This Sportquest Holidays exclusive hosted week has been carefully designed for single anglers looking to experience a truly memorable fly fishing adventure wetting a fly for the fearsome Goldeo Dorado. Unlike our standard trips to Piracua Lodge, which are based on two anglers sharing flights, accommodation and guided fishing, this special departure allows you to travel as a solo guest alongside a group of like-minded Sportquest customers and our host and CEO Peter Collingsworth, with no single supplements or surcharges to pay.
Set in Florencia, Santa Fe, in the heart of the mighty Paraná River system, the fishing at Piracuá is fast-paced, visual and exciting, with anglers targeting Golden Dorado across prime river structure, sandbars and snag-filled water. Known for their savage takes, explosive power and aggressive nature, Dorado are one of the most thrilling freshwater species on the planet, and with expert local guides and productive water just minutes from the lodge, every day offers the chance of some incredible sport.
Away from the river, Piracuá Lodge provides a relaxed and welcoming base, with comfortable accommodation, regional Argentine cuisine and attentive hospitality throughout your stay. With Peter on hand to help host the group from start to finish, this special departure offers the perfect blend of adventure, camaraderie, comfort and world-class Dorado fishing.
This hosted holiday is also available as a standard trip, based on two anglers sharing the fishing and accommodation. Visit the tour page here: Piracua Lodge Argentina
The season runs from May to January.
Season: August to January
Peak: September to December
Weight: 6lb to 45lb
Average Weight: 10lb
Season: October to January
Peak: December to January
Weight: 5lb to 20lb
Average Weight: 6lb
Season: December to January
Peak: December to January
Weight: 1lb to 10lb
Average Weight: 2.5lb
Season: August to January
Peak: Depends on water level
Weight: 10lb to 100lb
Average Weight: 20lb
Depart Any international airport - Arrive Buenos Aires
Depart Any international airport - Arrive Buenos Aires
Depart: TBA
Arrive: Ezeiza International Airport
General Note
General Note
Please note: Depending on your chosen international airport, an overnight flight and/or hotel stay may be required, which may affect your departure and return dates. Your itinerary will be finalised once travel arrangements are confirmed.
Independent flight/travel arrangements can be accommodated, though our flight-inclusive packages are recommended to ensure seamless integration into your holiday plans.
Transfer from Buenos Aires Airport to your overnight hotel
Transfer from Buenos Aires Airport to your overnight hotel
Once you’ve landed in Buenos Aires and collected your luggage, you’ll need to take a taxi (not included) to your overnight hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to relax, unwind, or explore the vibrant culture, cuisine, and charm of this beautiful city.
Buenos Aires Standard Hotel
Overnight Accommodation
Buenos Aires Standard Hotel in a Twin Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis
Transfer from your overnight hotel to Buenos Aires Airport
Transfer from your overnight hotel to Buenos Aires Airport
Depending on your domestic flight schedule, make sure to allow sufficient time to take a taxi (not included) to Buenos Aires airport. We recommend arriving at least 2 hours prior to your departure time.
Depart Buenos Aires - Arrive Resistencia
Depart Buenos Aires - Arrive Resistencia
Depart: Jorge Newbery Airpark
Arrive: Resistencia International Airport
Travel from Resistencia Airport to Piracua Lodge
Travel from Resistencia Airport to Piracua Lodge
On arrival, you will be met by a representative from our partners and transferred to the lodge, a journey of approximately 1 hour. Once there, you’ll be shown to your rooms, and the remainder of the day is yours to relax, unpack, and settle in.
Piracua Lodge
Overnight Accommodation
Piracua Lodge in a Twin Room on a Full board basis
Fishing
Fishing
Your first two fishing days will introduce you to the mighty Rio Paraná, a world-renowned fishery famous for its prolific numbers of Golden Dorado and impressive average fish size.
A typical fishing day is split into two sessions. You’ll begin fishing around 7:30am, staying on the water until approximately 12:00pm, before returning to the lodge for lunch and a chance to relax in the cool, air-conditioned dining area.
