Argentina - Golden Dorado

The Fishwest team is excited to announce our newest trip offering. Explore the captivating world of the golden dorado, a prized inhabitant of South America's tropical waters. From the serene marshes and tranquil lagoons to the meandering streams and powerful rivers, these magnificent predators thrive in diverse environments, promising unique and exhilarating fly fishing experiences.

Collaborating closely with SET Fly Fishing, we are proud to facilitate an unforgettable angling adventures for enthusiasts worldwide. With access to three distinct lodges dedicated to the pursuit of the golden dorado, each boasting its own charm and allure, the partnership promises unparalleled opportunities for exploration and discovery.

The Golden Dorado Experience offers anglers the chance to embark on a journey spanning two lodges within a single week, ensuring a diverse array of landscapes and fishing conditions to satisfy every adventurer's craving for excitement and tranquility. Whether navigating through marshy channels or casting into the swift currents of rivers, participants are assured an unforgettable fusion of adrenaline and serenity under the guidance of seasoned experts.

What’s Included

All lodging with A/C rooms as described on the itinerary, All meals, beer and wine , Full-time guide and coordinator during the trip, All charter flights and local ground transfers, All the special services described on the itinerary, Fishing license, all flies

What's Not Included

International Flights, Any Buenos Aires expenses – hotels, meals, transfers, etc, Laundry, Gratuities

2024 Guided Fly Fishing Pricing
(based on double occupancy, includes charter and license)

6 nights / 7 days

$8,350

Contact Us For More Information:

(435) 783-6791

The Location

The areas you will be fishing are arguably the friendliest and safest areas in all of Argentina, where the people are warm and engaging. It is important to remember, however, that you are traveling in South America and should use “common traveling sense” at all times as you would in any big city around the world.

Argentina is an immense and stunning land that incorporates every possible type of climate, altitude and landscape you can imagine. It forms the eastern half of South America's long, tapering tail. It's a big country — the eighth largest in the world, and the second largest on the South American continent. It borders Chile to the west (separated by the Andean Cordilleras range) and Uruguay, Paraguay, Brazil and Bolivia to the north and east (separated by rivers). Everyone you'll meet will be happy to share anecdotes celebrating the recently won FIFA world cup, yearned for more than 30 years lead by beloved Messi, the GOAT!

Remember that in the southern hemisphere the seasons are the opposite of those in the northern hemisphere. During the Argentine summer season (early December to early April) temperate climatic conditions prevail throughout most of the country, except for the subtropical regions in the north.

For the golden dorado operations summer is very warm and humid due to its subtropical location. December through March, average daytime temperature will be over 25oC (76oF) to mid 30oC (90oF) and 25oC (low 80o’s F) at night. There can be daytime temperatures over 37oC (100oF) but those are exceptions.

The Accommodations

The accommodations will depend on the two locations you choose for your trip.

At Jetu'u Lodge, Featuring four cozy double bedrooms and inviting communal spaces, the house offers a tranquil retreat. Its swimming pool provides a refreshing respite after a day under the warm sun, perfect for anglers seeking relaxation. With boats conveniently located just steps from the rooms, there's no need for transfers, allowing guests to swiftly embark on short boat rides to prime fishing spots, maximizing their time on the water.

At La Alondra’i, a reconditioned colonial house in the heart of the Ibera Wetlands, guests are treated to a pampering experience amidst peaceful surroundings and superb cuisine. The lodge boasts four comfortable air-conditioned rooms, each with two double beds and en suite bathrooms, alongside unique communal areas where the past and present blend seamlessly. An enclosed courtyard offers privacy and relaxation, while two distinct dining areas serve breakfast and dinner. Adding to the charm, a small chapel within the courtyard reflects the town’s colonial heritage. Recently, an outdoor swimming pool has been added for guests’ enjoyment. Moreover, visitors have the opportunity to overnight at satellite properties within the marsh, allowing for extended exploration and the chance to fish different sections daily, offering a truly unique experience of this wild natural reserve.

Itati Lodge, Nestled atop a hill with stunning views of the upper Parana River, this secluded lodge is an ideal destination for anglers seeking large golden dorado. With a maximum capacity of 10 guests per week, it offers privacy and exclusivity. Alongside comfortable living quarters, the lodge features a spacious clubhouse complete with a dining room, fully stocked bar, video center, and outdoor patio with a fire pit, providing the perfect setting to relax and share tales of the day's adventures with fellow guests.

The Food

On a golden dorado fly fishing trip with SET Fly Fishing in Argentina, you can expect a delightful array of culinary delights that showcase the region's flavors. From traditional Argentine barbecue (asado) featuring succulent grilled meats to fresh seafood dishes highlighting the local catch, there's something to tantalize every palate. Expect to savor empanadas filled with savory fillings, hearty stews like locro, and delicious desserts such as dulce de leche treats. Additionally, you may enjoy sampling regional specialties like choripán (sausage sandwich) and mate, Argentina's beloved herbal tea. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and expertly prepared meals, your dining experience will be as memorable as your fishing adventures.

The Fishery

The Golden Dorado Experience allows anglers to combine 2 out 3 locations in their week long experience. Its broken down as follows:

Jetu’u (Also known as #Action)

  • Fishing the Ysoro Marsh + Mid section of the Parana River.
  • Plenty of 2-6lb golden dorados and chances for bigger fish on the main river.
  • 6wt rod for marsh | 8wt rod for river
  • No camps
  • Other fish opportunities include vampire fish, piranha and pacu

Alondra’s (Also known as #Wild)

  • Fishing the Ibera Wetlands
  • Average 4-15lb golden dorados with chances for even bigger fish
  • 8wt rod
  • 3 camps inside the marsh
  • Other fish opportunities include piranha

Itati Lodge (Also known as #trophy)

  • Fishing the upper section of the Parana River
  • Average 15-25lb golden dorados and chances for +30lb golden dorados
  • 6wt rod for omnivorous species | 8wt rod for golden dorado
  • No camps
  • Other fish opportunities include pacu and pirapita

The Tackle

RODS, REELS, LEADER & TIPPET:

  • Golden Dorado Rods = 8wt 9' (Remember to bring a backup!)
  • Pacu and Pirapita Rods = 6wt 9'
  • Reels loaded with 150 yards of 30 pound backing
  • Lines for the upper parana:
    • 1 - weight forward tropical floating line, and one tropical
    • 1 - intermediate or intermediate tip line
  • Lines for the Ibera wetlands:
    • 2 weight forward tropical floating lines (WFF).
      • one for surface patterns
      • one for streamers
  • Leader Material = 0.7mm/0.0275 inch AND 0.6mm/0.0236 inch monofilament (NOT fluorocarbon). This is roughly 30 and 40 pound (15 and 20kg) saltwater or hard mono material.
  • 40 lbs Wire Bite tippet for golden dorado, and 30 lbs wire bite tippet for pacu and pirapita.

FLIES:

  • Large saltwater deceiver with chain eyes (black, yellow, red, purple and green)
  • Popper
  • Titanic
  • Crease flies
  • T-walks
  • Mice