9 replies to this topic

[Air Rifle Hunter]

Well, after finding out in the Cal Regs that I can hunt Eurasian Collared-Doves with my air rifle today (thanks to ShooterJohn for confirming what the Regulations allow to be taken with an Air Rilfe), I made a call, set up a short trip to a nearby place, loaded up the Marauder .22 and headed out to meet my buddy after work. When we got to our destination, we didn't see too much going on, but found a nice spot and sat patiently for a bit keeping an eye on the sun as it was slowly heading down so that we weren't out later than we should be. Finally after seeing some Mourning Doves fly in and out and a few other doves that did not come close enough to take a shot, a Eurasian Collared-Dove flew into our range. Since he's been hunting before, he let me take aim and have first shot. The shot was at about 33 yards and I aimed for a head shot (because the bird would only present it's back to us). I must have moved ever so slightly when I pulled the trigger (I was shooting standing up) because I hit it dead in the neck, immediately below the head and it fell straight down and was dead by the time it hit the dirt. We waited a little longer, but no other shootable doves came back or came in by the dead tree and brush we were near. Oh well, at least I can say I went out on for my first time on opening day and while I didn't get anywhere near my limit, I didn't come home empty handed either. And it was fun and enjoyable to be outside just relaxing with a friend for a couple of hours. Here's a photo of the one bird:  1.jpg   10.07K   11 downloads

[Braz]

Congratulations! Prepare that one for the freezer and keep it until you get a few more. Then enjoy a feast!

[Frank]

Hey, nice job, AirHunter... That was still a difficult shot, a successful hunt, and excellent patience on your part. And all on opening day and without all the crowds. Hard to beat all that...Way to go Frank

[mjc89]

Good job air rifle hunter! One is better than none. Hopefully next time they will come into shooting range.

[HOG]

Nice, again it's all about getting out and the experience. Good shooting.

[sportyg]

nice man, keep at and in no time your have enough for eating

[Bisley]

Congrats, hope you're having a blast doing it. The really great thing about the eurasian is that they are MUCH bigger and fill a plate much faster. Keep up the good work.

[Air Rifle Hunter]

Thanks for the encouraging comments everyone . I had some free time on my hands this afternoon and was hungry. That dove started calling my name... so I cooked up some bacon and kept the grease; fried up the dove and some hashed brown potatoes with a little fresh rosemary and... YUM!  1.jpg   20.97K   11 downloads  2.jpg   22.25K   9 downloads It tasted soooo good! Now I'm craving more! I guess I'll have to find some more time to get out before the season is over. Otherwise... I'll be craving dove until next season .

[fishandhunt4ever]

Well, there is always the second half of the season too.

[ShooterJohn]

Looks good!