What size Golden Dorado can I expect?

Average Golden Dorado range from 8-15 lbs (3.5-7 kg), with trophy fish exceeding 25 lbs (11 kg). The world record stands at an impressive 55 lbs 11 oz (25.25 kg). Our waters on the Paraná River system consistently produce fish in the 10-20 lb range, with realistic chances at trophies over 30 lbs during peak season.

What's the best time to go?

The Golden Dorado season runs from September through April. October and March are considered the prime months — October brings aggressive post-spawn feeding, while March offers consistent action before the season closes. Water temperature is the key factor, with Dorado most active when temperatures are between 68-82°F (20-28°C).

What tackle do I need?

For fly fishing, 7-8 weight rods are standard, with 9-weight recommended for trophy hunting. Wire tippet is mandatory — Golden Dorado have razor-sharp teeth that will cut through mono and fluorocarbon instantly. Large streamers (4-6 inches) in bright colors like chartreuse, orange, and white are the go-to flies. The lodge provides all necessary tackle if you prefer not to bring your own.

Is Golden Dorado fishing physically demanding?

Golden Dorado fishing is less physically demanding than Patagonia trout fishing. Most fishing is done from boats (pangas or skiffs) on the Paraná River and its tributaries, so there's minimal wading. The casting can be intense during active feeding periods, but overall it's accessible for anglers of varying fitness levels.

Can beginners catch Golden Dorado?

Absolutely. While experience helps, our guides are experts at putting anglers of all skill levels on fish. Beginners can fish with conventional tackle (spinning or baitcasting) while learning, and many first-time fly anglers land their first Dorado within the first day. The guides provide hands-on instruction and adapt their approach to your skill level.

How do I get to the lodge?

Fly into Buenos Aires (EZE), then take a short 1.5-hour domestic flight to Corrientes. Our team meets you at the airport and handles the transfer to the lodge. The entire journey from Buenos Aires to the lodge takes approximately 3-4 hours including the transfer. We can also arrange Buenos Aires hotel accommodations if you'd like to explore the city before or after your trip.

Angler posing with a trophy golden dorado in Corrientes

FISHING

Argentina's Northern Wetlands

Golden Dorado
Fishing

Hunt the Tiger of the River

Experience explosive strikes and aerial acrobatics in pristine wetlands. One of the world's most exciting freshwater gamefish.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

The Ultimate Experience

What Makes Golden Dorado Fishing Special

Golden Dorado fishing in Argentina's northern wetlands is one of the world's top destinations for aggressive freshwater predators. This vast region offers an experience that combines wilderness and world-class sport.

100%

Wild Fish

55 lbs

IGFA World Record

In the subtropical wetlands of Corrientes Province, the Golden Dorado rules as apex predator. Known locally as “El Tigre del Río” (The River Tiger), this fish offers an experience that goes beyond fishing—combining pristine wilderness with explosive, heart-pounding action.

“The Golden Dorado doesn’t just take the fly—it tries to destroy it. There’s nothing subtle about this fish. It’s pure aggression, pure power, pure addiction.”

Unlike stocked fisheries, Argentina’s Golden Dorado are 100% wild fish, grown in pristine waters with no commercial influence. With average fish running 8-15 pounds and trophies exceeding 25 pounds, this is the ultimate freshwater gamefish experience.

Cast your line in one of Argentina's most vibrant wetland ecosystems. Abundant with native species such as golden dorado, pirá pitá, surubí, and pacú, the waters here offer both challenge and thrill. Our professional guides tailor your trip based on river and seasonal conditions to maximize your catch.

The Angler Company

Golden Dorado Specialists

Where We Fish

The Paraná River

Corrientes Province hosts the majority of Argentina's dorado lodges for good reason. The unique geography where the Paraná meets the Iberá Wetlands creates the highest fish concentrations in South America.

Aerial perspective of the vast Parana River delta in Argentina

Fishing skiff navigating the Parana River waters for golden dorado

Trophy Waters

Aerial view of Golden Dorado Lodge on the banks of the Parana River

PRIME LOCATION

Aerial view of Parana River delta featuring sandy beaches and clear water

DIVERSE STRUCTURE

About

South America's second-longest river is the lifeblood of Golden Dorado fishing. Downstream of Yacyretá Dam, remarkably clear water creates exceptional sight-fishing conditions. This is where giants live—fish in the 15 to 40-pound class hunting schools of sábalo along structure-rich shorelines and expansive sand flats.

