There’s nothing quite like opening day. The anticipation, the early morning light, and the hum of wings against a late-summer sky. In the South, dove season marks the unofficial start of hunting season - a warm-weather tradition where friends gather, dogs learn their first lessons, and the field comes back to life.
At Field Traditions, we believe preparation makes the day - not just the shot. Here’s our guide to getting the most out of early dove hunts, with gear, tips, and a few lessons learned from years in the field.
1. Pack Light, but Pack Smart
Dove shoots are warm-weather affairs. Skip the heavy layers and instead think breathable shirts, a good hat, and lightweight boots. A canvas pouch keeps shells close at hand while leaving room for the essentials: ear protection, sunglasses, and a pocketknife.
2. Sit in Style (and Comfort)
It’s true - many hunters swear by an upturned bucket. But a proper field chair makes all the difference on long afternoons in the sun. Look for folding designs that are portable but built to last - something you’ll want on the porch or around the fire long after the hunt.
3. Hydrate & Celebrate
A cooler stocked with water is essential, but there’s also the tradition of sharing a drink once the shooting slows. Our enamelware and glassware sets are made for exactly that moment - a post-hunt toast to the first birds of the season.
4. Respect the Rhythm of the Field
Doves fly fast and low, often in unpredictable patterns. Be patient, pace your shots, and let the birds work back into the field. Remember: the hunt is as much about the time spent with friends and family as it is about limits.
Whether it’s your first dove season or your fiftieth, the joy is in the return - to the field, to the stories and to the moments that set the tone for the rest of the season.