Dove & Migratory Birds
Indiana Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Indiana. Indiana offers mourning dove hunting with Central Flyway season dates.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$24.75
Small game license covers dove; HIP free.
Non-Resident
$80.75
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 Indiana
Sept 1 – Nov 29 and Dec 14 – Jan 12
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Indiana Dept. of Natural Resources.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Indiana
1
Purchase a Indiana Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $24.75 applies. Purchase through Indiana Dept. of Natural Resources online or at an authorized license agent.
2
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.
3
Check Season Dates & Bag Limits
Dove season dates are set annually by USFWS. Daily bag limit: 15 mourning doves; 3 American woodcock. Sept 1 – Nov 29 and Dec 14 – Jan 12 Always confirm current season dates with Indiana Dept. of Natural Resources before hunting.
Requirements
Indiana Migratory Bird Requirements
Indiana small game license + HIP.
Source: Indiana Dept. of Natural Resources (www.in.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually - always confirm with Indiana Dept. of Natural Resources and USFWS before hunting.