Pira Lodge, Argentina
This fascinating fish with its amazing strength should have a greater presence on the world fishing stage. With a superb lodge and stunning wildlife this is a “must do” destination.
The dorado is virtually unknown in the world of fly fishing but it should not be so for long.
The dorado’s fight is legendary. Violently hammering flies, the dorado, once hooked, explodes in trampoline leaps out of the tranquil waters.
The majority of the fishing is sight casting to cruising fish or targeting deeper holes and fast runs from the bow of the boat with a single handed eight or nine weight fly rod loaded with a floating or sink tip line being the ideal choice. Streamers and cockroach imitations are tied to steel trace to prevent a lightning turn of the head slicing the line in the Dorado’s dash for freedom.
This complex fish can be found near confluences, on edges of eddies, riffles, sharp bends in the current, and close to overhanging carpets of water hyacinth. It can be fished in narrow runs, on skinny water, large fish have been hooked in the deep runs, so let your guide show you the multitude of ever-changing locations where you can make contact with these fish.
There are excellent guides who know the waters intimately which is vital as it is such a huge fishery and they use brand new Dolphin Skiffs which are fast and comfortable. Dorado fishing is a combination of bonefishing in Venezuela, big tarpon fishing in Cuba and the mysteries entwined with Atlantic salmon fishing.
Accommodation
Built in a typical Corrientes style, the lodge enjoys a spectacular panoramic view of the vast wetlands. It accommodates up to 10 guests in five large rooms, each with a private entrance, private bath, two double beds and air conditioning.
A separate building, attached by covered galleries, accommodates the spacious living room, bar and dining room, each with tall doors which open up to the wide veranda. The lodge was designed to respect the traditional local architecture while offering all of the comforts of a contemporary hotel.
Unexplored and virtually uninhabited, this region of Argentina, almost three times the size of the Florida Everglades, is a nature lover’s delight and is home to more than 350 species of birds and countless mammals including the capybara; the world’s largest rodent.
A fascinating and luxurious option for a non-fishing partner, this is the perfect add on to any trip in South America. It is also a must for those wishing to experience the cutting edge of fly fishing and pit their wits against a more than worthy quarry.
Other activities include horse riding, canoeing and relaxing by the pool.
The Iberian marsh is incredibly rich in fauna and flora and the lodge staff will be delighted to give a tour pointing out all of the sights and sounds.