What to Expect

The Fishing Experience

Argentina's northern wetlands create perfect conditions for world-class Golden Dorado fishing. Warm subtropical waters (20-28°C) keep these aggressive predators active and feeding throughout the season.

Angler fighting a strong golden dorado in the Parana River

Explosive Action

Golden Dorado are aggressive predators that attack flies with explosive violence. The strike is bone-jarring, followed by multiple aerial jumps—sometimes 8 to 10 leaps per fish. They fight hard and never give up. Expect an adrenaline-filled battle from hookset to release.

Proven Technique

Large streamers (4-6 inches) stripped aggressively trigger explosive strikes. The strip-set is critical—never trout-set these fish. Wire tippet (40-50 lb) is mandatory; their razor-sharp teeth will cut through mono instantly.

Target Feeding Patterns

Golden Dorado follow schools of sábalo—their primary prey. When the massive sábalo migration begins, dorado arrive within 24-48 hours. Our guides track these patterns daily to put you on actively feeding fish in the most productive water.

What It Takes

Boat fishing through channels and marshes—moderate physical demands but intense action. 7-8 weight fly rods are standard. Beginners can catch dorado with proper guidance; experienced anglers can target trophy fish over 20 pounds.

Water Temp

20-28°C

Average Size

8-15 lbs

Trophy Class

20-30+ lbs

Skill Range

All Levels

Where to Stay

The Perfect Basecamp

Our lodge in Corrientes Province sits in the heart of Argentina's premier Golden Dorado territory. Panoramic views of the river, comfortable accommodations, and direct access to world-class fishing waters.

Lodge Exterior

Bedroom

Rustic luxury living room interior design at Golden Dorado Lodge

Common Area

Spacious living room lounge area with sofas at Golden Dorado Lodge

Bedroom

Interior view of the main lodge area at Golden Dorado Lodge

Waters

Panoramic view of the luxury Golden Dorado Lodge and surroundings

Lodge Exterior

Expert Local Guides

Our guides Matias and Lucas grew up in these wetlands. They know every channel, stream, and current. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned angler, they ensure a rewarding experience on the water.

Exclusive Water Access

Guiding, accommodations, all meals and beverages, airport transfers, and fishing licenses included. Focus on fishing, not logistics.

Boutique Experience

Small groups ensure personalized attention. Comfortable accommodations blend charm with modern amenities. Gourmet Argentine food and carefully selected wines.

All-Inclusive

Guiding, accommodations, meals, transfers and licenses included. Focus on fly fishing, not logistics.

Strategic Location

Direct access to the Paraná River and Iberá Wetlands from a single location. Multiple ecosystems, one lodge. This is the heart of Argentina's Golden Dorado country.

Combo Options

Combine Golden Dorado with Patagonia trout fishing for the ultimate 10-14 day Argentine adventure. Or add world-class dove hunting for a Cast & Blast experience.

Your Home Base

Experience the Lodge

Discover the perfect blend of comfort, location, and access to world-class dorado waters.

VIEW FULL LODGE DETAILS →

Timing Your Trip

Best Time for Golden Dorado

The prime fishing season runs September through April, aligning with the Southern Hemisphere's spring and summer. Understanding seasonal patterns is key to maximizing your trip.

SEP

Season Opens

OCT

Pre-Spawn Peak

NOV

Migration

DEC

Summer Heat

JAN

Peak Summer

FEB

Consistent

MAR

Post-Spawn Peak

APR

Late Season

Early Season (Sep-Nov)

The "Piracema" migration begins. Trophy females at maximum weight before spawning. October and November consistently rank as the best months for numbers and size. Water temps 20-25°C.

Summer (Dec-Feb)

Peak heat keeps fish metabolism at maximum. Post-spawn fish feeding aggressively. Best action during early morning and late evening. Spectacular topwater strikes on poppers.

Late Season (Mar-Apr)

Many experienced anglers consider March the absolute best month. Post-spawn fish in prime condition, feeding heavily before winter. Comfortable weather, excellent water clarity.

Essential Guide

Planning Your Golden Dorado Adventure

Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable fishing experience in Argentina's northern wetlands.

Trip Duration

4 Nights

Standard

Our standard program: 4 nights, 3 full days of guided fishing. Perfect introduction to Golden Dorado.

5-6 Nights

Recommended

Extended stay for serious anglers. More water, more opportunities, better chance at trophy fish.

7+ Nights

ULTIMATE

Combine with Patagonia trout or add dove hunting. The complete Argentine fishing experience.

