June, 2014: The city of Cordoba is in the geographical center of Argentina, about 450 miles northwest of Buenos Aires. It is the second largest city in Argentina. By the time you hit the outskirts of town, it becomes obvious that this region is dedicated to farming. The primary crops are sorghum, maize and soybean – the top three treats of every dove’s “wish to feast” list.
The rolling hills surrounding the vast agricultural fields and forests provide an ideal roost for doves. We have sent hunters to this region for over 25 years and dove populations have been incredibly consistent and reliable. Our customers who travel here year-round consider this area to be the best dove shooting in the world!
We were met at the airport by our Field Manager, Facundo, and transferred just under 90 minutes north to Pica Zuro Lodge. “Facu” is a young and dynamic guide. He had us totally psyched for our next three days of shooting by the time we got to the lodge. This is my third visit to this wonderful property, which is expertly managed and operated by David Denies Wingshooting. The lodge accommodates 14 guns in nine bedrooms all with en-suite bathroom facilities. This elegant, renovated 1920s estancia farmhouse has all modern conveniences. Complementing the comfortable accommodations are terrific cuisine, a pool, game room, hot tub and a masseuse!
This lodge is the ideal place to take a novice shooter. The guides are excellent instructors and Pica Zuro has 12-, 20-, and 28-gauge guns to rent. The volume of birds is unbelievable, which gives clients the opportunity to hone in on those shots that they typically find difficult at home. Experienced shooters are challenged as well, as proven by the repeat clientele that shoots there every year.
Our first days of dove hunting were amazing and I was thrilled that Jeremy was shooting so well. I was also amazed that the dove populations were every bit as good as my prior two visits spanning over 14-years. Pica Zuro remains an icon among the top high-volume shooting lodges worldwide! We hate to have the trip end!
By: Mike Fitzgerald, Jr.
