The ultimate custom wingshooting adventure northwestern argentina
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Table of Contents The ADU Experience
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A Third-generation Hunting & Fishing Outfitter
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ADU’s Posada del Cazador
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ADU’s Hunting Programs in the NOA
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Argentina’s Highest Volume Dove Hunts 14 18
ADU Mixed Bag Hunts Additional Sporting Adventures to Combine with ADU’s Programs
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Extended Stays & Non-Hunting Programs
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Booking your trip
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Why Choose ADU?
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Map Key Lodge A Termas de Rio Hondo Hot Springs
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Wine Country C Olive Plantations D Quilmes Ruins E Aconquija Mountain Range
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RD Shotgun Shell Factory
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Airport page 3
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The ADU Experience
Argentina Doves Unlimited (ADU) offers the world’s preeminent dove hunting experience and diverse mixed bag hunts in the beautiful and untapped region of Northwestern Argentina. Imagine shooting limitless doves with the backdrop of the spectacular Andes Mountains - and the option to hunt coveted wild pigeons,
exciting perdiz, and even ducks - from one conveniently located lodge! Both experienced and novice hunters are welcome as well are couples, families, and friends. Groups of six or more hunters enjoy the lodge exclusively, with the added bonus of private single rooms - at no extra cost - if desired.
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ADU is in the unique position of being American - owned and operated by a team that understands hospitality and service - and supported by a knowledgeable Argentinean staff for a truly authentic experience. Our specialty is executing custom trips that cater to the specific needs and desires of each group.
ADU is pleased to work closely with full-service travel agencies that can book every aspect of one’s trip, making travel to and from Argentina effortless, and with four airports surrounding ADU’s lodge, getting to the area is easy.
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A Third-generation Hunting & Fishing Outfitter FIFTEEN YEARS EXPERIENCE IN ARGENTINA
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ADU is led by Rance Rathie, a third-generation hunting and fishing outfitter originally from Montana. Rance has significant expertise in hospitality and destination travel, having worked for and managed several sporting lodges throughout the world over the past two decades.
His experience and management skills are second to none, something guests will appreciate from the first encounter in booking the trip. Rance is pleased to offer new and unique programs to foreign sportsmen.
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ADU’s Posada del Cazador A L I J I L A N • C ATA M A RC A
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ADU’s comfortable, well-appointed lodge features eight double rooms with en-suite baths, allowing the flexibility to offer single accommodations for smaller groups. And since ADU offers a private lodge for parties as small as six, groups of friends can enjoy an exclusive experience and flexible schedule.
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Surrounded by an orange plantation, La Posada offers an intimate experience for small groups and a venue large enough for groups of up to a dozen hunters. The lodge is spread out offering several buildings including three different dining areas where the professional kitchen features a mix of regional cuisine and unforgettable Argentine BBQs, complemented by local wines produced in the region. A traditional courtyard connects each bedroom to the lodge’s great room, offering a comfortable sitting area with fireplace, full bar, tv room, and card tables. In addition, the lodge has a large outside fire pit to gather on warm evenings, a separate pool house with adjoining apartment ideal to use when not shooting, two barbecue houses, and an intimate dining room in the main house.
Ammeneties of lodge
Wi-fi
Regional Foods
Cell Service
Family Friendly
Pool
Couple Friendly
Non-Hounting Activities
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ADU’s Hunting Programs in the NOA TUCUMAN • SANTIAGO DEL ESTERO • CATAMARCA
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ADU operates in the Tucuman, Santiago del Estero, and Catamarca provinces of Northwestern Argentina (NOA). Abundant in birds and unexploited, the NOA is considered the next frontier in destination wingshooting with an eared dove population estimated at over 100 million. Moreover, due to the variable terrain in the NOA region - from mountains to jungle to desert - the area supports much more than just doves. ADU is ideally positioned and licensed to outfit the ultimate custom wingshooting adventure in this new frontier. ADU employs some of the most talented guides in the country who constantly scout the area allowing them to always position guests in the best flyways for doves and to provide exceptional mixed bag hunts when desired. Apart from guides, ADU is outfitted with the best equipment - designed for the purpose - so that guests can enjoy shooting without any inconveniences and have everything they need in the field. Special requests are no problem.
