By Bobby Dale Welch/Staff Correspondent
My dad started taking me dove hunting early on. It was fun and there was usually a good bit of action. Pay attention, because the North Alabama dove season opens earlier than usual this year. Opening day is September 5 at noon. From September 6 to October 25, you can hunt from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. This is a great opportunity to introduce someone young or old to hunting. Make sure you have your license and your HIP stamp.
I have enjoyed many days in the field with friends shooting doves. It is a lot of fun and enjoyable. It also provides some good eating if you know how to cook ‘em!
Dove season is the first opportunity to get outside and have some hunting fun. Think about those good days hunting doves in Bama and invite someone to go with you. Some folks haven’t had the same opportunities as some of us, and we should always be looking for a chance to introduce someone to our sport.
Don’t forget that when a bird is headed for your friend’s position, yell “over!” When they miss yell “NOT even close!” Keep those guns pointed in a safe direction and remember to keep ‘em moving as you pull the trigger. Those doves can be a little tricky.
Bobby Dale Welch was born and raised in East Gadsden and graduated from Litchfield High School in 1988. He is the founder of and partner in BD Welch Construction and currently lives in Ashville with his wife Tracie and sons Daniel and Dawson. He may be contacted at bobbyd@bdwelch.com.