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Agua Negra Lodge Bolivia Fly Fishing for Golden Dorado

Customer Rating 92%
Tour Code BOL002

Sight Fishing For Dorado

Tsimane Agua Negra Lodge designed for just four people who will fish three unique river systems, the Sécure River, the Agua Negra and the Chimoro Stream. Each season hundreds of thousands of baitfish migrate up the greater Secure system, and with them come thousands of large, aggressively feeding Dorado. Here it is common to see packs of fierce Dorado herding baitfish into the shallows and mercilessly ripping through them, making some of the most exciting fly fishing you will find. The Secure is larger and often carries a good amount of colour.

Agua Negra and its accessible river systems are the best waters for sight casting in Tsimane with big Dorados in shallow waters. The medium section of the Sécure river holds plenty of structure, and the Chimoro Stream is ideal for Yatorana and medium-size Dorados on light tackle setups.

Typically, when fishing for Golden Dorado fishing Bolivia, guests will fish this river from a motorized super-dugout, but anglers sometimes get out to wade fish. The Secure has lots of water and fishes well both above and beneath the camp. Additionally, anglers will hike 15-20 minutes overland from camp to the Agua Negra River. Once there, they will get into traditional pole powered dugouts and work their way either up or downstream.

Agua Negra River System

Being based out of the comforts of the Agua Negra Lodge while Golden Dorado fishing Bolivia, you will have access and the chance of fishing the headwaters out-camp in the Agua Negra river. The below waterways offer a great variety of waters and pools, allowing a small intimate group to fish fresh water every day; it’s very rare to fish the same beat twice during your stay. 

Sécure River (middle section): This fantastic stretch of river classed as the middle section on this Golden Dorado fishing Bolivia of the high Sécure River. It runs from Ushwea village to the confluence of the Chimoro and Sécure rivers. The primary method of fishing this stretch is by wading downstream. The middle section of the Sécure River is mainly shallow and open, and crystal clear makes for some fantastic sight fishing. The higher you get in the river system, the more stained colour the water becomes due to the tributaries that sweep sediments from the high plateau. The river has many logs, sunken trees, and subsurface structures, all perfect ambush points for many Golden Dorados present. 

Agua Negra River: Is an important tributary of the Sécure River. The river runs from East to West and classed as easy wading in its shallow, slow, clear waters. The lower stretches of the Agua Negra are compared to a flood plain river due to its low gradient where the water runs slowly with many sandy beaches, deep runs and cover that all hold large populations of Dorado and Yatoranas. 

Chimoro Stream: If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, then the Chimoro Stream will give you just that. Fishing #5 rods for Dorado averaging up to 15lbs and many chances at the Yatoranas will leave you speechless. This fantastic crystal clear stream comes down from the same mountain as the Agua Negra and holds lots of fish.

How to catch Golden Dorado

The fishing styles on your Golden Dorado fishing Bolivia with Tsimane fishing vary on all these river systems, but one thing is pretty consistent: the size of the flies recommended. Many anglers are not accustomed to using these, and we strongly recommend you paying attention to the pro guides at all times as they will give you some of the best advice if you are not used to fishing these big flies.

The fishing for Golden Dorado fishing Bolivia is carried out during the dry season, from May up to and including October. This period is when the incredible migration of Sabalos and Dorado in South America takes place. These fish arrive in their millions each year, seeking their spawning grounds, from December to January.

Tsimane fishing is 90% wet wading either in the river or from the banks. Being stable on your feet while wading will benefit many anglers. The river structure varies tremendously from one river to the next. From sandy and small gravel beaches to sharp volcanic rock, however, the wading isn’t complicated or dangerous, but there is a considerable amount of wading.

Fly fishing is either stalking and casting at fish, sometimes we come across feeding frenzies where the water can turn to foam as shoals of Dorado hammer the baitfish right to the shoreline. In these circumstances, it can be so exciting to cast your fly in the middle of the commotion. Alternatively, on slight coloured sections of the river you cast to structure, dead trees and snags that the Dorado just loves to hide under ready to ambush any fly that should dare to pass close by. One thing for sure and why Golden Dorado fly fishing is so addictive is the action is just so exciting.

Over on our Youtube channel, we have lots of really great videos from many freshwater fly fishing destinations around the world.