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Argentina’s Highest Volume Dove Hunts Argentina is quite possible the best destination for wingshooting in the world today, but careful planning is needed to enjoy the absolute best shooting. ADU offers an area - without competition - allowing guests to enjoy the best daily options without having to share or compete for flyways. With three separate dove roosts within a ten-mile radius, shooting options are limitless. Doves fly early in the NOA, just about the time the sun is peaking over the horizon, giving hunters more time in the field and more shooting if desired. The afternoon hunts, closer to the roost, are always mind boggling with tens of millions of birds to choose from! Each hunter is positioned with their personal assistant guide in the best locations based on their desires for shooting. Assistant guides are available to load guns, count birds, and assist throughout the hunt. Guides are in constant communication should one have a problem with their equipment or would like to change locations.
ADU ensures a safe hunt - first and foremost and makes sure that each guest enjoys varied shooting throughout their trip, and because the area has varied terrain from rolling hills, wooded areas, fields, roosts, watering holes, each and every hunt is total different leaving guests excited and wondering what the next hunt will bring. Hunters normally shoot 5001000 shells per half-day session on a casual and enjoyable pace. Those looking for the highest volume in shooting can easily shoot more than 1000 shells per session. ADU has 20-gauge Beretta semi-autos on hand for guest’s use, so there is no need to worry about packing more than optional shell bags, shooting gloves, shoulder pads and personal items for the trip.
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High Volume Dove Hunting Sample Itineraries QUICK HITTER - 3 NIGHTS UP TO 6 HUNTS Day 1: Fly in and hunt afternoon Day 2: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 3: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 4: Hunt morning and fly out Price: $1,495 per person
FOUR IS MORE - 4 NIGHTS UP TO 8 HUNTS Day 1: Fly in and hunt afternoon Day 2: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 3: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 4: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 5: Hunt morning and fly out Price: $1,995 per person
RELAXED AND CASUAL - 4 NIGHTS 6 HUNTS Day 1: Fly in, unpack, enjoy afternoon at the lodge Day 2: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 3: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 4: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 5: Enjoy a late breakfast, pack and fly out Price: $1,995 per person
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Millions of doves flying back to the roost provide hot-barreled action in the afternoon!
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ADU Mixed Bag Hunts PIGEON • PERDIZ • DUCK • DOVE
For those looking for more than just the best dove hunting in Argentina, ADU offers mixed bag hunts from mid-May to mid-August. From the same lodge, guests can also hunt decoyed pigeons, perdiz behind trained pointers, and ducks. ADU’s mixed bag programs offer shooters the ability to hunt one (and sometimes two) of these species in the morning followed by
an incredible barbeque and high-volume dove shooting in the afternoon. ADU follows provincial limits on all mixed bag species and guests should expect to shoot as many as 100 pigeons per day, up to 25 ducks, and 7 perdiz. Limits vary depending on province and seasonal availability because mixed bag species are not nearly as prevalent or resilient as eared doves.
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Decoyed Pigeons Decoyed pigeon hunting is unique and ADU offers guests the ability to hunt wild spotted wing and picazuro pigeons over decoys. Guides carefully scout hunting areas in advance because pigeons change feeding areas frequently. Depending on the fields and available shooting space, one or two hunters are placed in each
blind surrounded with a spread of motion and static decoys. Pigeons have incredible eyesight so camouflage clothing and blinds are necessary. Bands of ten to thirty pigeons fly high circling hunters and decoys while looking for a place to land - much like ducks. Wild pigeons are strong hard fliers and are hard to bring down adding to the challenge. 19
Perdiz Three types of perdiz are available in select seasons as a “supplement” to the other hunts, and it is often possible to hunt perdiz after shooting a limit of pigeons because they frequent the same areas. Hunters must be physically fit and able to walk at least one and
up to two miles on flat terrain. A limit of seven peridz will require quick and accurate shooting and good teamwork with pointing dogs. Perdiz are mostly frequently found as singles, but coveys of “copetonas” or “martinetas” can also be found in the area.