After lunch, there’s time for a well-earned rest and traditional siesta before heading back out onto the river at around 3:00pm with your guide for the afternoon session. Fishing usually continues into the evening, with guests typically returning to the lodge between 9:00pm and 10:00pm.
Piracua Lodge
Overnight Accommodation
Piracua Lodge in a Twin Room on a Full board basis
Fishing
Fishing
On your third and fourth fishing days, you’ll continue exploring the mighty Rio Paraná with your guide, fishing a variety of new and productive areas. The water available to Piracuá Lodge is so extensive that it’s rare to fish the same spot twice during the week.
Alongside excellent guides, the lodge also operates superb fishing boats. Its 20ft panga-style vessels are perfectly suited to fly-fishing for Golden Dorado, offering a stable, practical platform for anglers.
Fishing is based on two anglers per guide, with the guide controlling the boat while you and your fishing partner cast simultaneously, drifting along banks, structure, and sandbars in search of hard-fighting Dorado.
Piracua Lodge
Overnight Accommodation
Piracua Lodge in a Twin Room on a Full board basis
Fishing
Fishing
Your final two fishing days offer a fantastic opportunity to focus on a true trophy Golden Dorado. The Rio Paraná is home to exceptional fish, with specimens over 20lb and even 30lb landed each season, the kind of fish that can define an angler’s trip.
These final sessions may also provide the chance to target other exciting species, including Pacu, often regarded as the Permit of Argentina, and the smaller but hard-fighting Pira Pita.
One of the most thrilling ways to fish this river is by sight fishing. Watching an aggressive Dorado lock onto your fly and charge it down is a heart-stopping experience and one of the real highlights of fishing at Piracuá Lodge.
Piracua Lodge
Overnight Accommodation
Piracua Lodge in a Twin Room on a Full board basis
Travel from Piracua Lodge to Resistencia Airport
Travel from Piracua Lodge to Resistencia Airport
In the morning, a representative from our partners will transfer you back to the airport to catch the first of your flights home.
Depart Resistencia - Arrive Buenos Aires
Depart Resistencia - Arrive Buenos Aires
Depart: Resistencia International Airport
Arrive: Jorge Newbery Airpark
Transfer from Buenos Aires Airport to your overnight hotel
Transfer from Buenos Aires Airport to your overnight hotel
Once you’ve landed in Buenos Aires and collected your luggage, you’ll need to take a taxi (not included) to your overnight hotel. After checking in, the rest of the day is yours to relax, unwind, or explore the vibrant culture, cuisine, and charm of this beautiful city.
Buenos Aires Standard Hotel
Overnight Accommodation
Buenos Aires Standard Hotel in a Twin Room on a Bed & Breakfast basis
Transfer from your overnight hotel to Buenos Aires Airport
Transfer from your overnight hotel to Buenos Aires Airport
Depending on your international flight schedule, be sure to allow enough time to take a taxi (not included) back to Buenos Aires Airport for your journey home. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before your departure.
Depart Buenos Aires - Arrive Any international airport
Depart Buenos Aires - Arrive Any international airport
Depart: Ezeiza International Airport
Arrive: TBA
General Note
General Note
Please note: Depending on your chosen international airport, an overnight flight and/or hotel stay may be required, which may affect your departure and return dates. Your itinerary will be finalised once travel arrangements are confirmed.
Independent flight/travel arrangements can be accommodated, though our flight-inclusive packages are recommended to ensure seamless integration into your holiday plans.
Prices are shown per person and are based on twin rooms. All prices are accurate at the time of publication but may vary slightly depending on factors such as travel dates, booking time, airline pricing, or fuel surcharges set by the operators. Flights are always priced at the most competitive rates available at the time of enquiry to ensure you receive the best possible value when booking. Proudly an ATOL bonded company, our trips are complete packages, including all flights, transfers, accommodation, and fantastic fishing and shooting experiences.
