Dove & Migratory Birds
Wisconsin Dove & Migratory
Bird Permits 2026
Complete requirements for hunting doves, woodcock, snipe, and other migratory birds in Wisconsin. Wisconsin offers mourning dove and woodcock hunting. A small game license covers both species.
HIP Required
Dove Season Open
Woodcock Season
2026 Permit Quick Facts
Verified 2026
State Fee
$20.00
Small game license + HIP required.
Non-Resident
$60.00
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 Wisconsin
Dove: Sept 1 – Nov 29; Woodcock: Sept–Oct
Season dates are set annually by USFWS. Always confirm current dates with Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources.
Step-by-Step
How to Get Licensed for Dove Hunting in Wisconsin
1
Purchase a Wisconsin Hunting License
A valid state hunting license is required for all migratory bird hunting. An additional state migratory bird fee of $20.00 applies. Purchase through Wisconsin 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 29; Woodcock: Sept–Oct Always confirm current season dates with Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources before hunting.
Requirements
Wisconsin Migratory Bird Requirements
Wisconsin small game license + HIP registration.
Source: Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources (dnr.wisconsin.gov).
Requirements verified 2026. Season dates are set annually — always confirm with Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources and USFWS before hunting.