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Pluma Lodge Bolivia Golden Dorado On The Fly

Customer Rating 97%
Tour Code BOL001

Fishing The Pluma River

Pluma Lodge is unarguably the best Golden Dorado fishery on the planet and, in the opinion of most experts, one of the top 10 fly-fishing destinations worldwide. Located in a remote indigenous territory of Bolivia where the Andes meet the upper Amazon, the Freestone Rivers each season sees hundreds of thousands of baitfish migrate up the river system, and with them come thousands of large, aggressively feeding Golden Dorado.

Tsimane Fishing has three distinct operations, Pluma Lodge, Agua Negra Camp and Secure Camp. All located within a 25-mile radius in Bolivia’s watershed Pluma Lodge, which overlooks the Pluma River, is considered the most deluxe and diverse of the Tsimane fishing lodges—strategically located in the middle of the Pluma River below the confluence of two world-class systems, the upper Pluma and the Itirizama.

The fishing at Pluma Lodge is a perfect mix of the small crystal clear streams. It’s the ideal destination to try all the fly fishing styles, even spey casting, throwing a popper into a feeding frenzy, to a sight cast in a pocket; Pluma Lodge offers the whole Tsimane experience.

Over on our YouTube channel, we have some fantastic freshwater fly fishing videos; why not head over and take a look?

Pluma Lodge Programme

The fishing in Bolivia, based at the luxurious Pluma Lodge, gives many advantages from fishing the headwaters out-camps, having access to three different rivers that are all unique, and offering different fishing styles from the Pluma River, Itirizama River and the lower Sécure River. Each piece of water varies from deep pools to rugged terraced pocket water.

Pluma River: The river is moderately sized and is crystal clear with a rich and stunning topography. It runs from south to north, parallel to the Mostenes Mountains, which gives this river a slightly broader and more open feel than some other rivers. The Pluma River is more suited to easier wading due to its vast banks and is covered in smooth gravel and rock. This river is home to the four main species you will be targeting from the Dorado, Yatorana, Surubi and Pirapitinga. 

Itirizama River: Is the ‘Jewel in the crown.’ Many anglers consider her the premier system by many who have visited the Tsimane programs. The size of the river is very similar to the upper stretches of the Pluma River; the main difference is a steeper gradient and more rugged terrain giving it a different feel and appearance. The Itirizama River runs from west to east through some stunning canyons, making it a typical mountain stream with many runs, rapids, waterfalls and large boulders. This is the most physically demanding section of the river to hike, wade, and fish, but the rewards are incredible for those who choose to fish it. 

Sécure River (Lower section): The lower areas of the Sécure River offer anglers easy wading in broad, flat and expansive sandbars and shallow flats. The river’s bottom is lined with fine sediment and dotted along the shoreline are many sunken logs. When the Sabalos (baitfish) are here in numbers, the Dorados go on a mass-feeding frenzy and hunt their prey in significant numbers. When this happens, the preferred style of fishing is to use flies such as poppers, Pole dancers or Titanic sliders. Below the Delta region is one of the most active fishing beats in Tsimane, called Coruya, due to the large number and the size of dorados that live and migrate through here. 

Fishing For Golden Dorado

As previously mentioned, the fishing styles with Tsimane fishing vary on all these river systems, but one thing is consistent: the size of the flies recommended. Many anglers are not accustomed to using these, and we strongly recommend you pay 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 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 occurs. 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, the wading isn’t complicated or dangerous, but there is a considerable amount of wading.

What Tackle Is Needed

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 Golden Dorado 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 stead to accomplish the capture.

Lines: You will do most fishing in the upper layers of the water, 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.

Accommodation

When one thinks of remote destinations in the heart of a jungle, they probably do not realise that the accommodation on offer can be of a high standard. Guests of Tsimane Fishing will enjoy complete relaxation and comfort during their stays. Pluma Lodge features stylish log cabins which can sleep up to six guests per week in single rooms. You will find a private bathroom with hot water and total electricity in each log cabin. You will find WIFI in the main common area and satellite phone service. The common area will be the place to eat, where you will find they serve delicious international cuisine accompanied by some delightful Argentine Wines.

