Pacu Archives - blog.fishwest.com

Ever dreamed of casting your line for the powerful Golden Dorado? Let me introduce our latest adventure in partnership with Set Fly Fishing: Golden Dorado Fly Fishing in Corrientes, Argentina. Introduction We’re thrilled to offer you the chance to explore one of the world’s premier fishing destinations: Argentina’s Corrientes region, home to the Ibera Wetlands, a wilderness paradise and the most biodiverse ecosystem in Argentina. Whether you're an experienced angler or a beginner eager to explore new species, this trip is designed to ease you in, starting with smaller fish in the Wetlands before progressing to larger, more challenging species like the Golden Dorado. In partnership with Set Fly Fishing, we’ve curated an experience tailored to your skill level and interests. While Set Fly Fishing provides world-class outfitting, booking through us ensures you get personalized service, local expertise, and the exclusive Fishwest Hosted Services you already know and love. This all-inclusive trip is perfect for anglers and non-anglers alike. The Ibera Wetlands offer incredible fishing, but also an unparalleled opportunity for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and exploring the pristine natural beauty of Argentina. Plus, it’s a fantastic destination for family holidays, with activities for everyone. Beyond fishing, you can kayak, horseback ride, take cooking classes, visit the gaucho museum, or enjoy sightseeing tours to nearby Mburucuya National Park. It’s the perfect balance of adventure, nature, and relaxation. About the Region The Corrientes region, known for its unmatched natural beauty, is an angler’s dream. Nestled between the Iberá Wetlands and the Upper Paraná River, this area offers an extraordinary range of fishing opportunities. The Iberá Wetlands, one of the largest freshwater marsh systems in the world, support a diverse aquatic ecosystem, including golden dorado, pacú, and pira pita. Meanwhile, the Upper Paraná River, which serves as the natural border between Argentina and Paraguay, is renowned for its big fish and pristine waters. Fun fact: the Paraná River's course changed over time, once running through the center of Concepción, before settling into its current path. This river, alongside its tributaries, creates a breathtaking setting for anglers eager to cast for legendary species. Trip Preparation: What You Need to Know Before You Go As you prepare for your dream trip to Argentina’s Corrientes region, there are a few important things to know about packing, traveling, and getting ready for your adventure. From seamless flights to the right packing strategy, we’ve got you covered. Getting to Argentina from Utah (or Wherever You're Coming From) Flying to Argentina typically involves at least one layover in a major international hub like Miami, Dallas, or Atlanta, before landing in Buenos Aires. Once in Buenos Aires, you'll spend the evening at a local hotel, We stayed at Loi Suites, a very well known spot for most anglers and hunters that come to BA to connect to either Patagonia or Corrientes. Tip for Seamless Travel: We highly recommend booking your flights with Delta Airlines (this is not sponsored) for a smoother, more reliable travel experience. While this is a personal recommendation, having traveled with various carriers, I’ve found Delta offers consistent service with fewer delays or cancellations. In fact, some of my travel companions on past trips encountered a 10-hour delay with other airlines due to "plane problems," but we’ve learned that such delays often stem from other factors, making Delta's reputation for reliability a safer bet for your journey. When booking your flight into Buenos Aires, plan to land at Ezeiza Airport (EZE). Ideally, you’ll want to arrive by 10 AM meet your ground transfer and connect to the local hotel. Packing Smart: Less is More When it comes to packing for Argentina, we recommend keeping things light and simple—this will make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. The lodge does offer laundry service for just $15, so you don’t need to overpack. Trust us, traveling light allows for a more seamless experience and lets you focus on what really matters: fishing. For your luggage, consider using a spacious and durable bag like the Orvis Trekkage, Simms Tailwind 100, or Fishpond Storm Shadow . These are all great choices for holding your fishing gear, clothing, and other essentials in one compact, easy-to-carry bag. You’ll