Dove & Migratory Birds

Washington Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026

Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Washington. Washington has mourning dove and band-tailed pigeon hunting. Hunting license and HIP required.

HIP Required Dove Season Open

2026 Permit Quick Facts Verified 2026

State Fee

$30.05

Small game license + HIP; band-tailed pigeon requires separate federal permit.

Non-Resident

$90.65

Hunting license + HIP

Daily Bag Limit

15 mourning doves; 5 band-tailed pigeons (with permit)

Federal maximum

HIP Required

Yes (Free)

Complete at license agent

Season Dates

2026 Migratory Bird Season in Washington

Dove: Sept 1 – Nov 20; Band-tailed pigeon: Sept–Oct

Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife.

Step-by-Step

How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Washington

Purchase a Washington Hunting License

A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $30.05 applies. Purchase through Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife online or at an authorized license agent.

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.

Check Season Dates & Bag Limits

Dove season dates are set annually by USFWS. Daily bag limit: 15 mourning doves; 5 band-tailed pigeons (with permit). Dove: Sept 1 – Nov 20; Band-tailed pigeon: Sept–Oct Always confirm current season dates with Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife before hunting.

Requirements

Washington Migratory Bird Requirements

Washington small game license + HIP.

Source: Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife (wdfw.wa.gov). Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually - always confirm with Washington Dept. of Fish & Wildlife and USFWS before hunting.

Washington