This hosted holiday is also available as a standard trip, based on two anglers sharing the fishing and accommodation. Visit the tour page here: Piracua Lodge Argentina
| From | To | Days | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19/11/2027 | 28/11/2027 | 10 | £7,217 | Enquire Book Now |
| 17/11/2028 | 26/11/2028 | 10 | £7,217 | Enquire Book Now |
If your preferred week or travel dates do not appear in the calendar above, please get in touch. Many lodges release availability in stages, and some dates depend on tides, seasons, guide schedules, or short-notice changes. By speaking with us directly, you will receive the most up to date availability and clear guidance on securing the strongest options before popular weeks fill. Enquire now and we will check live availability for the dates you are considering.
Our ATOL protection, means you have financial security on your booking.
All our destinations are thoroughly researched by our team of experts.
We have worked hard to be able to provide you with the best prices possible.
We offer complete holiday packages, making booking a holiday simple.
Piracuá Lodge offers comfortable and welcoming accommodation in the heart of Argentina’s Paraná River system, providing the perfect place to relax after a full day on the water. The lodge features six double rooms, each designed with comfort, privacy, and rest in mind. With a capacity of 12 guests, it maintains an intimate, personal atmosphere throughout the week.
All rooms include private bathrooms and are well equipped to ensure a restful stay between fishing sessions. For solo travellers, single room accommodation and guiding can also be arranged, allowing you to enjoy the full Argentinian fishing experience in complete comfort.
Food and hospitality are central to the Piracuá Lodge experience. All meals and beverages are included during your stay, with menus inspired by the region’s traditional flavours. Guests can look forward to fresh, hearty dishes that combine local ingredients, homemade desserts, and selected wines.
Whether you’re returning from a day chasing Golden Dorado on the fly or simply relaxing at the lodge, the warm service, excellent food, and personal attention help make every stay memorable. Dietary requirements can also be catered for; please let us know at the time of booking so the team can prepare accordingly.
Located in the heart of Argentina’s legendary Paraná River basin, approximately 100km from Resistencia in Chaco Province, Piracuá Lodge offers access to one of South America’s premier Golden Dorado fisheries. Renowned for its healthy fish populations, excellent average sizes, and exciting fly fishing, this remarkable river system provides anglers with the chance to target one of freshwater fishing’s most aggressive and hard-fighting predators.
The Paraná is also home to a diverse range of species, including Surubi, Pacu, Pira Pyta, and Palometa, adding variety and excitement to every day on the water. Combined with the explosive nature of the Dorado, it creates a dynamic and memorable fishing experience.
Owned and operated by father-and-son team Marcelo and Lele, Piracuá Lodge is built on more than 25 years of local knowledge and over 15 years of specialist fly-fishing experience. Named after the nearby Piracuá River, which flows past the property, the lodge combines authentic Argentine hospitality with expert guiding and a genuine passion for the fishery.
Guests can expect a warm welcome, personal service, and outstanding fishing throughout their stay, making Piracuá Lodge one of the finest destinations in Argentina for travelling fly anglers. For those joining our hosted trip with Sportquest Holidays CEO Peter Collingsworth, it also offers the opportunity to share this incredible fishery with a small group of like-minded anglers in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
Often referred to as the “River Tiger”, the Golden Dorado is one of the most exciting freshwater game fish found anywhere in the world. Native to South America’s great river systems, including the mighty Paraná, this aggressive predator is built for hunting. Armed with powerful jaws and rows of razor-sharp teeth, it relentlessly pursues baitfish and will readily attack anything it views as potential prey. Larger fish are even known to feed on small birds, reptiles, and other opportunistic food sources. In the Paraná River system, Dorado can grow to impressive sizes.
