Dove & Migratory Birds

Delaware Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026

Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Delaware. Delaware offers mourning dove hunting with HIP registration required. Woodcock hunting is also available in the fall.

HIP Required Dove Season Open Woodcock Season

2026 Permit Quick Facts Verified 2026

State Fee

$17.00

Hunting license required; HIP free.

Non-Resident

$35.00

Hunting license + HIP

Daily Bag Limit

15 mourning doves; 3 American woodcock

Federal maximum

HIP Required

Yes (Free)

Complete at license agent

Season Dates

2026 Migratory Bird Season in Delaware

Dove: Sept 1 – Nov 30 and Dec–Jan; Woodcock: Oct–Nov

Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife.

Step-by-Step

How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Delaware

Purchase a Delaware Hunting License

A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $17.00 applies. Purchase through Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife online or at an authorized license agent.

Complete Free HIP Registration

HIP registration is free and quick — answer a brief survey about last year's migratory bird harvests. This is typically completed when purchasing your hunting license at a license agent or online. You must have a valid HIP registration number before hunting doves or other migratory birds.

Check Season Dates & Bag Limits

Dove season dates are set annually by USFWS. Daily bag limit: 15 mourning doves; 3 American woodcock. Dove: Sept 1 – Nov 30 and Dec–Jan; Woodcock: Oct–Nov Always confirm current season dates with Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife before hunting.

Requirements

Delaware Migratory Bird Requirements

Delaware hunting license + HIP registration required.

Source: Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife (dnrec.alpha.delaware.gov). Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually — always confirm with Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife and USFWS before hunting.

Delaware