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Ducks Ducks are hunted over decoys in the early morning in and around lagoons and a large reservoir in the area. Hunters need to be in their blinds well before first light and have a well-placed spread of decoys. Eight species of ducks, mostly teal, pintails, and whistling
ducks can be bagged in a morning. It is important to note that the drive to the duck hunting area is about one and a half hours from the lodge but well worth the drive to enjoy an incredible sunrise and exciting waterfowl hunting! 21
A father and son enjoy exciting early morning decoyed pigeon hunting.
Quick & Mixed 4 nights | up to 8 hunts Day 1: Fly in hunt doves Day 2: Dove hunt morning and afternoon Day 3: Pigeon hunt morning and dove hunt afternoon Day 4: Duck hunt morning and dove hunt afternoon Day 5: Dove hunt morning and depart Price: $ 1,995.00 base rate + $ 200 pigeons + $ 300 ducks = $ 2,495.00
More Mixed 5 nights | up to 10 hunts Day 1: Fly in with choice to hunt doves Day 2: Dove hunt morning and afternoon Day 3: Pigeon hunt morning and dove hunt afternoon Day 4: Duck hunt morning and dove hunt afternoon Day 5: Pigeon and perdiz hunt morning and dove hunt afternoon Day 6: Dove hunt morning or enjoy late check out and depart Price: $ 2,475.00 base rate + $ 400 pigeons (twice) + $ 300 ducks = $ 3,175.00
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Additional Sporting Adventures to Combine with ADU’s Programs RED STAG HUNTING • QUAIL HUNTING TROUT FISHING • DORADO FISHING
Other sporting adventures and extended stays are easily combined with ADU’s hunting programs due to our close affiliation with some of the country’s best travel experts and associations with the best hunting and fishing lodges in the Argentina.
For those that like to fish, “Cast and Blast” trips for wild trout and explosive dorado are highly recommendable during select months, but careful planning must be made to ensure the highest quality fishing to accompany ADU’s world-class shooting.
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Red stag and quail hunting in Patagonia can also be added for those with time on their hands and a desire to see some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. And for those traveling with non-hunters or with spouses wanting more than just a sporting adventure,
extended stays are easily combined to create an unforgettable sporting and cultural adventure to suit everyone. Contact us to learn more about the possibilities.
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From Patagonia River Guides Lodge at Trevelin, guests of ADU have the unique opportunity to combine their high-volume wingshooting program with trophy red stag hunting, exciting quail hunting, and flyfishing for trout during select months.
Guests will enjoy one of the finest sporting lodges in all of Argentina along with experienced guides and unbeatable scenery, and since Rance Rathie also owns and operates the Patagonia River Guides, combing a trip is seamless.
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Thousands of acres of private land, coveys of up to 50 birds, and well-trained pointers await quail hunting enthusiasts, while in the same region, trophy red stag can be stalked in the early morning and into the evening on private estancias. For those that just want to fish or might want to throw a few casts in
between hunts, PRG offers some of the world’s best trout fishing on over a dozen different rivers in the region. Guests interested in putting together an extended stay to hunt multiple species or to fish should contact Rance Rathie for more information, timing, and complete schedules. 27
Red Stag and Quail add-on Program Day 1: Fly to Esquel Airport in Patagonia from Tucuman Airport Day 2: Hunt Red Stag morning and evening quail in afternoon Day 3: Hunt Red Stag morning and evening fishing in afternoon Day 4: Hunt Red Stag morning and evening quail in afternoon Day 5: Hunt Red Stag is necessary in morning and Depart Esquel Airport back home Price of Stag, Quail, Fishing add on: $4,250 + $3,000 for (1) stag Not included are ammo, gun rental or trophy fees.