What tackle is required

Rods: #7,#8, or #9 are the most recommended rods. #8 is standard for Tsimane, but a #9 may be necessary on certain occasions, especially in the lower Sécure River, where it’s frequent to catch large Dorados in powerful currents. It is best to carry two fully assembled rods on the boat, one with a streamer for Dorados and the other with a popper in case a hunt takes place.

Reels: The recommended reels are more designed for saltwater fishing as these tend to have smoother brakes and hold more line. The Dorado or Pacu can quickly have you down to your backing, so high-quality reels will stand you in good steed to accomplish the capture.

Lines: You will do most fishing in the upper layers of the water when Golden Dorado fishing in Bolivia, so it is essential to take weight forward floating lines for tropical waters. The lines should exceed the rod by at least one number; for example, the #8 rod should be loaded with a #9 floating line. This is due to the size of the flies cast and the importance of the angler not tiring themselves out too much during casting.

Wading: As for safety when Golden Dorado fishing Bolivia, we strongly recommend our guests to wade behind their guides and to keep their eyes open. Stingrays are rare (We have never had an incident with a stingray in Tsimane), but they are present in these waters, and an unfortunate misstep can result in a harrowing ordeal. Stingray guards provided when necessary (available at the lodge, but you can bring yours if you prefer).

Accommodation

Agua Negra Lodge sits on a high bluff overlooking the middle reach of the Secure River. The Camp you will be staying at while Golden Dorado fishing Bolivia has excellent views and often a refreshing breeze. It adjoins a small Yuracaré community of roughly 60 people who still live straightforward lives based on hunting, gathering and fishing.

The Camp carved out of the jungle and built using site-milled hardwood and material shipped up the river. The Camp is in a spectacular setting and described as both rustic and elegant.

The main handsome hardwood central building is where you will enjoy meals and cocktails in an open bar and delicious meals served with excellent Argentine wines. The lodge chef serves various local and Argentine meals prepared with a beautiful flair; you would never guess you were in the middle of the jungle.

Sleeping accommodation is four spacious single occupancy safari-style tents with comfortable beds, full linens and private bathrooms with hot showers.

Generators provide electricity, 220-volts, so be sure to bring the proper adapters depending on your electronic device and country of origin. You can charge batteries and use electric shavers or hair dryers. Solar panels are also incorporated into the electronic grid for increased efficiency and sustainability. Electric power is available from 6:00 am to 10:00 am, and again from 5:00 pm to 12:00 am.

Laundry service is provided at no additional cost. Just leave your clothes on the floor, and they will be returned washed and folded.

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Itinerary

TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAYS

Although the fishing days are fixed, the below itinerary is still flexible should you require additional free days to explore at the beginning or end of your holiday; we can tailor this itinerary to suit you personally. Feel free to talk to our travel consultants who can explain all options available.

DAY 1: (Wednesday)

Depart Any international Airport (See Details)

Arrive Madrid Depart Madrid

DAY 2: (Thursday)

Arrive Bolivia

On arrival in Bolivia, you will be met by a member of the Tsimane team and transferred to your hotel.

Overnight accommodation: 5 Star Hotel (Twin Room) R/O

DAY 3: (Friday)

In the morning, a member of our team will pick you up at around 9:30 am to take you to the local airport. You will depart Santa Cruz and arrive in Oromomo Indian Community.

Depart Santa Cruz Arrive Oromomo

On arrival, the guides will welcome the group upon landing, and transfer everyone to the Agua Negra Lodge. This transfer will take between 2 and 3 hours. Your guides will meet you at the camp, show you to your rooms and be ready for the next week of fishing.

Overnight accommodation: Agua Negra Lodge Luxury Tents (Single Rooms) F/B

DAYS 4 to 9: Fishing Days (Saturday to Thursday)

You will spend the next 6 days fishing based on two anglers to one guide.

You will have the option to join a one or two-night backpacking-style trip on both the Upper Pluma and Itirizama.

Overnight accommodation: Agua Negra Lodge Luxury Tents (Single Rooms) F/B

DAY 10: (Friday)

In the morning, you will be transferred back to the Oromomo Village via a 70 min motorised dugout canoe ride for your return flight to Santa Cruz.

Depart Oromono Village

Arrive in Santa Cruz

On arrival, you will be transferred to your overnight hotel.