want to make sure everything fits into one checked bag under 40 lbs—this will save you the hassle of dealing with multiple pieces of luggage, the worry of sportsgear uncharges and ensure you're ready to hit the water without delay. Packing List: What You’ll Need Fishing Gear 2-3 fly rods (8 and 9 weight and then a back up rod, weight of your choice) 203 reels (one spooled with the SA Jungle Titan WF and the other spooled with SA Jungle Titan Intermediate. I did not use the following line, but it was suggested the Grand Slam Magnitude WF Full Clear) Fly boxes with a variety of patterns suited for Golden Dorado and other local species, but the uniques thing about SET is they provide the flies! Leaders/Tippet (Saltwater mono (not fluorocarbon) 40 lbs / 50 lbs and Wire Bite Tippet SA 40 lbs for dorado) Tools (Good pliers with strong nipper/scissor) Clothing 3-4 Quick-drying, moisture-wicking shirts 2-3 Lightweight, breathable pants Wading jacket/rain pants Hat and 2 sunglasses (polarized one with low light lens and a bronze or silver mirror) Light jacket/sweater for cooler mornings/evenings Comfortable shoes for the lodge One nice outfit (for dinner in the city) Boat shoes Neck buff and sun gloves Swimsuit (there’s a pool at the A' Londrai lodge! Socks/underwear Dry bag Personal Items Passport and any necessary travel documents, no visas or covid documents required Sunscreen and chapstick Chargers and power converter Bug repellent Personal toiletries Guide Tips (12%-20% of trip total, ideally in large bills $50's and $100's. Most cards are accepted in BA but if you want a few pesos no more than $25-$50 exchanged because really outside of the one night in the city and the time in the airport you wont be spending much) Refillable water bottle At Fishwest, we’re happy to assist with rod and reel rentals, ensuring you have the right gear if you’re missing anything. Just remember, packing light is key—this way, you’ll be well-prepared without overpacking, allowing you to fully enjoy your time on the water! Arrival and First Impressions Landing in Argentina is an experience in itself. Customs requires patience (I waited 1.5 hours), and there are three distinct lines— handicap, priority, and general. When retrieving your bags, check off-conveyor areas as some bags may be removed due to space constraints. From the airport, transfers are seamless. The team has it dialed in, and you’ll reach your hotel in about 30 minutes. Buenos Aires: A Glimpse of the City Thanks to my experience, the SET team arranged a 4-hour city tour, which can be easily incorporated into your trip if you're interested. Of course, if you'd prefer to relax and unwind, there's no obligation to join. For those who do choose to explore, here's a glimpse of what you'll discover. Argentina's culture is a rich blend of Italian influences and European elegance, with delicious offerings like salami, olives, pastas, and some of the best ice cream you’ll ever taste. In November, Buenos Aires comes alive with the purple hues of blooming jacarandas, lining the streets and adding to the city’s charm. The parks and greenery are a nod to the city's French-inspired planning, creating a lush urban landscape. One of the highlights of the tour is the market, which is similar to the famous Ramblas Market in Barcelona. It’s a vibrant, bustling space where locals shop for all sorts of culinary delights. A fun fact I learned during the trip: meat is carefully separated by type. Chicken is bought from the pollería, while beef comes from a separate butcher—each specializing in what they do best. We also had the chance to try empanadas—while both fried and baked are delicious, I found the baked ones to be the best choice. The fried ones are best enjoyed fresh, but the baked variety holds up longer, making them perfect for a midday snack or taking on the go. Fishing Adventure with Set Fly Fishing The Golden Dorado Experience - $8,350 per person 8 angler max (who are you inviting?) WHEN: Mid-February to April, and October to Thanksgiving INCLUDES: 7 nights, 6 full days of fishing. You’ll visit two lodges in one week either Jetu'u and Itati OR La Alondra'i and Itatit, All meals, beer and wine, Full time guide/coordinator, ground transfers/charter flights between Buenos Aires and the lodges, special services described on itinerary, fishing license and all flies. NOT INCLUDED: International flights, Any Buenos Aires expenses – hotels, meals, transfers, etc., Laundry, Gratuities Sample Itinerary DAY 1: Charter flight from Buenos Aires to the first lodge. Check in and welcome dinner. 