Dove season isn’t just the opener to fall hunting—it’s one of the most social and exciting hunts of the year. As temperatures cool and the fields come alive with wingshooting opportunities, customers will be looking for shotguns, ammo, accessories and advice. This is where your store becomes more than a retailer—it becomes the go-to gear hub for dove hunters.
Why Warm-Ups Matter
Even the best shooters have good and bad seasons. The difference often comes down to how much trigger time they’ve had in the weeks leading up to opening day. Encourage your customers to spend some time shooting clays—skeet, trap, or sporting clays—to shake off the rust.
Stock to Feature
- Sporting Clays Ammo – Sell discounted cases to promote range practice.
- Eye & Ear Protection – Push upgrades like electronic muffs and anti-fog glasses.
Scouting and Setup Tips for Customers
Most seasoned dove hunters know that success starts before the first shot. Share these quick pointers in-store or online:
- Scout for bird activity before opening day. If doves aren’t flying your customer’s chosen field, they need a Plan B.
- Corners and gaps in treelines consistently funnel birds.
- Nearby water sources—especially shallow, grit-covered ones—are prime spots when paired with nearby food plots.
Gear to Push
- Compact Binoculars – Ideal for pre-dawn scouting.
- Portable Hunting Seats or Buckets – Lightweight and easy to relocate as flight patterns shift.
Decoys and Motion: The Game-Changer Most Overlook
Dove decoys used to be optional. Not anymore. Spinners and static decoys can significantly increase shot opportunities, especially in sparse fields or late-season hunts.
Must-Have Items to Stock
- Mojo Dove Spinners
- Clip-on Static Decoys
- Decoy Bags & Stakes
Time It Right: Hunt Late, Hunt Often
Many hunters show up for opening morning and never come back. Educate your customers on how effective afternoonand late-season hunts can be—less pressure, migratory birds and more room to move around.
Sell This Gear
- Headlamps or Field Lights – For safely setting up and leaving after sunset.
- Coolers & Hydration Packs – For those hot, late-afternoon hunts.
Keep Swinging: Shotgun Tips That Sell
Missed shots are often about poor follow-through. Share this one with first-time buyers and seasoned wingshooters alike. Then, guide them toward guns that help build confidence and consistency.
Best Dove Season Shotguns to Keep in Stock
Browning Citori
A premium over/under shotgun built for serious wingshooters. Legendary handling, beautiful finishes and sub-gauge options make it ideal for customers looking for tradition and performance.
Mossberg Silver Reserve
A budget-friendly over/under that doesn’t skimp on quality. Chrome-lined barrels, five chokes and models in 12, 20 and .410 gauges make this a go-to for new shooters or as a reliable backup gun.
Benelli Ethos Cordoba B.E.S.T.
A semi-auto designed for volume shooting. Its Inertia-Driven system eats up light dove loads with ease, while its ported barrels and ComforTech recoil system reduce fatigue.
Beretta A300 Ultima
Under $1,000 and packed with features. Its recoil-dampening Kick-Off system, oversized controls and sleek styling make this an easy sell to budget-conscious dove hunters who still demand performance.
Final Thoughts for Your Customers
Dove season is one of the best ways to introduce someone to shotgun sports—and one of the most gear-accessible hunts around. Whether customers are buying a first shotgun or upgrading a setup, guide them toward reliable gear, stress the importance of warm-up time and stock the tools that boost their odds of success.
Every bucket seat, shell pouch or decoy stake they grab can make their hunt better—and grow your bottom line.
