09/11/2026
Our first real dove field gave us one heck of a hunt—and taught us more than we ever imagined. 🌾🕊️
This year we grew corn, milo, and millet, with a few sunflowers sprinkled in that the deer ate before they ever had a chance to produce anything. A whole lot of work went into this field, and seeing y’all enjoying it made every bit worth it.
The first 2 hunts were amazing, and the response has meant so much to us. We had a ton of interest and people we couldn’t fit in this year. That’s got us excited to build on what we started.
We already have plans in the works for next year, and the research has already begun. From what we plant to how we manage our habitat and take care of our guests, we’re working to make next year even better for dove hunts, upland birds, and the other species we offer at Horse Swamp Hunting Preserve.
For the dove field, we’re planning more millet, leaving corn out with drought concerns in mind, and working toward adding a sunflower field. Nearby clearing and habitat work should give us room for a few more stations with proper spacing. We’re also exploring land leases to offer more opening-day opportunities.
Giving hunters enough space and making sure everyone feels taken care of have been two of our biggest priorities. We want to welcome more people while continuing to improve the experience from arrival to the last bird of the evening.
Hearing folks call this one of the most well-run dove hunts they’ve attended, or say, “I hope you do this for years to come,” means more than I can explain. Seeing families and friends making memories here is exactly why I wanted to do this.
My goal has always been to give more people a place to hunt while building a business that can keep those opportunities around for years to come. Between your feedback and our 2026–2027 schedule starting to fill up, I’m excited about what’s ahead.
Thank y’all for helping us get this started. We’ve got plenty to learn and plenty of work ahead, and we’re already getting after it. Looking forward to welcoming y’all back and making more memories in the fields of Horse Swamp!