What's Included

All guided fishing with expert guides
Premium lodge accommodations
All meals, beverages, and Catena wines
Airport transfers (Corrientes)
Fishing licenses and permits
Basic tackle support

Getting There

International Flight

Fly into Buenos Aires (EZE)

↓

Domestic Flight

1.5-hour flight to Corrientes

↓

Ground Transfer

Lodge provides airport pickup

What to Bring

Essential Tackle

7-8 weight fly rod (fast action)
Floating tropical fly line
Wire bite tippet (40-50 lb) – MANDATORY
Large streamers (4-6 inches, 2/0-4/0 hooks)
Poppers and sliders for topwater

Personal Items

Polarized sunglasses (essential)
Hat, buff, sun protection
Long-sleeve sun shirts
Lightweight pants
Sunscreen and insect repellent

Target Species

Multi-Species Opportunities

While Golden Dorado is the primary target, the Paraná ecosystem supports several trophy species. The coveted "Paraná Grand Slam" landing dorado, pirá pitá, and pacú in a single trip, is a challenge for dedicated anglers.

Sep-Apr

Golden Dorado

Salminus brasiliensis

The apex predator. Explosive strikes, aerial acrobatics, and unmatched aggression.

8-15 lbs

Average

55 lbs

Record

Sep-Apr

Peak

Angler holding golden dorado trophy fish at Golden Dorado Lodge

Year-Round

Pirá Pitá

Brycon orbignyanus

Powerful fighter with explosive runs and jumps. Part of the coveted "Paraná Grand Slam." Excellent on lighter tackle and will take dry flies. A favorite for variety.

20-26"

Average

35"

Record

Mar-Apr

Peak

Angler casting for golden dorado in the Parana River wetlands

Year-Round

Surubí

Pseudoplatystoma corruscans

The spotted giant catfish of the Paraná. Can exceed 100 lbs. Deep-water dweller that provides an unforgettable battle on heavy tackle. A bucket-list species.

12-16"

Average

22"

Record

Jan-Feb

Peak

Releasing a golden dorado after a successful catch in the Parana

Year-Round

Pacú

Piaractus mesopotamicus

Strong, wary, and notoriously difficult to hook. This vegetarian powerhouse completes the Grand Slam. A technical challenge that few anglers master on fly.

12-16"

Average

22"

Record

Jan-Feb

Peak

Memories

Photo Gallery

Experience the beauty and excitement of Golden Dorado fly fishing through the lens of our guests and guides.

Ready to Cast?

Golden Dorado, Redefined

Fish Argentina's legendary waters with The Angler Company.

Our team handles every detail—from domestic flights and transfers to lodge reservations. All you have to do is focus on the adventure ahead.

20+

Years Experience

100%

Wild Golden Dorado

5-Star

Guest Experience

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about golden dorado fishing. Find answers to the most common questions from anglers planning their adventure.

What size Golden Dorado can I expect?
Average fish run 8-15 pounds, which are already spectacular fighters. Fish over 20 pounds are caught regularly and considered legitimate trophies. World-class specimens over 40 pounds are rare but possible. The IGFA all-tackle world record is 55 lbs 11 oz, caught by Andre De Button on the Uruguay River in 2006.
What's the best time to go?
October and March are consistently the two best months. October features the “Piracema” pre-spawn migration with trophy females at maximum weight. March offers post-spawn fish in prime condition, feeding aggressively to build reserves. The full season runs September through April. If you can only fish once, target these peak months.
What tackle do I need?
7-8 weight fast-action fly rods are standard. You’ll need floating tropical fly lines, and most importantly, wire bite tippet (40-50 lb)—this is mandatory as dorado teeth will cut through mono instantly. Large streamers (4-6 inches) on 2/0-4/0 hooks are the go-to flies. The lodge can provide basic tackle support.
Is Golden Dorado fishing physically demanding?
Less demanding than Patagonia trout fishing. You’ll fish primarily from boats navigating channels and marshes—no wading required. The main physical challenge is fighting the fish themselves, which can be exhausting but exhilarating. Suitable for anglers of all fitness levels.
Can beginners catch Golden Dorado?
Absolutely. Our guides are experienced at working with anglers of all skill levels. Golden Dorado are aggressive fish that hit hard—the challenge is in the fight, not getting them to strike. With proper instruction on strip-setting and fighting techniques, beginners regularly land quality fish.
How do I get to the lodge?
Fly into Buenos Aires (EZE), then take a short 1.5-hour domestic flight to Corrientes. Our team handles your domestic flight booking and provides airport pickup. The lodge transfer is included. Our Catena Travel Assistance manages all logistics so you can focus on fishing.