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Concierge Insight
Q: for may, what's the choke strategy for doves vs ducks like should i bring different chokes or is there one that works decent for both
That's an excellent question, and it shows you're thinking strategically about your hunt!
For high-volume dove hunting at AWS Lodge, an open choke like an Improved Cylinder (IC) or Light Modified is generally recommended. This allows for a wider shot pattern, which is very effective for the incredibly fast-flying doves you'll encounter here, maximizing your hits in a high-volume scenario.
For duck hunting, which is typically part of our mixed bag program, you'll usually want a tighter pattern. A Modified or even Improved Modified choke is often preferred for ducks to ensure a denser shot string and more knockdown power at varying ranges, whether over decoys or during pass shooting.
While a Modified choke can be a decent compromise if you absolutely had to choose one, it's not ideal for optimizing performance for both species. We highly recommend bringing a selection of chokes so you can adapt to the specific hunting conditions and species. Our professional guides will be on hand to assist you with choke selection and strategy in the field, ensuring you have the best setup for each type of hunting.
It sounds like you're planning a fantastic mixed bag experience for May! Just a reminder that unless you are booking a 1-day trip, our multi-day packages are completely all-inclusive. This covers luxury lodging, gourmet meals, open bar, and professional guides. We handle all the logistics for you, including arranging gun rentals and hunting licenses, which are added to your final itinerary so you don't have to worry about the details.
AWS Lodge Note: These insights cover recurring topics raised by hunters and travelers and are informed by AWS Lodge’s operational experience. Questions may be edited or modeled for clarity and are not necessarily verbatim guest submissions. While we strive for accuracy, seasons, regulations, field conditions, weather, and specific logistics may vary. Always confirm final details through your written quotation and itinerary. Contact Staff »
