September means open season for Dove hunting

The first of September is the opening of the first part of our local dove season. I have hunted many types of game birds and water fowl but I think doves are the most challenging targets. The national figures are that out of a box of 25 shells you may take six doves. Their flight is extremely deceiving.

The early season shooting is usually at fast-flying pass-by birds. Later in the season when farmers have cut corn for the silo the birds will be coming into the fields to feed. I always like to select a stand near some trees and wait for incoming birds.

Dove breast served on toast with creamy brown gravy makes a tasty meal. It takes about six birds to make a meal for the average family.

In just a couple weeks archery season for deer will open. I hope all you archers have checked out your bows and your stands. Most archery hunting accidents are because someone fell from a stand. There are many safety harness rigs on the market. Please get and use one.

Best spots for success in the early season involve setting up along trails from bedding areas to feed lots. As the season continues and the rut approaches you need to look for rub lines and scrapes. This is when you may have success with grunt calls or rattling horns. You may need to move your stand nearer to a rub or scrape line.

Early season usually means it is still hot and we all know that deer meat will spoil fast if not cared for quickly. If you have a good ways to travel I recommend that you stop at the first place that sells ice and pack the stomach cavity. This should keep the meat safe for several hours.

Please be careful while hunting.

Remember to get your 2011 license and the signature of the landowner on a written permission slip.