Quail and Hare add-on Program Day 1: Fly to Esquel Airport from Tucuman Airport Day 2: Hunt quail and hare Day 3: Hunt quail and hare Day 4: Hunt quail and hare Day 5: Depart Esquel Airport back home Price of 4 night | 3 day quail add on program: $3,400 per person Not included in price are shotgun rental or shells.
Trout Fishing add-on Program 4 nights / 3 days fishing: $3,400 5 nights / 4 days fishing: $4,250 Includes: All flies, tackle, rods, reels, waders, lodging (single rooms), food, beverage, license. All-inclusive!
Los Alerces National Park Patagonia Argentina
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Doves & Dorado Exciting dorado fishing can also be combined with ADU’s signature hunting programs. Trips as short as three days fishing are possible and options are available for all skill levels as well as spin and fly fishing. Contact us for more details, complete schedules, and hosted trips.
4 Night | 3 Day Dorado Trips: $2,600
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Extended Stays & Non-Hunting Programs
ADU Non-Hunting Options
Other Extended Stays
At ADU, non-hunters are just as important as the hunters! Our staff offers as much or as little as non-hunters would like to enjoy for the same price as hunters. Non-hunters can choose from several activities in the area with delightful hosts and guides including:
• Buenos Aires Extended Stay • Iguazu Falls • Mendoza Wine Country • Glacier and Andes Tours in Patagonia • Skiing in Patagonia • Scenic Tours in Entre Rios and Salta
• Hiking • Horseback Riding • Cooking Classes • Cultural Tours to Catamarca City • Cultural Tours to Santiago del Estero • Spa Visits to Thermal Hotspring of Rio Hondo Non-hunter price same as hunter with daily activities and guides (2 non-hunters minimum). Non-hunter price without activities is half the hunter price but doesn’t include any transportation or guides. www.argentinadovesunlimited.com I info@argentinadovesunlimited.com
ADU is ideally located and has partners and travel professionals to fulfill exceptional extended stays before or after hunting with ADU. Hunters that have a few extra days or those that might travel with a non-hunter can enjoy other diverse extended stays easily combined with any of ADU’s programs
Guns and Grapes A three-hour drive or a short private flight from ADU’s base of operations lies Argentina’s second most important but most beautiful wine country. Renting a car and driving from ADU’s lodge to wine country is the best way to see lush sugar cane plantations, incredible virgin jungles, high desert, archeological ruins, incredibly colored river gorges, and the beautiful city of Salta. For those that just want to get there, a short private flight is easily arranged as are all your accommodations, guides, and a complete itinerary. There are several estancias and hotels to choose from for accommodation and you just have to let ADU know what you are looking for. At least one night in Salta City is a recommended to enjoy one of the most beautiful cities in South America, folklore music, and regional foods. Simply said, if you are traveling with a non-hunter or spouse, this is a not-to-miss adventure for three to four days.
Guns & Grapes 8 night adventure Day 1: Fly in enjoy afternoon at the lodge Day 2: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 3: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 4: Hunt morning and afternoon Day 5: Enjoy a late breakfast and travel to Cafayate Day 6: Full Day at Cafayate and Ruins Day 7: 3/4 Day at Cafayate and transfer to Salta City Day 8: All day in Salta City Day 9: Fly home from Salta Airport Price: Exact price depends on hotels, guides, transfers. Contact us for an exact quote.
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Booking Your Trip Guests wanting to hunt doves can choose from any month, as dove hunting is consistent throughout the year. Highest numbers of doves are during the coldest months with a good number of migratory birds moving from the cooler southern part of the country. Mixed-bag enthusiasts should plan their trips between mid-May and mid-August. Those wishing to “cast and blast” between May and August. Those thinking about an extended stay or cast and blast trip should refer to the chart below for prime times for those activities.
April May June July August September October November December
ADU Programs Doves Mixed Bag Hunts Add on Programs Dorado Trout Red Stag Quail & Hare Guns & Grapes ADU offers the country’s best shooting from April until December. January, February and March are Argentina’s monsoon season and much of the northern part of the country is extremely hot and humid - a time to be avoided.