At Pluma Lodge with Tsimane fishing, you will benefit from mod cons such as spring box beds, hot water, electric lights, complimentary laundry service and even a fly tackle shop.

FOOD & BEVERAGES

The main focus of Tsimane Fishing for evening meals is an international menu with lots of fresh meats, vegetables and some stunning wine. Each day the breakfast is cooked to order, and lunches are packed for the day on the water, which you can eat riverside.

The drinks at the lodge are all included in your package. These include all beer, wine and liquor. In general, the food at the lodge is delicious, and the staff will go out of their way to help with any dietary requirements or special requests.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

As this is a remote fishing lodge, it is not ideal for non-anglers and would suit people who are there to fish.

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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: (Thursday)

Depart Any international Airport (See Details)

Arrive Madrid Depart Madrid

DAY 2: (Friday)

Arrive Santa Cruz 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: (Saturday)

In the morning, our staff will pick up the group of 8 anglers around 9:30 am to head to the local airport. The group will then board the charter flight to the Oromomo Indian Community (90-minute flight).

Depart Santa Cruz

Arrive Oromomo Village

On arrival, the guides will welcome the group upon landing and transfer everyone to the Pluma Lodge. This transfer is a boat ride for 1h (Depending on the water level ) to the Pluma Lodge. You will be met by your guides at the lodge, shown to your rooms and get ready for the next week of fishing.

Overnight accommodation: Pluma Lodge Wooden Cabin (Single Room) F/B

DAYS 4 to 9: Fishing Days (Sunday to Friday)

Spend the next 6 days fishing based on 2 anglers to 1 guide. You can also, if you wish, take an option of one or two-night backpacking-style trips on both the Upper Pluma and Itirizama.

Overnight accommodation: Pluma Lodge Wooden Cabin (Single Room) F/B

DAY 10: (Saturday)

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 Santa Cruz

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

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

DAY 11: (Sunday)

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

Depart Santa Cruz Bolivia

 

DAY 12: (Monday)

Arrive Madrid Depart Madrid

Arrive Home

Customer Reviews

Average Customer Satisfaction Score 97%

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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
£8,277
per person

Included

  • All international flights
  • Internal flight to Oromomo Village
  • Transfers in Santa Cruz
  • Boat transfer from Oromomo Village to Pluma Lodge
  • All accommodation as per itinerary
  • All meals and drinks at Pluma Lodge
  • 6 days fully guided fishing
  • Indigenous and National Park Fees $670 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 and 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
03/10/2024 14/10/2024 12 £8,277 Enquire Now
4 spaces available 4 spaces available
10/10/2024 21/10/2024 12 £8,277 Enquire Now
6 spaces available 6 spaces available
17/10/2024 28/10/2024 12 £8,277 Enquire Now
8 spaces available 8 spaces available
01/05/2025 12/05/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
08/05/2025 19/05/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
15/05/2025 26/05/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
22/05/2025 02/06/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
29/05/2025 09/06/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
05/06/2025 16/06/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
12/06/2025 23/06/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
19/06/2025 30/06/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
26/06/2025 07/07/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
03/07/2025 14/07/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
10/07/2025 21/07/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
17/07/2025 28/07/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
24/07/2025 04/08/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
31/07/2025 11/08/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
07/08/2025 18/08/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
14/08/2025 25/08/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
21/08/2025 01/09/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
28/08/2025 08/09/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
04/09/2025 15/09/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
11/09/2025 22/09/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
18/09/2025 29/09/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
25/09/2025 06/10/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
02/10/2025 13/10/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
09/10/2025 20/10/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
16/10/2025 27/10/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now
23/10/2025 03/11/2025 12 £8,591 Enquire Now

Price Notes

Prices are based on two adults sharing transfers, fishing and accommodation in single rooms at Pluma Lodge (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.

