Dove & Migratory Birds
Minnesota Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Minnesota. Minnesota offers mourning dove hunting across the state. Season begins September 1.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$26.00
Small game license covers dove; HIP free.
Non-Resident
$73.00
Hunting license + HIP
Daily Bag Limit
15 mourning doves; 3 woodcock
Federal maximum
HIP Required
Yes (Free)
Complete at license agent
Season Dates
2026 Migratory Bird Season in Minnesota
Dove: Sept 1 – Nov 14; Woodcock: Sept–Oct
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Minnesota
1
Purchase a Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 woodcock. Dove: Sept 1 – Nov 14; Woodcock: Sept–Oct Always confirm current season dates with Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources before hunting.
Requirements
Minnesota Migratory Bird Requirements
Minnesota small game license + HIP registration.
Source: Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources (www.dnr.state.mn.us).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually — always confirm with Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources and USFWS before hunting.