Tennessee Migratory Bird Permit |
| Shotgun Shell Limit | Maximum of three shells |
| Other Open Seasons on September 1 | Canada geese, brant, blue, snow and Ross’ geese; moorhens, gallinules, and rails; crow hunting |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chattanooga, Tennessee Welcomes Dove Hunting Season
Additional Resources
- News Channel 9
- Wikipedia: Dove Hunting
- Times Free Press
- Google Search: Dove Hunting Tennessee
- Garden & Gun
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dove Hunting
- Rhea Herald News
- Google News: Dove Hunting Chattanooga
- Local 3 News
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
