With dove season now open, many hunters are geared up for one of hunting’s most enjoyable pursuits. And since these winged rockets are one of the toughest birds to connect on and can humiliate even the best shots, here are some tips to help you put more birds in your game vest this season.

Gearing up

When it comes to guns and ammo, a few different variations will work. Most hunters use 12- or 20-gauge shotguns, and either will work just fine. The 20 will kick less, however, and after a day of shooting, that will be a welcome difference. A 20-gauge or even the lighter 16- and .410-gauge shotguns are prime options for youngsters.

As for shot shell sizes, either 7 1/2 - or 8-shot work best, sending a bunch of small pellets into the air. Two three-quarter-inch shells are all you need, and the less expensive low brass shells will also work fine. There is no need to spend a lot of money on shells for hunting doves since you will notlikely be doing a lot of shooting and besides, it doesn’t take a lot to bring down a dove anyway – provided you get at least a couple of well-placed pellets.

Choose right choke

While a modified choke will certainly work well just about all of the time and is the best all-around choke, sometimes it pays off to switch things up.

During the first days of the season when the birds are less wary, try using an improved cylinder or even a skeet choke. While these chokes don’t lend themselves to taking far shots, the loose shot pattern covers more area, increasing your odds at connecting on a hard-to-hit dove.

As the season progresses, start using modified or even full chokes to tighten patterns and reach a little farther.

Such chokes are especially helpful in heavily hunted areas where getting birds in close can be tough as the season progresses. A super full choke can produce good results when the birds are extremely wary and reluctant to fly in at very close range.

Taking the lead

Although they may not appear to, doves can fly amazingly fast, and since they don’t look as though they are flying as fast as they really are, most misses are shots that fall well behind the bird. Try increasing your lead on them and your success should go up.

Also, don’t forget to follow through the shot.

Blending in

It is not necessary to wear complete camouflage from head to toe when gunning for doves, but you should at least blend in with your surroundings. Typically, a camouflage or khaki shirt will blend in pretty well with most vegetation this time of year, and is all that you really need.

Camouflage or khaki hats and pants are not a must but may not be a bad idea if you will be sitting in the open.

Hopefully, these tips will help you to take a few more doves this season – and spend a little less money on shells.