Make an Enquiry

To speak to an expert or receive more information about when is the best time to travel? What can you expect from your holiday? Who are the tour guides? Will someone be there to meet me? Plus, many more questions. Either call our offices, e-mail us or fill in the form, and we will get back to you asap.
+44 (0)1603 407596
sales@sportquestholidays.com
16 Alston Road
Hellesdon Park
Norwich
Norfolk
NR6 5DS

Reviews

Justin

I fished at Pluma Lodge last year and enjoyed it so much that I re-booked for this year and once again I wasn't let down, it was fantastic. Last year the fishing was a little slow because of the weather, but this time around it was fantastic. My previous Golden Dorado PB was just over 10lb, but I smashed it this year with a cracking fish a few ounces over 18lb. My guide (apologies I can't remember his name) was absolutely first class and an expert in his field! Thanks to everyone involved in making my trip so memorable.

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

Davey

I absolutely loved my week in Bolivia. It was my first time targeting Golden Dorado, but it certainly won't be my last... what a fish! The staff and guides at Pluma Lodge were exceptionally accommodating and done everything they could to make sure I had the best week possible. Considering how remote the lodge is, the food and drink was first class too - some of the Argentinian wine was out of this world!

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

Lucas

If you've never caught a Golden Dorado then you need to! They have to be one of the best sporting fish in the world and targeting them on a balanced fly fishing set-up was so much fun. I'd just like to say thank you to everyone who made my trip possible, everything from start to finish ran so smoothly.

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

Timothy

I'd been on a few freshwater fly fishing holidays in and around Europe but this trip to Bolivia was by far the furthest afield I'd ever travelled. However, from the moment I left my front door to the moment I returned home, everything went brilliantly. I think I was extra lucky with the weather and the fishing, but everything just clicked. I had a fantastic week and landed tonnes of Golden Dorado (I think my biggest was a few ounces over 15lb). The guides were brilliant and the lodge was very smart, comfortable and relaxing.

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

Gordon

This was my third trip to Bolivia and my third time fishing for the Golden Dorado, but my first time at Pluma Lodge. What a place - I think it's probably my most enjoyable trip yet. The fishing, guides, lodge and staff were all first class and without a doubt, I'll be back.

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

Tom

Glad to see that you have added these programs to your website. We have been here a few times and can only say good things. Great fishing, great guides perfection.

We have used Sportquest also a few times and happy to see that they are expanding to cover more destinations with their 1st class service.

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Tom

Thank you so much for your comments, I did not know you guys had been there. Will catch up on the phone soon.

Again thanks for the comments people will think I am paying you.

Love to see some of your pictures from the trips buddy.

Regards Peter

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

Peter

Peter just to let you know I had a great time, the lodge and staff made the trip. I caught lots of Golden Dorado and on my best i even managed 5 fish in 1 hour all in the same pool.

We found the best fishing where the dirty water joined the clear streams as it made perfect ambush points.

I have sent you a few pictures to share

Response from Sportquest Holidays

Peter it was great talking to you and you have made me even more excited for next year now.

Thanks fir the pictures it certainly looks like you had a great time. I hope I can be of a assistance in the future and one-day even have you on one of my hosted trips.

Thanks again for your customRegards Peter

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.

Latest Reports

Tsimane Fishing Report Week 12 2024

HELI FISHING During the tenth week of the season in the heli fishing program, we had excellent catches of resident Dorado ranging from 15-18 pounds. These were caught using mouse patterns and streamers. The temperature...

Tsimane Fishing Report Week 11 2024

HELI FISHING During the ninth week of the season in the heli-fishing program, we caught resident Dorado ranging from 10-14 pounds. These catches were made using mouse patterns and Titanic Sliders. We also landed some...

Tsimane Fishing Report Week 10 2024

HELI FISHING The eighth week of the heli fishing program season, we saw catches of large resident dorado weighing up to 17 and even 20 pounds, as well as large pacú up to 15 pounds....
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