Quick Answer
For late afternoon dove hunting sessions, aim to arrive at your field 30-45 minutes before sunset, when birds typically start returning to roosts. Look for areas with scattered trees, shrubs, or crops that provide cover and food for doves. Use a combination of decoys and calling to attract birds to your location.
Scouting and Field Selection
When selecting a field for late afternoon dove hunting, look for areas with a mix of open spaces and cover, such as scattered trees, shrubs, or crops. These areas provide doves with a place to forage for food and escape predators, increasing their likelihood of visiting the area. Consider fields with a history of dove activity, such as those adjacent to roads, railroads, or bodies of water.
Decoy Spread and Calling
Place decoys in a scattered, natural-looking pattern, rather than in a neat row, to mimic the way doves land in a field. Use 2-3 decoys per 10 yards of shooting area, and position them 10-15 yards apart to create a sense of depth. Use a dove call to attract birds to your location, starting with a series of 3-5 soft, low-pitched coos to signal the presence of a female dove. Follow up with a series of 3-5 loud, high-pitched yips to signal the presence of a male dove.
Shooting Technique
When shooting doves in late afternoon, aim for a spot 6-8 feet off the ground, where birds typically land to roost. Use a shotgun with a modified choke to increase the spread of shot, and aim for a kill zone that is roughly 2-3 inches in diameter. Take your time when shooting, as doves can be skittish and may not hold still for long, and be prepared to follow up with additional shots as needed.
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