When it comes to early season wingshooting, dove hunting in Kansas is hard to beat. The air is still warm from summer, mornings are alive with movement, and the fields hum with the energy of birds in motion. At Bow Creek Ranch Outfitters, we bring that experience to life with guided hunts rooted in tradition, preparation, and personalized hospitality.
If you’re looking for a fast-action hunt to kick off your fall season, here’s what you need to know about dove hunting with us.
Why Kansas Dove Hunting?
Kansas is located squarely in the path of the mourning dove’s southbound migration. Each September, countless doves funnel through the state’s central corridor, drawn to grain fields, sunflower patches, and open pastureland. With its mix of habitat types, western Kansas sees concentrated flights that rival those of any state in the region.
Bow Creek Ranch is ideally situated in the heart of this flight path. We manage a blend of native grasses, ag fields, and roost-friendly terrain—all of which come together to create productive, pressure-free hunts at sunrise and late afternoon.
When You Should Book
The Kansas dove season opens each year on September 1, and the best hunting typically occurs during the first two weeks. Early in the season, birds fly in thick, frantic waves, often just after sunrise when temperatures are cool and winds are light.
At Bow Creek Ranch, our opening week is often fully booked well in advance, so it’s wise to claim your spot early. If you prefer a quieter experience, midweek hunts provide equally strong shooting with fewer hunters in the region overall.
Late-season hunts in mid-September can also be productive depending on conditions, especially for those who enjoy a slightly more relaxed pace.
A Typical Day in the Field
Dove hunts at Bow Creek start early—often before first light—because that’s when the birds move. Our guides scout fields in advance, tracking roosts, flight paths, and feeding activity so you’re in the right place when the first doves begin to flash across the sky.
You’ll be set up in one of our productive zones, which may include:
- Edges of wheat or corn stubble fields
- Pasture transitions
- Tree lines near water sources
We encourage hunters to bring a bucket or shooting stool for comfort, and we’ll help coordinate locations so groups can hunt together or split for better coverage.
Once birds begin flying, expect fast, challenging shots at incoming, crossing, and dipping birds. Some mornings you may reach your limit before breakfast. Other days, you’ll enjoy a steadier pace, with more time between volleys to take it all in.
After the morning hunt, you’ll return to the lodge for a hearty lunch and a chance to relax. Multi-day hunters can take advantage of afternoon flights or enjoy downtime at the lodge.
Lodging, Meals, and Personal Attention
Every dove hunting package includes lodging, meals, and full guide support. Our lodge is located on the ranch and provides clean, quiet comfort for you and your group. Each stay includes:
- A light breakfast before the morning hunt
- A full lunch back at the lodge or in the field
- A hearty dinner featuring home-cooked meals and great conversation
We host one group at a time, giving you exclusive access to the lodge and our full attention while you’re with us.
What to Bring
Dove hunting is fast and gear-light—but the right equipment makes a difference.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Shotgun: 12- or 20-gauge with improved cylinder or modified choke
- Ammunition: Steel or lead shot, No. 7.5 or No. 8 preferred (bring more than you think you’ll need)
- Camo or neutral field clothing: Lightweight for warm mornings
- Boots: Comfortable for walking in grass or over stubble
- Eye and ear protection
- Bucket seat, shell bag, or game strap
- Blaze orange: Not required for dove, but helpful for group visibility
- Kansas hunting license and HIP certification
If you’re unsure what permits are needed, we’ll walk you through it. We’re happy to help first-time hunters or out-of-state guests handle the paperwork.
Book Your Dove Hunt Today
If you’re ready to welcome fall in with wings overhead and a shotgun in hand, we’d love to have you. Our dove season books up quickly, so don’t wait to reach out.
Call us at (308) 212-0100 or email bowcreekranchoutfitters@gmail.com
