The first segment of Tennessee’s dove season opens Sunday, September 1st at noon (local time) and runs through September 28th. Hunting times, other than opening day, are one-half hour before sunrise until sunset.
Hunters must have a valid state hunting license and Tennessee Migratory Bird Permit at all times while hunting. Hunters must also have landowner’s permission to hunt on private land.
In addition to the start of dove season, the early season for Canada geese, brant, blue, snow, and Ross’ Geese (light geese) also starts on Sept. 1 and runs through Sept. 22.
Other hunting seasons that open Sept. 1 are moorhens, gallinules, and rails (Virginia and sora) with a closure on Nov. 9.
A short crow hunting season overlaps with the opening week of dove season, Sept. 1-5. (It will resume Sept. 13 through Dec. 20 and hunting is allowed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday only in this segment.)
For regulations and daily bag limits refer to the 2024-25 Tennessee Fishing, Hunting and Trapping Guide on the TWRA website. The Guide can also be viewed on the TWRA App, or a copy may be obtained at any TWRA regional office or license vendor.