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. La Alondra'i Lodge - Ibera Wetlands Upon landing on a grass airstrip beside grazing cattle, you’ll be whisked away in a convoy of Hilux trucks to the lodge. The exterior is humble, but stepping inside reveals pristine accommodations. Twin beds, private bathrooms, and even yoga mats awaited us. The lodge boasts internet, a pool, and incredible meals. Upon arrival, you’ll settle in, prep your gear, and enjoy a siesta or pool time before optional horseback riding. Horseback Riding - This was a personal highlight—riding through the marshes with locals leading the way. The saddles, cushioned with foam, leather, and sheep wool, were the softest I’ve ever experienced. Evening Entertainment - The lodge arranged a cultural performance with musicians and dancers. We sipped on Fernet and Coke, a local favorite, while soaking in the experience. The Outpost Camps Fishing days are divided between the main lodge and the outpost camps, located within the park. These camps, ranging from wooden lodges to tented setups, are designed to maximize time on the water. At the camps, expect limited internet (use WhatsApp for quick check-ins), communal meals, and rustic charm. Fishing is intense, with mornings and late afternoons on the water. Wildlife and Fishing Highlights The marshes are teeming with life—over 297 bird species, capybaras, caimans, and, of course, Golden Dorado. Fishing here is about learning technique and fighting these powerful fish. Wildlife Favorites: Jabiru Greater Rhea Southern Screamer Burrowing Owl Scarlet-headed Blackbird Caiman Capybara Marsh Deer Itatí and Trophy Fishing: A True Test of Skill and Endurance Fishing at Itatí Lodge isn’t for the faint of heart. This experience is an intense blend of skill, endurance, and the relentless pursuit of Golden Dorado. From early mornings to late evenings, every moment on the water is a chance to connect with the elusive trophy fish, but it demands preparation and perseverance. The Itatí Schedule: A Grueling but Rewarding Routine The day begins before the sun rises, with a 4:00 AM breakfast call. By 5:00 AM, anglers are already on the water, navigating the middle of the river under pre-dawn light. The focus is on targeting large rocks and seams, feeding line back for an extended swing. Guides troll the boat strategically to enhance the swing, maximizing each cast's potential. Midday offers a brief respite: an 11:00 AM return to the lodge for lunch and a much-needed siesta. But by 4:00 PM, it’s back to the boat, casting until 10:00 PM, when the day concludes with a late dinner at 11:00 PM. The fishing conditions are intense, with 100-degree full sun and demanding techniques that test even seasoned anglers. The ability to cast with precision, manage line effectively, and adjust to varied conditions is critical. What Sets Itatí Apart Fishing at Itatí requires more than just skill; it demands confidence—both in yourself and in your guides. Cody McKeever emphasized that guide confidence played a pivotal role in the success of the fishing experience. Their expertise in reading the water, positioning the boat, and making calculated adjustments was invaluable. Targeting structure and banks throughout the day requires constant focus and the willingness to adapt to ever-changing conditions. This isn’t casual fishing; it’s a true test of your abilities. Exclusive, Personalized Experience The lodge itself accommodates just seven guests and one host, ensuring a highly personalized and intimate experience. This small group dynamic fosters camaraderie among anglers while allowing guides to provide individualized attention. Prepare to Succeed Before embarking on this adventure, it’s crucial to refine your casting skills and build stamina for long days on the water. Itatí isn’t just about catching trophy Dorado—it’s about earning them through dedication and skill. For those up to the challenge, the reward is unmatched: a fishing experience that’s as humbling as it is exhilarating. Final Thoughts Fly fishing for Golden Dorado in Argentina is a transformative experience. From the hospitality at Al Londra to the raw beauty of the marshes, this trip offers much more than fishing—it’s a journey into a wild and magical world. If you're considering this adventure, I’d be happy to help you plan. Trust me, it’s worth every moment.

Pacu

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