Overnight accommodation: 5 Star Hotel (Twin Room) R/O

DAY 11: (Saturday)

In the morning you will then be transferred back to the international airport for your return flight.

Depart Santa Cruz Bolivia

DAY 12: (Sunday)

Arrive Madrid Depart Madrid

Arrive Home

Customer Reviews

Average Customer Satisfaction Score 92%

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FISHING Seasons

The season runs from May to October.

Golden Dorado

Season: May to October
Peak: June
Weight: 8lb to 35lb
Average Weight: 15lb

Pacu

Season: May to October
Peak: June
Weight: 1lb to 30lb
Average Weight: 8.5lb

Package Details

Prices from
£8,352
per person

Included

  • All international flights
  • Internal flight to Oromomo Village
  • Transfers in Santa Cruz
  • Boat transfer from Oromomo Village to Agua Negra Camp
  • All accommodation as per itinerary
  • All meals and drinks at Agua Negra Camp
  • 6 days fully guided fishing
  • Indigenous and National Park Fees $570 US Dollars

Excluded

  • Fishing Tackle
  • Personal holiday insurance
  • Meals and drinks Santa Cruz 5 star hotel
  • Tips for guides and all camp staff
  • Airport Taxes
  • Visas

Optional extras

  • Flight upgrades
  • Additional nights in Bolivia

Price Supplements

N/A

View Latest Availability

Dates, Prices & Availability

Remember that Sportquest Holidays' services are completely FREE! When you book a trip with Sportquest Holidays, you never pay more than when you book directly with the lodge and flights independently.

From To Duration Price Availability
24/04/2024 05/05/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
01/05/2024 12/05/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
08/05/2024 19/05/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
15/05/2024 26/05/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
22/05/2024 02/06/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
29/05/2024 09/06/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
05/06/2024 16/06/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
12/06/2024 23/06/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
19/06/2024 30/06/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
26/06/2024 07/07/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
03/07/2024 14/07/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
10/07/2024 21/07/2024 12 £8,352 Enquire Now
2 spaces available 2 spaces available
17/07/2024 28/07/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
24/07/2024 04/08/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
31/07/2024 11/08/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
07/08/2024 18/08/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
14/08/2024 25/08/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
21/08/2024 01/09/2024 12 £8,352 Enquire Now
2 spaces available 2 spaces available
28/08/2024 08/09/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
04/09/2024 15/09/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
11/09/2024 22/09/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
18/09/2024 29/09/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
25/09/2024 06/10/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
02/10/2024 13/10/2024 12 £8,352 Enquire Now
1 space available 1 space available
09/10/2024 20/10/2024 12 £8,352 Enquire Now
5 spaces available 5 spaces available
16/10/2024 27/10/2024 12 £8,352 Sold Out
30/04/2025 11/05/2025 12 £8,674 Enquire Now
07/05/2025 18/05/2025 12 £8,674 Enquire Now
14/05/2025 25/05/2025 12 £8,674 Enquire Now
21/05/2025 01/06/2025 12 £8,674 Enquire Now
28/05/2025 08/06/2025 12 £8,674 Enquire Now
04/06/2025 15/06/2025 12 £8,674 Enquire Now
11/06/2025 22/06/2025 12 £8,674 Enquire Now

Price Notes

Prices are based on two adults sharing transfers, fishing and accommodation in single rooms at Agua Negra Camp (unless otherwise stated) and are correct at the time of going to press. Subject to time of year or date and currency fluctuations, these prices may fluctuate slightly due to flight price increases or fuel surcharges.

 

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Reviews

Mark

Hi just to say we love your site, we are from the USA and last year we had the pleasure in fishing and staying at Tsimane's Agua Negra Camp.

The fishing on both rivers was first class, fishing the Secure which tends to be more coloured was good fun for lots of action and sheer numbers of fish, we landed 83 for our week. Personally I enjoyed fishing the smaller Agua Negra River, as there was more sight fishing to be done.

Keep ups the good work

Mark

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Hi Mark

So glad that we are keeping you guy's happy even across the pond in the mighty USA. Its always a pleasure looking after customers and it never stops amazing us how far the Sportquest service reputation has travelled around the world.

I look forward in talking to you all again soon.

