I just returned from Nicaragua and witnessed the best duck hunt I have ever experienced in all my years of hunting, and it was not even peak season! Nicaragua is a diverse Central American country which offers sportsmen a chance at combining some of the best blue-winged teal shooting with sporting dove shooting from the same location.  During my most recent trip I had the opportunity to visit three outstanding venues utilizing the best that Nicaragua has to offer; Managua, Chinandega and Heli-Hunts.

From my perspective the Chinandega Hunt appeals to those who are serious about their duck hunting and want to be in a more rural setting. This agricultural region in the northern part of the country features incredible waterfowl shoots in large fresh water lagoons that are exclusive to our hunting groups. It is doubtful you will find a more spectacular setting than an early morning sunrise against the backdrop of the moldering San Cristobal Volcano. I found the dove shooting in Chinandega is consistent and offers both white-winged and mourning doves. The accommodations where we stayed was at the beautiful Villas de Cortijo and is the best in the region.  Each spacious villa has two bedrooms (single occupancy) with private baths, A/C and a common living and kitchen area. We had private meals in the dining room and full access to the bar and swimming pool. Meals are local fare with steak, seafood and international cuisine.

The hunt in Managua took place from the beautiful and well located Camino Real Hotel. The private fresh water lagoons are within a 45 minute drive and offer steady morning duck hunts and then we break before heading out in the afternoons for excellent white winged bags in the rice and sorghum fields.  The hotel features several dining options, large swimming pool, and a huge casino.  If you like you hunting near a vibrant and safe city and all its options, the Managua Trip will suit you well.

The Heli-hunt is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I enjoyed every minute of it.  This hunt is extremely unique as a helicopter whisks you from Managua International Airport straight to the ultra exclusive Puesta del Sol Resort on a beautiful lagoon leading to the Pacific Ocean. Each morning, you and two of your buddies take to the sky in Robinson R-44 choppers that in minutes will have you sitting in the airboat for your short run to the duck blinds. This exclusive hunt is the perfect trip for those who want the best accommodations and duck hunt in Central America without the traveling to and from the lagoons. Here you will find a lap of luxury hidden from the rest of the world but at your disposal.  Lobster, shrimp and fresh fish are always on the menu. Riding horseback while the sun sets on the Pacific Ocean is a must do here!! This is a place a non-shooting companion would love.

I highly recommend Nicaragua as being the premier bird hunting destination worldwide. Thankfully , my guides from Trek International Safaris ensured my travels we safe, affordable, and fun.  Thanks Trek!  I am sincerely looking forward to my next hunting adventure.

 

Steve M

 

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