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Average High Temp 93 91 86 80 74 68 69 75 80 86 90 93 Average Low Temp 69 67 64 58 52 44 42 44 50 58 64 67 Precipitation (in) 5,33 4,38 3,28 1,46 0,66 0,24 0,15 0,18 0,54 1,31 2,66 3,78
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Booking is easy • • So, how easy is it? • • •
What we provide
Step 1: Pick your dates (Our U.S.A. booking office will forward complete pre-trip travel info package.) Step 2: Work with ADU and our agents to book your travel Step 3: Confirm travel and dates Step 4: ADU's U.S.A. office will send invoice for 50% deposit Step 5: Book your flights and send in deposit
• Lodging • All food • All beverage including: beer, wine, liquor • Assistant guide per hunter • Airport shuttle • Local Transportation • Private access fees • Free professional travel assistance to book your trip
Extra Costs • Shotgun Rental $75.00 per day per gun Not Provided • Shells: $13.00 per box • Decoyed Pigeons: $200 / per day • Perdiz: $200 /per day • Ducks: $300 / per day • Gratuity for gudes and staff • Single Rooms: $150 per night • Hunting License: $100 • Does not include any travel related expenses such as: airfare, hotels, guides, personal shopping, or transfers in Buenos Aires
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Why Choose ADU • We are American owned and operated, coupled with the most experienced Argentine staff – the ideal combination; • Our area offers the best of unlimited dove hunting in Argentina without competition for flyways or ranches; • ADU is located in the charming Northwest of Argentina providing a unique experience; • ADU’s guides and staff are professional, fun, and ensure hunters enjoy every aspect of their stay; • ADU offers high-volume and mixed-bag hunts from the same lodge; • The program is “authentic” with incredible barbeques, comfortable lodging, and Argentine charm; • Our area offers 4 airports within 1 to 1 1/2 hours for easy access and several flight choices; • We have full-service travel agents and complete pre-trip information packets to assist you in every step of the booking process; and • We personally host and handle every trip so you aren’t sold anything we can’t deliver.
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Join us in Argentina! We welcome you for an exciting and fun hunting trip in beautiful and welcoming Northwestern Argentina. We are ready to share our well-executed hunting programs, delicious meals, signature service, and comfortable lodge with you and your friends. We are a small company offering each and every guest personalized service with an understanding of the importance of every customer’s complete satisfaction. If you have never been to Argentina, we’ll work with you to design the trip of a lifetime. If you have hunted in Argentina before and may be looking for “something” different, let us know what that “something” is and we’ll work with you to provide a different experience in our exciting new frontier. Contact us today for a quick three-day hunt to avoid the heat of summer and to enjoy the some of the world’s best shooting. If you have a little more time and want to experience more of Argentina, remember we specialize in designingcustom trips made for each sportsman. Be sure to ask about family trips, couples trips, celebratory trips, corporate events, exclusive lodge bookings, or something different altogether. Contact us today for more information and to book your hunting adventure. We look forward to talking to you and sharing information about our exciting wingshooting programs. Shoot Straight, Julio Perez, Travis Smith, Adolfo Alonso, Rance Rathie The ADU Team
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U.S.A. BOOKING OFFICE
U.S.A. Phone: (888) 824-5420 or (214) 219-2500 2416 McKinney Ave | Dallas, TX 75201 Inquiries & General Info: info@argentinadovesunlimited.com David Leake: david@argentinadovesunlimited.com | david@tailwatersflyfishing.com Danny Sullivan: danny@argentinadovesunlimited.com | danny@tailwatersflyfishing.com
The ultimate custom wingshooting adventure northwestern argentina R a n c e R at h i e ( O w n e r )
Argentina Phone: 011.54.9.2945.548353 Email: rance@argentinadovesunlimited.com Email: argentinadovesunlimited@gmail.com Skype: rancerathie page 36