Fly Fishing for Dorado
Argentina has a long history of exceptional freshwater dorado fishing. And from the massive Rio de la Plata system to the unpressured wilderness expanses of the Ibera Wetlands, Nervous Waters has been pioneering these diverse fisheries since the beginning.
Dorado are an apex predator with a wide range of behaviors and moods influenced by seasons and habitat. They can be maddeningly complex, and deciphering the challenges is what keeps anglers coming back. That, and of course, the dorado’s beauty, ferocity, and acrobatic tendencies. Combined, these prized attributes make freshwater dorado one of most distinguished gamefish you’ll find anywhere.
Today we specialize in providing expert guides, premier accommodations, and great dorado flyfishing via three world-class operations.
THE FISHING
Dorado exhibit predatory feeding behaviors, mostly attacking minnows (sometimes not so small), frogs, mice and other creatures that are best represented by larger than average flies and lures. Appropriate tackle is key. And fly fishers used to trout or salmon fishing will do fine with well balanced rods, fly lines and leader. The standard dorado outfit ranges from 6- to 9-weight rods—depending on conditions, river size and the average weight of the dorado you will be targeting. Typically, 7- or 8-weights make the best all-rounders.
Throughout the system, we fish both floating and sinking fly lines. Tropical rated lines are the best. The basin also offers a mix of boat- and wade-fishing opportunities. That said, wade fishing rarely involves wearing waders. Wet wading is the rule. Specific exceptions are usually announced in advance.
Dorado fishing is not a numbers game. Generally, success comes with patience and practice. Dorado may have a reputation for attacking anything unlucky enough to swim into striking range. But in truth, those feeding frenzies can be few and far between. The thrill of fooling these smart fish, on any given day, across an array of conditions, is what makes dorado fishing so special.
In recent years, dorado fishing has become increasingly popular. The internet has also helped spawn many spontaneous experts—some credible, and some not so much. We recommend doing your homework in order to separate the good, the bad and the ugly. With dorado there’s a deeper meaning lying under the layers of commercial noise. When you find it, you’ll know it.
For more information on the technical aspects of fly fishing for dorado, visit the Nervous Waters website today.