What makes the Golden Dorado so highly prized amongst fly anglers is its combination of aggression, power, and unpredictability. Their takes are often explosive, followed by blistering runs and spectacular aerial displays as they attempt to throw the hook. Hard-fighting and beautifully coloured, they have become one of the most sought-after fly-fishing species on the planet, drawing anglers to Argentina in pursuit of a truly memorable freshwater fishing experience. While Golden Dorado are undoubtedly the headline attraction, the Paraná River is also home to a variety of other species:
Recognisable by its elongated body and distinctive spotted markings, the Spotted Surubi is one of South America’s largest freshwater predators. Found throughout the continent’s major river systems, it can exceed 1.5 metres in length and weigh up to 80kg. Primarily active at night, it feeds on fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic prey.
The Tiger Surubi is another impressive catfish species that inhabits the Paraná and its tributaries. Featuring a broad head, powerful body, and sensitive barbels used to locate prey, it thrives in large rivers and lagoons, where it undertakes seasonal migrations linked to its spawning cycle.
A firm favourite amongst travelling anglers, the Pacu is native to the Paraná and Paraguay river basins. Closely associated with areas of dense aquatic vegetation, it feeds on fruits, seeds, insects, and crustaceans. Renowned for its strength and technical nature on the fly, many anglers consider it South America’s freshwater equivalent of the Permit.
Our CEO, Peter Collingsworth, is no stranger to fly fishing in some of the world’s most iconic and remote destinations. From the saltwater flats of Christmas Island and the windswept Sea Trout rivers of Patagonia to the jungle waterways of South America, he has spent a lifetime pursuing a wide variety of species across the globe. With more than 20 years of hosting experience, Peter has guided hundreds of Sportquest customers, helping many achieve new personal bests and tick off long-held bucket-list species.
Peter will be with you throughout the trip, offering support at every stage, from navigating airports and transfers to providing tackle advice and assistance on the water. While his knowledge spans all aspects of fly fishing, he is particularly experienced in targeting Golden Dorado, having spent many years pursuing these incredible fish in the remote rivers of the Bolivian jungle.
Alongside Peter, you’ll also benefit from the expertise of Piracuá Lodge’s experienced local guide team. All fishing is tailored to fly anglers and is based on an intimate two-anglers-per-guide ratio. Your guide will expertly position and control the boat while you and your fishing partner cast to productive water, maximising your opportunities throughout the day.
The guides’ local knowledge is invaluable, and they will be on hand to assist with everything from fly selection and fishing tactics to daily logistics and river conditions. Their goal is simple: to ensure you enjoy the most productive, enjoyable, and memorable Golden Dorado fishing experience possible.
There are few freshwater fishing experiences more exciting than watching a Golden Dorado hunt down a fly. Whether you’re sight fishing to an individual fish or casting towards a likely holding area, the takes are often explosive and truly memorable. Seeing a Dorado accelerate from nowhere and engulf your fly is enough to leave even the most experienced fly angler shaking.
One of the most spectacular behaviours exhibited by these predators occurs when they feed in groups. At times, schools of Dorado will herd baitfish against the shoreline, creating violent feeding frenzies where the water boils with activity. Fish crash through the surface, bait scatters in every direction, and the action can become so intense that Dorado occasionally strand themselves on the bank in pursuit of their prey. Few moments in freshwater fly fishing can rival casting into the middle of such chaos.
Away from these feeding events, much of the fishing revolves around targeting productive structure, drop-offs, current seams, and other likely holding areas with large streamers. This method consistently produces fish and often provides the best opportunity of connecting with one of the river’s larger specimens. While Dorado in the 10lb to 20lb class are encountered regularly, the Paraná is also capable of producing true giants, with fish exceeding 30lb landed each season. Thanks to the vast amount of fishable water available, it’s uncommon to cover the same stretch of river twice during a week’s fishing.
Golden Dorado are powerful fish, and suitable tackle is essential. We recommend single-handed rods between 9ft and 10ft in length, matched with floating lines in the #7 to #9 range. Short, aggressive fly lines such as the RIO Outbound Short are particularly effective, helping to turn over large flies and cope with varying wind conditions.
