South Carolina Dove Season Is Open: 2026-27 Dates Announced

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources recently announced the opening of Dove season.

SCDNR staff spent the spring and summer preparing public dove fields across the state for the season. Hunters using public fields are reminded that both a Wildlife Management Area permit and a migratory bird permit are required.

The agency is also encouraging hunters to make safety a priority throughout dove season. Participants are urged to follow all hunting safety practices and remain aware of their surroundings while in the field.

The 2026-27 dove season is divided into three segments:

  • Sept. 5 – Oct. 3, 2026
  • Nov. 13 – Nov. 28, 2026
  • Dec. 18, 2026 – Jan. 31, 2027

Public dove fields are available throughout South Carolina, giving hunters access to designated areas managed for dove hunting. Hunters are encouraged to review regulations before heading into the field, including rules specific to public dove hunting areas and general statewide restrictions.

Information about public dove fields, hunting regulations and license requirements is available through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. Hunters can also purchase required hunting licenses and permits through the agency.

The opening of dove season marks one of the first major hunting opportunities of the fall season in South Carolina.

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Patrick Byrne

Patrick Byrne lives in Tega Cay with his wife and two daughters. After 25 years working for a Big 4 bank, he retired to pursue his passion for writing. Additional articles and content can be found on his blog (reverian1776.blogspot.com) and freethepeople.org.

Patrick can be reach via email at [email protected]