12 Nebraskaland • August-September 2019
PHOTO
BY
JARROD
SPILGER
IN THE FIELD
By Jarrod Spilger
DOVE LOADS
September means dove season to many Nebraska hunters.
It also means stock up on the ammo, because aerobatic
doves can be difficult to hit. The often reported average is
three shells per dove, which personal experience confirms,
although I did manage to bag a limit of 15 doves with 27
shots one rare day last season, for an average of less than
two shells per bird.
Choosing the right ammo can improve your hit rate. While
any shotgun will work, for the sake of economy most hunters
use a 12-or 20-gauge. Target loads are fine, provided velocity
is 1,200 fps or greater. Drop below 1,200 fps and catching up
to speedy doves becomes difficult. Velocities over 1,300 fps
have plenty of speed, but also generate more recoil. A load in
the 1,250-1,275 fps range is a good compromise.
Charge weight can also determine felt recoil. A 12-gauge,
1
1
⁄8-ounce payload has more pellets and denser patterns than
a 1-ounce charge, but also more kick, the effects of which
quickly become cumulative over the course of an afternoon
dove shoot. In 20-gauge, 1-ounce is too much,
7
⁄8-ounce is
good, and
3
⁄4-ounce even better, at least in terms of recoil.
Of course, a 16-gauge, 28-gauge, or .410-bore will also bag
doves, but again economics factors in since the cost of ammo
for these shotguns is significantly higher.
Regarding shot sizes, stick with No. 8 early in the season,
then switch to larger No. 7½ as the season progresses and
birds become wary and shots get longer.
This year, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
challenges you to go hunting, and to take someone new with
you. Whether it's a grandchild, a child, a spouse, a neighbor, a
colleague or a friend, we challenge you to share your passion
with someone you care about. It doesn't matter
if they're brand new to hunting, or if they
just haven't gone in a few years. Take 'em
hunting.
For hunting ideas, turn the page to see
short intro articles on squirrel, frog and
upland hunting, as well as a reminder of
how vital private landowners are to the preservation
of our hunting passions.
For information about rules and prizes, visit
OutdoorNebraska.org/takeemhunting.
