Dove & Migratory Birds
Tennessee Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Tennessee. Tennessee offers three dove hunting seasons with excellent agricultural habitat in the western and central parts of the state.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$34.00
Hunting license + HIP required.
Non-Resident
$120.00
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 Tennessee
Dove: Sept 1–Oct 29; Nov–Dec; and Jan segment
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Tennessee
1
Purchase a Tennessee Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $34.00 applies. Purchase through Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency 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–Oct 29; Nov–Dec; and Jan segment Always confirm current season dates with Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency before hunting.
Requirements
Tennessee Migratory Bird Requirements
Tennessee hunting license + HIP required.
Source: Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (www.tn.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually — always confirm with Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and USFWS before hunting.