For avid wing shooters, hunting for doves and pigeons can be an exhilarating experience. But where are the best destinations to pursue this sport? From Argentina to Africa, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 dove and pigeon shooting destinations in the world to help you plan your next hunting adventure. Argentina dove hunting is the stuff of legends, with Uruguay, Paraguay and Bolivia being arguably just as good.
Top 10 Best Dove and Pigeon Shooting Destinations in the World
Cordoba, Argentina
Cordoba, Argentina is widely considered to be the dove hunting capital of the world. With an estimated 50 million doves in the region, it’s no wonder why. The hunting season in Cordoba runs from March to September, and hunters can expect to shoot anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000 doves in a single day. The terrain is varied, with open fields, wooded areas, and rolling hills, providing a diverse hunting experience. Many lodges and outfitters in the area offer all-inclusive packages that include lodging, meals, and transportation to and from the hunting grounds.
La Pampa, Argentina
La Pampa, Argentina is another top destination for dove and pigeon shooting. With vast open fields and a large population of doves, hunters can expect to shoot anywhere from 1,000 to 3,000 doves in a day. The hunting season runs from March to September, and many lodges and outfitters offer all-inclusive packages that include lodging, meals, and transportation to and from the hunting grounds. In addition to dove hunting, La Pampa also offers opportunities for big game hunting, as well as some exceptional duck hunting… Not to mention the fishing if you happen to be an angler, making it a versatile destination for hunters.
Entre Rios, Argentina
Entre Rios, Argentina is a top destination for dove and pigeon shooting, with an estimated population of over 20 million doves. The hunting season runs from March to September, and hunters can expect to shoot anywhere from 1,000 to 3,000 doves in a day. Many lodges and outfitters offer all-inclusive packages that include lodging, meals, and transportation to and from the hunting grounds. In addition to dove hunting, Entre Rios also offers opportunities for waterfowl hunting and big game hunting, making it a versatile destination for hunters.
Salta, Argentina
While Entre Rios may be the most well-known destination for dove and pigeon shooting in Argentina, Salta offers a unique and unforgettable hunting experience. With stunning mountain views and a diverse range of bird species, Salta is a hidden gem for hunters. The hunting season runs from May to August, and hunters can expect to shoot anywhere from 500 to 1,000 birds in a day. Many lodges and outfitters in Salta offer personalized hunting experiences and can cater to hunters of all skill levels. Don’t miss out on this incredible destination for your next hunting trip.
Uruguay
While Argentina may be the most well-known destination for dove and pigeon shooting, neighboring Uruguay offers a unique and underrated hunting experience. With vast open fields and a high concentration of birds, Uruguay is a paradise for hunters. The hunting season runs from March to August, and hunters can expect to shoot anywhere from 500 to 1,000 birds in a day. Many lodges and outfitters in Uruguay offer personalized hunting experiences and can cater to hunters of all skill levels. Don’t overlook this hidden gem for your next hunting trip.
Paraguay
Paraguay is home to one of the largest dove populations in the world, making it an ideal destination for dove hunting enthusiasts. The country’s warm climate and fertile land provide the perfect habitat for these birds to thrive. With an estimated population of over 50 million doves, hunters are guaranteed to have a successful and exciting high-volume wingshooting experience. Additionally, Paraguay has implemented sustainable hunting practices to ensure the preservation of the dove population for future generations.
Bolivia
Bolivia is home to some of the best dove and pigeon hunting spots in the world. One of the most popular areas for bird hunting is the Santa Cruz region, which boasts a variety of landscapes including forests, savannas, and wetlands. Other top hunting spots include the Beni region, which is known for its large populations of doves, and the Tarija region, which offers stunning mountain views and challenging hunting terrain. No matter where you choose to hunt in Bolivia, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Many of our hunters add a fishing trip for Golden Dorado to when they are there hunting for doves.
Mexico
Mexico is a paradise for dove hunters, with a variety of destinations to choose from. In our opinion, the top 5 spots in Mexico for an unforgettable dove hunting adventure are: La Pila, San Luis Potosi; Mazatlán, Sinaloa; Los Mochis, Sinaloa; Torreon, Coahuila; and Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas.
Africa
If you’re a hunting enthusiast looking for a unique and thrilling experience, dove and pigeon hunting in Africa may be just what you’re looking for. With its diverse landscapes and abundant bird populations, Africa offers a one-of-a-kind hunting adventure. Before embarking on your dove and pigeon hunting trip in Africa, it’s important to understand the different species of birds you may encounter. Some of the most common species include the African collared dove, the ring-necked dove, and the speckled pigeon.
Texas, USA
Where there is agriculture, there are doves, and you can find good shooting in almost every US state, but Texas dove hunting is the king of them all.
Are you ready to experience exceptional hunting for doves?
As you can see, not all destinations are created equal. Are you looking for something closer to home, or do you want to travel for some legendary high volume wingshooting? Lucky for you we have both types of hunts. Whatever suits you, if hunting for doves is on your list, we can help you find it.
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I have to say this was the best upland bird hunting I have ever experienced. To top it all off the rancher whose land we hunted on and his wife invited the entire group on the last morning for a home cooked feast of a breakfast at their ranch house. Finer people I have never met.
Louis Digiovanni
The dove hunting in Mexico was like a video game!
There are literally millions of White wing doves in the areas surrounding the lodge. The dove shooting starts as soon as you get out of the truck and doesn't stop till Jose says it is time to go. I really love the fact that I don't have to hassle with taking my shotgun with me. They have plenty of Benelli shotguns for you to use in both 20 and 12 gauges. They do an excellent job of scouting and know exactly where the doves are and where to put you on the field to get the most action.
Dale Roden
You'll be hooked after you go hunting in South Dakota the first time.
It may take you several more trips to get it out of your system, if you ever do. If you get the chance, have Outdoors International set you up with their SD pheasant hunting lodge. They'll leave lasting impression on you as the hunt was over the top. The food, the lodge and the people are top notch and the trip will not disappoint.
Michael Marbach