Buck Knives, Inc., a widely-recognized global leader in the hunting, outdoor, and everyday carry (EDC) knife markets, joins many outdoorsmen and women in heralding the opening of hunting seasons.
For many hunters, the first day of the fall hunting season begins during Labor Day weekend with the opening of dove seasons. Need a reason to gear up, buy a license, and go hunting? The estimated US mourning dove population is around 350 million.
(In North Carolina, the opener is Sept. 2 where most states with seasons open Sept. 1)
Buck Knives offers these tips for everyone planning and going on a dove hunting trip:
*Check all hunting equipment and pre-test any new equipment purchased. From seats to coolers to shotguns, check that all gear is in good working order. If you can’t find your hunting knife, consider some of these top knives from the Buck Knives’ factory: the 102 Buck Woodsman Knife; the 112 Ranger Sport Knife or the iconic 110 Folding Hunter Knife. All of these knives have, or are offered with, clip-point blades that can aid with precision dressing of bagged doves headed for the cookout or freezer. The fine point of the clip-style blade greatly aids with precsion cutting and each of these knives will be easy to handle and easy to clean after the cutting chores are complete. Find the best knife for dove hunting at www.buckknives.com.
*Scout and select an active hunting location. Doves are migratory birds that like to eat in open fields and drink from water sources like ponds. Use binoculars and scout for doves on the bare branches in dead trees, on the ground or around cut grain fields, along fence rows and near old gravel pits. Once you find a large number of doves, watch to see where the birds go–and where they are coming from. Top hunting locations are often sites where hunters can conceal in tall grasses and brush as doves travel to and from food and water.
*Pack the extras. When heading for a dove hunt, remember to pack snacks and water along with a seat and shotshells. Many hunters quit hunting because they become tired and thirsty. Snacks and water are very important if you will be bringing a young hunter along on her or his first dove hunt. Oh, in case you were wondering, the average hunter shoots more than 3 boxes–75 shotshells– to bag a limit of 15 birds. Using an improved or modified choke in the shotgun can also aid with connecting on more passing doves. Many hunters select shotshells with sizes #7.5, #8 and #9 shot for the hunt.
The 2024 Dove Hunting Countdown Begins: Opener is Sept. 1
*Use a dog. The number one reason hunters cannot find a dove is because they have missed marking or noting the location where a dove went down after the shot. Wounded doves will also hide under grasses and weeds, so having a hunting dog along on the hunt can improve the recovery rates. Select a location where you and your canine hunting companion can be easily concealed from passing doves. Remember to bring water for the dog also.
Dove hunting provides quality recreation and time outdoors with family and freinds–plus a tasty meal for those who find success. Need a knife for the hunt? Buck Knives offers more than 200 knife models and all are covered under the company’s industry-leading Forever Warranty. Additional details on the warranty and the many knives can be found at www.buckknives.com. Follow firearms safety rules and enjoy the great outdoors!
