PIKE COUNTY, Mo. – Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon today bagged the state limit of 15 doves on the opening morning of dove season.

Nixon hunted on private property in Pike County.

“Hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities are wonderful traditions passed down from generation to generation in Missouri," Nixon said.

A lifelong sportsman, angler and outdoorsman, Nixon has continued to promote hunting and fishing as important activities in Missouri.

The state has increased the capacity of the Share the Harvest program, which allows hunters to donate venison to people in need through the state’s network of food banks. The program now has the capacity to accept up to 10,000 deer annually.