For hunters who crave diversity and excitement, a mixed bag hunt offers the perfect balance. Rather than focusing on just one bird species, these trips combine the thrill of shooting doves, ducks, and pigeons often in the same day. Argentina, particularly the Córdoba region, is one of the few places in the world where this kind of experience is not only possible but also remarkably consistent and rewarding.
At SyC Sporting, we’ve spent over two decades crafting seamless combo hunting trips that give guests the chance to experience everything this bird-rich region has to offer. Here’s a closer look at what makes mixed bag hunts in Argentina such a favorite among sportsmen and women.
What Is a Mixed Bag Hunt?
A mixed bag hunt is a multi-species bird hunting trip, typically organized so hunters can pursue more than one type of gamebird over several days. In Argentina, these combinations often include:
- Dove hunting in the rolling hills and farmlands of Córdoba
- Duck hunting in the nearby wetlands and marshes
- Pigeon shooting in agricultural fields or roosting areas
This format keeps things fresh and engaging, with a variety of shooting styles and terrain challenges packed into one adventure.
Why Córdoba Is Ideal for Mixed Bag Hunts
Few destinations rival the biodiversity and accessibility of northern Argentina when it comes to bird hunting. Here’s why Córdoba stands out:
Year-Round Bird Populations
The region is home to millions of eared doves that breed continuously due to the region’s favorable climate and abundant food supply. These birds don’t migrate, which means dependable dove shooting throughout the year.
Seasonal Wetlands for Ducks
During the Argentine winter (May to August), lowland marshes and wetlands fill with water, attracting a wide range of duck species. From rosy-billed pochards to Brazilian teal, hunters can enjoy a varied bag over decoy spreads at first light.
Abundant Pigeons in Crop Fields
Pigeons flock to farmlands in search of grain and sunflower seeds. These birds tend to move in erratic patterns and offer a great midday challenge between morning and afternoon hunts.
Close-Proximity Hunting Zones
One of the biggest advantages of hunting in Córdoba is the minimal travel time between different environments. In a single day, you can drive from the wetlands for a morning duck shoot, to the fields for midday pigeon, and finish the day in the hills shooting doves without feeling rushed.
The Birds: Dove, Duck, and Pigeon
Each species adds its own flavor to the hunt. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect:
Dove Hunting
Córdoba’s reputation as the dove capital of the world is well-earned. With some estimates suggesting more than 30 million doves in the province, it’s not uncommon to shoot thousands of shells in a single session.
- Shooting style: Pass shooting with high volume
- Time of day: Afternoon hunts are typical
- Skill level: Suitable for all levels; excellent for improving reflexes and accuracy
Duck Hunting
Duck hunts are conducted in the early morning. Guides set up blinds near marshes, with decoy spreads placed to draw in birds at sunrise. Expect a slower-paced, highly rewarding experience.
- Shooting style: Over decoys, from a blind
- Time of day: Predawn to late morning
- Species: Includes rosy-billed pochard, cinnamon teal, white-faced whistling duck, and more
Pigeon Hunting
Though sometimes overlooked, pigeons in Argentina are fast, smart, and challenging. Decoyed over feedlots or roosting areas, they fly erratically and test your instincts.
- Shooting style: Over decoys or pass shooting
- Time of day: Late morning to early afternoon
- Environment: Fields, tree lines, or silos
What a Typical Combo Trip Looks Like with SyC Sporting
At SyC Sporting, our mixed bag packages are carefully structured to balance challenge, comfort, and variety. A sample three-day combo hunt might look like this:
Day 1
- Morning: Arrival and orientation
- Afternoon: Warm-up dove shoot in nearby fields
- Evening: Welcome dinner at the lodge
Day 2
- Early Morning: Depart for duck hunt at the marshes
- Midday: Pigeon shoot near local farmland
- Late Afternoon: Dove hunt at high-volume roost
Day 3
- Repeat or customize schedule based on guest preference
Between hunts, guests return to our exclusive lodge for meals, rest, and camaraderie. From transportation to firearm storage, everything is taken care of so you can focus on the field.
What to Pack for a Mixed Bag Hunt
Packing for a trip that covers multiple environments takes a bit of planning. Here’s what we recommend:
- Shotgun: A reliable 12 or 20 gauge, ideally semi-automatic
- Clothing: Layered gear for cool mornings and warm afternoons
- Waders: Essential for duck hunting in marshes
- Eye and ear protection: Especially important during high-volume dove shoots
- Gloves and hats: Protection from sun and mosquitoes
Don’t worry about bringing too much our lodge provides essentials like shells, stools, and coolers. If you prefer renting firearms or gear, we offer that as well.
Why Mixed Bag Hunts Are So Popular
Hunters from around the world return to Argentina year after year, and combo trips are a major reason why. Here’s what makes them so appealing:
- No downtime: Birds are flying at different times of the day, keeping you active
- Skill diversity: Improve reaction speed with doves, patience with ducks, and tracking with pigeons
- Social aspect: Great for group trips with shared memories and a variety of experiences
The SyC Sporting Difference
With over 20 years of outfitting experience, SyC Sporting is known for personalized service, seasoned guides, and comfort. Our lodge is designed to feel like a second home, complete with private suites, local cuisine, and views of the countryside.
What sets us apart:
- Professional bilingual guides with deep knowledge of the land
- Private access to prime hunting zones
- Flexible itineraries tailored to your group’s goals
- Gourmet meals between hunts
- Smooth logistics, including airport transfers and hunting permits
Whether you’re a solo hunter or coming with a group of friends, we ensure that every trip is handled with care and attention.
Tips for Booking Your Argentina Combo Hunt
If you’re planning a mixed bag trip, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Best season: May through August for ducks, year-round for doves and pigeons
- Group size: Ideal for pairs, families, or groups up to 10
- Travel documents: Valid passport and pre-arranged hunting permits (we handle this)
- Vaccinations and travel insurance: Check with your local travel clinic before flying
Final Thoughts
Mixed bag hunts offer more than just variety they’re an opportunity to fully experience the landscapes, birdlife, and traditions of Argentina. Few adventures deliver the same level of action, camaraderie, and satisfaction in just a few short days.
If you’re ready to plan your own combo hunt, SyC Sporting is here to guide every step. With expert support, rich shooting grounds, and top-tier accommodations, your dove, duck, and pigeon trip in Córdoba is waiting.