Dove & Migratory Birds
Maine Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Maine. Maine offers migratory bird hunting including woodcock, but mourning dove opportunities are limited. HIP registration required.
HIP Required
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$26.00
Hunting license + HIP required.
Non-Resident
$115.00
Hunting license + HIP
Daily Bag Limit
3 woodcock; dove season very limited
Federal maximum
HIP Required
Yes (Free)
Complete at license agent
Season Dates
2026 Migratory Bird Season in Maine
Woodcock: Oct–Nov; Dove: check current USFWS regulations
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Maine
1
Purchase a Maine Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $26.00 applies. Purchase through Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife 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: 3 woodcock; dove season very limited. Woodcock: Oct–Nov; Dove: check current USFWS regulations Always confirm current season dates with Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife before hunting.
Requirements
Maine Migratory Bird Requirements
Maine hunting license + HIP registration.
Important Notes
Maine-Specific Information
Mourning dove hunting is rare in Maine; woodcock is the primary migratory upland bird.
Source: Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife (www.maine.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually - always confirm with Maine Dept. of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife and USFWS before hunting.