Argentina

FISHING HOLIDAY IN ARGENTINA LA ZONA – THE LARGEST GOLDEN DORADO IN THE WORLD

Golden Dorados are widespread in the tropical and subtropical rivers of South America, with countless local providers available. However, one destination stands out from the crowd, as it is home to the largest Golden Dorados in the world. We’re talking about the Salto Grande Dam near Concordia. Here, the Uruguay River, the border river between Argentina and Uruguay, is dammed for power generation. But it’s not just the water masses that accumulate at this gigantic structure. Below the dam, in the raging currents on their journey upstream, the fish gather. The table is so richly set that the predatory Golden Dorados grow into true monsters here. Experience thrilling action in raging currents with the largest Golden Dorados in the world.

OUR TOP 5 REASONS FOR YOUR FISHING TRIP TO ARGENTINA

• Fishing independent of water levels
• Strict regulations leading to no overfishing
• Comfortable lodge with first-class cuisine
• Only 5 minutes drive to the boat dock
• Over 30 current IGFA records originate from here

FISHING IN LA ZONA

The LA ZONA Lodge is only about a 5-minute drive from the river. The lodge offers a shuttle service to the boats. The fishing spots directly in front of the dam can also be reached very quickly by boat, so long distances are not an issue here. For the first kilometer below the dam, only a total of four boats are allowed to fish, two from the Argentine side and two from the Uruguayan side. Additionally, fishing is only allowed on 4 weekdays according to official regulations, which makes overfishing impossible and creates a perfect situation for catching the fish of a lifetime. More than 30 records, including the current All-Tackle IGFA record of 25.28 kg (55 lb 11 oz), have been caught here. Whether using poppers on the surface, fly fishing, large wobblers, or soft plastics and spinnerbaits, the selection of lures and fishing methods is diverse. Just choose your weapon!

Main fish species in Argentina, LA ZONA: Golden Dorado, Surubi (catfish species)

TYPICAL ITINERARY FOR YOUR FISHING TRIP TO ARGENTINA

Day 1: Evening departure from Europe
Day 2: Morning arrival in Buenos Aires, Argentina, overnight stay at the hotel
Day 3: Transfer to LA ZONA Lodge
Day 4-7: 4 days of fishing, 8 hours each from 8:00-12:00/15:00-19:00 (Monday-Thursday)
Day 8: Transfer back to Buenos Aires, overnight stay at the hotel Day 9: Return flight to Europe
Day 10: Arrival home

By the way, travel time can also be significantly shortened by replacing the two hotel overnight stays in Buenos Aires with a direct transfer from the airport to the lodge and back. We are also happy to organize your individual stay in LA ZONA. Just let us know!

THE RIGHT TACKLE IN LA ZONA

Rods: There’s no room for light tackle here. We recommend using sturdy PE6 to 8 spinning rods with a casting weight of 120-140g, similar to what you would use for targeting Giant Trevally in tropical saltwater. For example, the WESTIN W6 Popping – 140g.

Fly fishers should be comfortable with rod classes #10 – #12.

Reels + Line: Shimano Stella or Twin Power SW 8000HG reels paired with strong PE5-6 class lines.

In preparation for the tour, you’ll receive detailed tour information from us, including our personal bait recommendations for each fishing method.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ARGENTINA

• Argentina spans an area of approximately 2.78 million square kilometers, making it the eighth largest country in the world and about four times the size of France. The capital city of Argentina is Buenos Aires.
• Argentina is a melting pot of various cultures, reflected in the country’s rich cultural diversity. While Spanish is the official language of Argentina, there are numerous indigenous languages spoken throughout the country, including Mapudungun, Quechua, and Guarani.
• Tango originated in Argentina. This iconic dance form, known for its passion and intensity, emerged in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires and Montevideo in the late 19th century. Tango music and dance have since spread worldwide, becoming an integral part of Argentine culture.
• Argentinians are passionate about their cuisine. From succulent beef dishes such as asado (barbecue) to hearty stews like locro (a stew made with corn, beans, and meat), Argentine cuisine is diverse and flavorful. Don’t miss trying empanadas, delicious pastry pockets filled with various savory ingredients.
• The gauchos are an iconic symbol of Argentine culture. These skilled horsemen, who originated in the Pampas region, played a crucial role in Argentina’s history and are celebrated for their bravery, independence, and traditional way of life. Today, the gaucho culture remains an integral part of Argentine identity, celebrated in festivals, rodeos, and folk music. Argentinian literature is renowned worldwide. From the magical realism of Jorge Luis Borges to the passionate poetry of Pablo Neruda,

THE BOATS DURING YOUR FISHING TRIP

The boats are perfectly designed for fishing in the fast currents of the river. The hull structure of a classic trimaran makes the boats extremely stable, and the engines ranging from 60 to 80 horsepower are sufficient for quickly propelling the boat over short distances. With a length of 21 feet (approximately 7 meters), the boats are ideal for accommodating 2 to a maximum of 3 anglers.

A COZY FISHING LODGE NEAR THE RIVER

The lodge features six large, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and hot water showers. A complimentary daily laundry and housekeeping service, a swimming pool, and friendly staff are all part of the package. The lodge is also accessible for wheelchair users. Indulge in delicious homemade meals with excellent three-course menus and an open bar offering a variety of beers or fine Argentinian wines. If you’re on a diet, Argentina might not be the best destination for you, as the homeland of good meat knows how to cook and keep hungry anglers fully satisfied.

THE BEST TIME FOR YOUR FISHING TRIP TO LA ZONA

Fishing for Golden Dorado below the Salto Grande is possible all year round, although there are differences in the numbers and the expected fish sizes depending on the time of year.

May – October: These are the colder winter months, which coincide with the spawning season. The largest and heaviest individual specimens can be caught during this time, but the overall numbers are smaller.

November – April: These are the warm summer months. The days are long with around 13 hours of sunlight and the dorados are plentiful. Although the fish are not quite as fat and heavy as during the spawning season, your arms are more likely to get tired than the golden dorados.

WHAT DOES YOUR FISHING TRIP TO ARGENTINA COST?

PRICE: starting from USD 4500 (excluding international flights)

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:

• 2 hotel nights in a double room in Buenos Aires,
• Transfer to and from the lodge,
• 4 days of fishing, 8 hours per day (3 anglers per boat),
• Full board including all drinks.

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:

• International flights to Buenos Aires,
• Airport transfer to the hotel and back,
• Tips,
• Personal expenses.

Contact us for a personalized trip planning. We are happy to provide you with an offer tailored to your wishes!

VIDEOS FROM OUR FISHING TRIPS TO ARGENTINA

You can find more videos in the  „ARGENTINA“ playlist on our YouTube channel.