Dove & Migratory Birds
Missouri Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Missouri. Missouri provides excellent mourning dove hunting opportunities. Hunting license and HIP registration required.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$19.00
Small game/hunting license + HIP required.
Non-Resident
$90.00
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 Missouri
Dove: Sept 1 – Nov 9 and Nov 22 – Jan 14
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Missouri Dept. of Conservation.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Missouri
1
Purchase a Missouri Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $19.00 applies. Purchase through Missouri Dept. of Conservation 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 9 and Nov 22 – Jan 14 Always confirm current season dates with Missouri Dept. of Conservation before hunting.
Requirements
Missouri Migratory Bird Requirements
Missouri hunting license + HIP.
Source: Missouri Dept. of Conservation (mdc.mo.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually - always confirm with Missouri Dept. of Conservation and USFWS before hunting.