Unparalled fly fishing for Golden dorado, our favorite freshwater species to pursue on fly. They rock, slamming flies aggressively, jumping like tarpon, they make sizzling runs, have razor sharp teeth, and beautiful coloration. Landing a trophy golden dorado is a truly unforgettable angling experience. And while Golden dorado live in many different areas of South America, this is by far our favorite region to challenge these amazing fish.
Our partners at SET Fly Fishing have custom-designed what we consider to be the best Golden Dorado fly fishing program available. You can enjoy two distinctly unique Dorado fishing environments and lodges in the same itinerary. Short charter flights, starting in Buenos Aires, then between the lodges, and back to Buenos Aires at the end of your trip are included in the program, and make it easy to fish 3 full days at each destination. The program takes a maximum of 8 anglers.
The first location is the famous Iberá Wetlands, staying at La Alondra ’i Lodge, where you can fish endless miles of gin clear creeks, channels and lagoons with private access to this unspoiled and untouched natural environment. The fishery typically produces Dorado ranging in size from 4 to 15 pounds, however, 20+ pound fish have been landed.
The Iberá Wetlands (Spanish: Esteros del Iberá, from Guaraní ý berá: “bright water”) are located in north central Corrientes Province, and is one of the most important and largest fresh water reservoirs in South America. Estimated to be 5,800 – 7,700 square miles, it is second in size only to the Pantanal in Brazil.
Then off you go to the Upper Parana River and Itati Lodge, where you'll have the chance to catch a truly once-in-a-lifetime golden Dorado. Every season, a handful of fish above 40 pounds are landed! This section of the river is the tailwater to the Yacyreta Hydroelectric Dam, which is 90 miles upstream, with clear and stable water conditions - the ideal environment for productive fly fishing with large streamers, mouse patterns, and poppers.
And a brand new third option is now available south of Ibera in the Isoro Wetlands. Staying at the new Jetu'u Casa de Esteros Lodge you can fish the wetlands marsh and the Parana River. Having access to the river also adds numerous species to challenge such as Pacu and Pirata at different times in the season. The first two options are the primary destinations, but this third option is available to substitute for one or the other if fishing is better here at the time of your trip.
The first location is the famous Iberá Wetlands, staying at La Alondra ’i Lodge, where you can fish endless miles of gin clear creeks, channels and lagoons with private access to this unspoiled and untouched natural environment. The fishery typically produces Dorado ranging in size from 4 to 15 pounds, however, 20+ pound fish have been landed.
The Iberá Wetlands (Spanish: Esteros del Iberá, from Guaraní ý berá: “bright water”) are located in north central Corrientes Province, and is one of the most important and largest fresh water reservoirs in South America. Estimated to be 5,800 – 7,700 square miles, it is second in size only to the Pantanal in Brazil.
Then off you go to the Upper Parana River and Itati Lodge, where you'll have the chance to catch a truly once-in-a-lifetime golden Dorado. Every season, a handful of fish above 40 pounds are landed! This section of the river is the tailwater to the Yacyreta Hydroelectric Dam, which is 90 miles upstream, with clear and stable water conditions - the ideal environment for productive fly fishing with large streamers, mouse patterns, and poppers.
And a brand new third option is now available south of Ibera in the Isoro Wetlands. Staying at the new Jetu'u Casa de Esteros Lodge you can fish the wetlands marsh and the Parana River. Having access to the river also adds numerous species to challenge such as Pacu and Pirata at different times in the season. The first two options are the primary destinations, but this third option is available to substitute for one or the other if fishing is better here at the time of your trip.
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Fishing |
The Lodges |
Getting Here |
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Ibera Wetlands - You will fish the “gin clear” waters of endless creeks, channels and lagoons in a unique and untouched natural environment. You will have the fish to yourself, since SET Fly Fishing is the only outfitter permitted to fish the west boundary of the Ibera Wetlands. The fishery offers dorado ranging in size from 4 to 12 pounds, mainly caught on surface flies. It is an incredible angling experience to fish in such a pristine paradise.
Upper Parana River - The Upper Parana offers you the chance to catch a trophy, a truly once-in-a-lifetime golden dorado, in the most stable water conditions. Every season, we land a handful of fish above 40 pounds! Here you will cast flies around structure, such as logs, rocks and sandbars, in search of a huge wild beast. You can also get shots at omnivorous species, pacu and pira pita on dry flies. Isoro Wetlands - A wonderous marh environment that is a product of the overflow of the mid-section of the Parana, and not from rain as in Ibera. Aside from abundant golden dorado you can have shots at pacu and pirata. Despite being a fresh water species, fishing for the Golden Dorado is more comparable to a salt water experience. You will use heavier rods than for trout, larger flies to target bigger fish, and bite wire for final tippet. And in this game, we typically hunt for bigger fish rather than numbers.
In terms of gear - The lodge can provide all gear and flies at no extra cost, but feel free to take you gear if you prefer. We will talk this over with you before your trip, and will send you detailed pre-arrival information with our gear, clothing and other packing recommendations. |
La Alondra'i Ibera Wetlands - You will be pampered at La Alondra ’i while enjoying the peaceful setting and excellent cuisine. This reconditioned colonial house has 4 comfortable air-conditioned rooms each with 2 double beds and en suite bathrooms. An enclosed courtyard offers a great place to relax after spending the day exploring the wetlands. There are two separate dining areas where breakfast and dinner are served. A small chapel located inside the courtyard is another distinctive characteristic that symbolizes the town’s colonial traditions. Recently, an outdoor swimming pool was added for your enjoyment.