Peter

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

John

My second visit to Agua Negra and it was great to be back. Enjoyed the jungle experience as much as I did first time. The guide and support team did a fantastic job in looking after us; food was even better than in 2019. Fishing was tougher this time around; although I fished better and had similar results (except this time I caught my first Pacu). Mixture of less migratory fish (possibly because of low flows meant we were targeting mainly educated residents) and a full moon week made things challenging. But everyone got super fish by end of week. They are better when they are earned, right?

Response from Sportquest Holidays

John

Thanks for the feedback it is an amazing place in the jungle and great rivers to fish.

As always thank you for your customer and we look forward in dealing with you for your next adventure.

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Derek

A brilliant week at a brilliant destination! We were blessed with some perfect weather conditions which made the fish very obliging - I think I had 52 Golden Dorado over the course of the week, including some really nice fish well into double figures. Thanks to everyone involved in ensuring I had a trip of a lifetime!

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Would recommend Sportquest

Graham

First-class in every aspect! From the flights and transfers to the fishing and guides, every part of my trip ran super smoothly and I'd just like to say a massive thank you to everyone who was involved in putting it together.

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Would recommend Sportquest

Simon

Peter, just want to add my comments to Marks, we were both on the same week at Agua Negra and what an amazing place. Good to see that Sportquest is adding the Tsimane operations to your list of operations. We have used you guys twice so far and if you had the Agua Negra on your books we can honestly say we would have booked through you.

So far you have never let us down and we just love how you take good care of everything, makes life easy. we can concentrate on making money while you look after us like kings.

A big thanks from all the guys, and we look forward in chatting again soon.

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Simon, yes I remember looking after all of you. It was a great Sea Trout fishing trip that we had you all on and before a Salmon fishing trip in Canada.

Thank you so much for the kind remarks, we try very hard to make things as easy as possible for you all.

Give me a call sometime when you are free as it will be good to chat about what you all want to do next.

Tight Lines Peter

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

Timothy

This was my second time visiting the Agua Negra Lodge and like the first time, it was another brilliant week. The fishing was even better than my last visit and I actually caught twenty more fish in my week (I obviously had more of a clue as to what I was doing!). It was great to step foot in Bolivia again and to see the old faces at the lodge, the majority of which were still the same! A massive thanks as always to all the staff both at home and abroad who made my trip possible.

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

Donald

The journey was long and the lodge was very remote, but it was all worth it, as the fishing was first class. I had countless numbers of Golden Dorado and thoroughly enjoyed my stay at the Agua Negra Lodge. I'm not sure I'd return as I feel like I've achieved what I wanted, but I will definitely be on the lookout for my next adventure.

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

David

What a place Bolivia is and what a species the Golden Dorado are! I had a fantastic trip and would 100% recommend it to anyone who's thinking about going, I'll definitely be back at some point.

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Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

Leon

I fly fish regularly in the UK but had never been fishing abroad, it's something I'd always wanted to do and finally last year I took the plunge and booked a week in Bolivia at the Agua Negra Lodge. The reason why, was because I'd always wanted to catch a Golden Dorado, ever since I watched some YouTube video's on them many years ago. The trip and my time away far exceeded my expectations, from the moment I left to the moment I returned I was well looked after every step of the way. On my first day of fishing, I broke my Golden Dorado virginity, landing a fish of around 8lb. Throughout the rest of the week, I think I landed 40 in total - it was incredible fishing. I'd just like to say a massive thanks to everyone at Sportquest in the UK and everyone in Bolivia who made my trip possible.

Fishing
Guides
Accommodation
Meals
Staff & Service
Flights
Would use Sportquest again
Would recommend Sportquest

Alternative destinations

Delta Eco Lodge Argentina

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 Argentina

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.

Golden Dorado Helicopter Fishing Bolivia

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.

Hosted Secure Lodge Bolivia

If you have ever wished to go and experience some of the best Golden Dorado fishing on this planet? These hosted trips are for just 6 people each week, so perfect for single anglers. This is one of the most pristine environments in the world. Combine the stunning wildlife and amazing fishing. This will be a holiday you talk about for a very long time.

Secure Lodge Bolivia

Secure Lodge is the perfect destination for fly anglers looking for the jungle experience, with access to lots of water, giving all anglers many opportunities for fly fishing with heavy and light fly rods. The rivers contain an abundant number of Golden Dorado and provides an experience you'll remember forever.

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