Dove & Migratory Birds
Vermont Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Vermont. Vermont has mourning dove and woodcock hunting. Hunting license and HIP required.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$28.00
Hunting license + HIP required.
Non-Resident
$102.00
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 Vermont
Sept 1 – Oct 31 (dove); Oct–Nov (woodcock)
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Vermont Fish & Wildlife Dept..
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Vermont
1
Purchase a Vermont Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $28.00 applies. Purchase through Vermont Fish & Wildlife Dept. 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. Sept 1 – Oct 31 (dove); Oct–Nov (woodcock) Always confirm current season dates with Vermont Fish & Wildlife Dept. before hunting.
Requirements
Vermont Migratory Bird Requirements
Vermont hunting license + HIP.
Source: Vermont Fish & Wildlife Dept. (vtfishandwildlife.com).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually - always confirm with Vermont Fish & Wildlife Dept. and USFWS before hunting.