Suited for: Anglers, Couples, groups of friends. WiFi available. Optional activities available. Itati Lodge Upper Parana River - Located in a traditional “estancia” on the banks of the River, our air-conditioned lodge provides the perfect balance between secluded wilderness and comfort. Five well-appointed rooms accommodate up to 10 anglers. The lodge also has a large clubhouse with a dining room, fully stocked bar, video center and adjacent outdoor patio that includes a fire pit. Our professional chef, will delight you with a blend of local flavors and international cuisine. The boats are docked just a few steps from your room and a short ride to the fishing action. This provides for a quick easy return to the comforts of the lodge for lunch between fishing sessions. Suited for: Anglers, Couples, groups of friends. WiFi available. Fishing only. Jetu’u, Casa de Esteros Isoro Wetlands - located inside the Stella Maris region, in the heart of the Isoro Marsh, only 30 miles from Goya. The house has four double bedrooms, and comfortable common areas. The swimming pool is a great asset after a long warm day of fishing. The boats are only a few feet away from the rooms, so no transfers are needed, only a few minutes boat ride to the action, which translate to more time in the water. Suited for: Anglers, Couples, groups of friends. WiFi available. Optional activities available. |
By Plane
You need to arrive in Buenos Aires, and spend the night, the Friday night before your fishing adventure begins. The Golden Dorado program starts from Buenos Aires, Saturday morning. We will pick you up at your hotel, and drive you to San Fernando Airport, 30 minutes outside from Buenos Aires, where you will board a Cessna Grand Caravan Executive for up to 8 anglers. From there it’s a 2 1/2 hour flight to your first destination where you will spend 4 nights and 3 full days fishing. You will be greeted on arrival by the lodge staff and your adventure begins. Land Transportation It is also possible to take land transportation to the first lodge, about a 10 hour drive. We don't recommend this unless you want to enjoy other adventures on the way. Travel Notes: We will coordinate your travel from your hometown to Buenos Aires to match up with your fishing itinerary dates. We'll make your international air reservations, arrange your airport greeting, transportation to your hotel, and we'll make the hotel reservation. We'll provide pricing and details on all the air and hotels in advance, then book your preferred options. On the way home, it is possible to arrive from the lodge on the charter, then have us transfer you to EZE International Airport for your evening flight home, arriving the following morning. Or we can arrange another stay in Buenos Aires or elsewhere to continue your fun adventure. |
Trip Details |
Rates |
Plan Your Trip |
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The Golden Dorado program starts in Buenos Aires, Saturday morning. We will pick you up, and drive you to San Fernando Airport, 30 minutes outside from Buenos Aires, where you will board a Cessna Grand Caravan Executive for up to 8 anglers. From there it’s a 2 1/2 hour flight to your first destination where you will spend 4 nights and 3 full days fishing.
Wednesday morning we will fly you on a small Caravan, a 30 minute flight, to our second lodge, to spend your next 3 full days fishing. Saturday morning we will fly you back to Buenos Aires on the Grand Caravan with enough time to connect with your international departure that same evening Day 1: Charter flight from Buenos Aires to the first lodge. Day 2 to 4: Three (3) full day fishing. Day 5: Early morning charter flight to the second lodge (30 minutes). Full day fishing. DAY 6 and 7: Two (2) full day fishing. Day 8: Charter flight from the Lodge directly to Buenos Aires. Normal daily routine - breakfast is served starting around 8 am (coffee is ready earlier). There is a breakfast special and a buffet of cereal, fruit and fresh breads, or you can order something special. Your guides will be ready to take you on the river whenever you're ready. Most guests choose to return to the lodge for lunch, then go out for the afternoon and evening session. You can often fish until dark. Each day when you return from fishing, apre appetizers will be ready, normally outside. Enjoy with your favorite beer, wine, or cocktail, take a swim in the pool, followed by dinner. |
Season for Combo Program: September - October and January through end of May. Maximum of 8 anglers.
Note: Our Golden Dorado combo program offers guests the unique opportunity to fish two completely different destinations in just one week. With three lodges in distinctively varied locations, we have the flexibility to run a highly successful combination program. Also, if you would like to just fish one location, we can arrange that with stays shorter than one week. 7 nights and 6 full days of fishing have a cost of $7,550 per person, double occupancy, with one boat and guide per two anglers. Included in the trip price
Note: It is also possible to book an individual lodge fishing trip instead of the combo. Please inquire for pricing and travel details. Season for La Alondra'i Lodge Ibera Wetlands Only: September through end of May Season for Jetu’u, Casa de Esteros Isoro Wetlands Only: October through mid December, then mid February through May. |
Booking Tips: It’s always best to call us as far in advance as possible to book your trip, especially for high season dates of October and February - April. We are happy to discuss the type of fishing you can expect at any time during the season, and pick the best dates for you, depending on availability.
As a full-service travel agency, TLT will be delighted to assist with all your travel planning - everything from arranging your international flights from your hometown to Buenos Aires, stays in Buenos Aires, or other locations in Argentina, Uruguay or Chile before or after your fishing. And of course we will match up your in-country domestic and charter flights with your customized itinerary. And we always have your back with our 24/7 Argentina concierge services. The Combo Fly Fishing Trip Explained
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