Arizona Dove & Quail Hunting: Getting Ready for the Season

Arizona offers some of the best dove and quail hunting opportunities in the Southwest. From fast-flying doves crossing the desert at first light to coveys of quail holding tight in rugged cover, success often comes down to preparation, patience, and knowing what to look for.

Before heading into the field, hunters should check current Arizona hunting regulations, season dates, license requirements, and applicable bag limits. Conditions can also change quickly in the desert, so plan ahead for heat, rough terrain, and limited access to water.

DOVE HUNTING IN ARIZONA

Arizona dove season is one of those traditions that tells you fall is finally on the way—even when the desert still feels like an oven. Early mornings, fast birds, good friends, and plenty of missed shots are all part of it.

The key is being ready before opening morning. Scout areas where birds are moving between feeding, watering, and roosting locations, and pay attention to their flight patterns. In Arizona's September heat, lightweight clothing, plenty of water, sun protection, and comfortable footwear can make a huge difference during a long morning in the field.

What to Wear for Arizona Dove Hunting

Dove Hunting Gear We’d Bring Along

Dove hunting doesn’t require a pile of gear. We keep it simple: a good vest, sun protection, plenty of water, and a few pieces of gear that make a hot Arizona morning more comfortable. Here are the pieces we’d bring along.

Arizona dove season usually means heat, sun, dust, and plenty of walking. Lightweight, breathable clothing is the way to go. For pants, jeans or durable military-style pants that breathe and won’t tear easily are pretty standard in Arizona. Up top, a lightweight moisture-wicking shirt helps with the heat and gives you some protection from the sun.

For footwear, check out our Gear section, where we cover the boots and shoes we’d wear in the field.

Our Dove Vest Pick

Upland Bird Hunting Vest

I own three of these vests, and there’s a reason I keep using them. They’re simple, lightweight, adjustable, and have plenty of room for shells and the gear I actually need in the field. For around $35, this is an easy vest for me to recommend for dove hunting.

Our Hot-Weather Shirt Pick

MAGCOMSEN Men’s UPF 50+ Hooded Sun Shirt

Arizona dove season can get hot in a hurry. This lightweight long-sleeve shirt gives you UPF 50+ sun protection without adding a heavy layer.

We especially like the built-in hood. Once the sun gets up, that extra coverage around your neck and ears can come in handy. The stretchy fabric also makes it comfortable when you’re moving, setting decoys, or spending a long morning in the field.

Around $20, it’s a simple, affordable piece of gear that makes sense for Arizona dove season.

Our Snake Gaiter Pick

MDSTOP Snake Gaiters

Walking through Arizona desert brush means watching where you step. These adjustable gaiters add an extra layer of protection around the lower legs without costing a fortune.

For around $27, we think they’re a practical addition for dove and quail hunters—especially when you're moving through brush, tall grass, and rocky desert terrain.

It’s one of those pieces of gear you hope you never need, but you’ll be glad you’re wearing if you do.