Leaders should be relatively short and powerful, generally measuring between 1.5 and 2.5 metres, and finished with a wire bite tippet of 20-35lb breaking strain. Reels should feature a smooth, reliable drag system and fast retrieval rates, with 30lb backing and a minimum capacity of 100 yards.
Throughout your stay, the guides will be available to assist with tackle setup, leader construction, fly selection, and any technical aspects of the fishing.
Fly choice plays a huge role in successful Dorado fishing. Productive patterns are typically 13cm to 25cm in length and designed to imitate baitfish found throughout the river system.
The most effective colours are generally black, blue, red, and orange, although carrying a selection of different shades and combinations is always worthwhile. Above all else, flies should be tied on exceptionally strong, razor-sharp hooks capable of standing up to the violent takes and powerful fights that have made Golden Dorado famous throughout the fly-fishing world.
Life at Piracuá Lodge revolves around the rhythms of the Paraná River, with each day designed to maximise your fishing opportunities while still allowing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the lodge experience. A typical day follows a schedule similar to the below:
7:30am – Breakfast at the lodge
8:00am to 12:00pm – Morning fishing session from the lodge’s nearby pier
12:00pm – Return to the lodge for lunch
Afternoon – Time to rest, tie flies, relax, or share stories from the morning
3:30pm to sunset – Afternoon fishing session
9:00pm – Dinner at the lodge
The break in the middle of the day provides the perfect opportunity to recharge before heading back onto the river for the afternoon session. Many anglers find the final hours of daylight particularly productive, with larger Dorado often becoming more active as the sun begins to drop towards the horizon.
Evenings at the lodge are relaxed and sociable. After dinner, guests can organise tackle, prepare flies for the following day, enjoy a drink with fellow anglers, or simply unwind while reflecting on the day’s fishing.
Fishing at Piracuá Lodge is conducted from a fleet of purpose-built boats designed specifically for the challenges of the Paraná River. The operation runs seven boats in total, six of which are fully equipped for fly fishing.
Featuring modern electronics and electric motors, the boats allow guides to manoeuvre quietly and efficiently around productive water, helping anglers maximise their fishing time while minimising disturbance to the fish.
Throughout your stay, you’ll fish alongside experienced local guides who possess an intimate knowledge of the river and its ever-changing conditions. Operating on a two-anglers-per-guide basis, they will help position the boat, identify productive areas, advise on tactics and fly selection, and ensure you make the most of every opportunity. Their local expertise and passion for the fishery play a huge role in making a week at Piracuá both productive and memorable.
Piracuá Lodge offers travelling anglers the chance to experience explosive Golden Dorado fishing in the heart of Argentina’s mighty Paraná River system. With expert local guides, comfortable lodge accommodation and prime river access just minutes away, it delivers the perfect blend of adventure, comfort and authentic South American sport fishing.
Delta Eco Lodge is the perfect ‘add-on trip’ for anglers visiting or passing through Argentina and looking for a couple of extra days of Golden Dorado fishing at the start or end of their holiday. Situated in an ideal location, less than an hour from downtown Buenos Aires, it’s the perfect stop for travelling rods before the flight back home.
Suindá Lodge is a Golden Dorado anglers dream and is a first-class program for those searching for exciting freshwater fly fishing opportunities combined with some of the most technical yet rewarding fishing out there; it’s also a destination where double-figure Dorados are a possibility all season long.
If you have ever wanted to experience fly fishing for Golden Dorado in stunning surroundings, then Pira Lodge is the perfect destination. Explore this huge expanse of creeks, lagoons and rivers from our Hells Bay flats boats, searching for Golden Dorado in the crystal clear water that is eagerly awaiting your fly.
For 2023 we're excited to introduce to you a brand new helicopter fishing trip, allowing adventurous travelling rods the opportunity to fish some of the most remote, untouched waters in Bolivia and the whole of the South American continent for the hard-fighting Golden Dorado. If you're looking for a first-class, fly fishing adventure, then this is perfect for you.
