Few would argue that the fishing in Argentina is anything but fantastic, but it is undeniable that travelling to this beautiful part of the world from the UK takes some effort. While travelling for a week is better than not at all, it is always far nicer and less rushed to go for a little longer. A few days of dorado or trout fishing before or after a week chasing sea trout offers the perfect contrast to swinging flies with a two-handed rod. Not only this, but the landscape and wildlife differ hugely throughout the country, from the mountain-clad trout rivers in northern Patagonia to huge wetlands like the Esteros del Iberá in Corrientes. To focus on only one area in a country as unique and diverse as Argentina is an opportunity missed.
Below, we have detailed some excellent options for an add on to an Argentina fishing trip that work for a few days or half a week to add to another trip.
Patagonian Trout Fishing
Estancia Laguna Verde
For trout anglers seeking trophy fish, there is no place like Estancia Laguna Verde with its easy access to Lago Strobel, otherwise known as Jurassic Lake. The lake holds some of the worlds largest wild rainbow trout that have grown fat and strong on a diet of freshwater shrimp. These giant rainbows feed hard and can be sight fished on floating lines using everything from streamers and nymphs to skating big foam flies and mouse patterns.
Strategically located, the lodge has exclusive access to more than 14km of Strobel Lake, over 10km of the Barrancoso river and a further 10km of the recently discovered Moro Creek. In addition to what is already a vast expanse of stunning water, the lodge also can fish a myriad of smaller lakes and lagoons chained together by the Moro Creek.
The incredible Barrancoso River is the only tributary of Strobel Lake. This beautiful freestone river runs for more than 10km through the estancia, allowing anglers access to some incredible river fishing. Massive rainbows run the river and can be targeted in the pools, riffles and runs they occupy. Hook one here, and you will have a severe battle on your hands.
Estancia Tecka
Estancia Tecka offers a truly solitary fishing experience across its 96 miles of private trout water in the Chubut Province of Argentine Patagonia. Fishermen can enjoy a mix of wading, walking and drifting fishing for brown, rainbow and brook trout. Rio Tecka is the smaller of the two rivers and features graceful sweeping ‘S’ bends and undercuts while Rio Corcovado is wider, gin-clear and accessible by drift boat, although some fishing is from freestone flats and banks.
Anglers can stay in one of two comfortable lodges. Headquarters Lodge is the original farmhouse, dating back to the 1920s and comprises four large bedrooms and is very much of traditional estancia character. Caridad sits on the banks of the Rio Corcovado with the snow-capped Andes as a backdrop. The six bedrooms have beautiful views of the surrounding river and countryside.
Dorado Fishing
Pirá Lodge
Pirá Lodge is located in Argentina’s Iberá Wetlands, one of the most unique and fascinating wetlands in the world. After weather pattern that deprived much of Argentina rain the weather gods have smiled and recent abundant rains have revitalised the marshlands leading to a remarkable resurgence. The area itself is twice the size of the Florida Everglades and is the second-largest wetland in the world. This breathtakingly beautiful ecosystem is rich in flora and fauna and is home to over 350 species of birds. The marsh comprises freshwater creeks, lakes, swamps, and lagoons, providing the perfect habitat for solid numbers of golden dorado. Unlike some other dorado destinations, the waters in the Iberá Marshlands are clear, making sight fishing possible. As the water levels continue to rise Pirá Lodge is primed for an extraordinary fishing season in one of Argentina’s most pristine environments.
Pirá accommodates up to 10 guests in five large rooms, each with a private entrance, private bath, two double beds and air conditioning. A separate building, attached by covered galleries, accommodates the spacious living room, bar and dining room, each with tall doors which open up to the wide veranda. The lodge was designed to respect the traditional local architecture while offering all the comforts of a contemporary hotel. Pirá offers wonderful cuisine based on local meats, fresh fruit and vegetables and delicious deserts.
The Golden Dorado River Cruiser
The Golden Dorado River Cruiser is the only mothership programme in Argentina and offers the chance to fish the Paraná River and the Entre Rios delta system like never before. With a total length of over 1,500 miles, the Paraná River is the second largest in South America and the hundreds of tributaries, deltas, marshlands, lagoons and side channels are full of unique flora and fauna.
The mothership travels throughout the river system, following the dorado on their seasonal migration. Anglers are able to fish some of the most remote waters which hold unpressured dorado. Not only do these waters offer substantial numbers of golden dorado, but there are also pira pita, pacú and wolfish to target. Guests are picked up and driven from Buenos Aires to the mothership, which makes this an ideal option for a shorter trip.
The simple but comfortable accommodation provides all the amenities for a great fishing trip. Fishermen are treated to the best Argentinean food paired with a fine selection of renowned Argentinean wines. After dinner, reflect on the day of fishing in the mothership’s living area with a drink in hand or admire the views of the Paraná River from the boat’s veranda. Guests stay in the four double occupancy rooms – each has air conditioning, TV, private bathroom, comfortable beds and internet connection.
Suindá Lodge
Suindá Lodge is a dorado angler’s dream, strategically located near the town of Itatí, in the Corrientes province. The region houses one of the most productive sections on the Upper Paraná River, a clear-water fishery that consistently produces good numbers of large dorado. The secret of this part of the river lies in its structure: generally fast-flowing runs, coursing over beautiful rock gardens. Due to the clarity of the water the Upper Paraná offers exceptional sight-fishing opportunities for dorado when the conditions are right. Although large dorado, in the region of 20+lb, are the main focus of the fishing programme, this is multi-species fishery where anglers can also target pacú and pirá pitá on dries. One spectacle seen during the season is the huge numbers of sabalo (baitfish) that congregate in massive schools along the edges of sandbanks. Watching large dorado bust up on these schools is an impressive sight. Not only does Sunidá offer some excellent fishing, but it is also an exceptional destination for lovers of wildlife, especially birds with many unusual species in the area.
The newly built lodge is located a stone’s throw from the river. Stilted living quarters are perched on a high bluff and nine feet above the ground offering stunning views of the Paraná River and surrounding area.
For an all out golden dorado extravaganza you can combine Suindá and Pirá on a combination itinerary. Details here.
Delta Lodge
This unique operation allows anglers to fish for dorado for golden dorado within view of Buenos Aires’ skyscrapers or escape further into the delta and visit the myriad of braids and channels found in the surrounding wetland. The area teems with life, and anglers target not only golden dorado but also vampire-like chafalote and the lesser known, equally aggressive tararia (wolfish).
Delta Lodge offers day and multi-day trips for rods who wish to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The boat’s marina is accessed via a short transfer from the centre (around 45 minutes). From there, you will spend the day exploring the natural riches of the Lower Delta and Paraná River with a local, English-speaking guide. The programme at Delta Lodge has been designed for those with limited time to spare when or for those with a few days either side of their visit to areas like Tierra Del Fuego.
This short video gives a glimpse of what you can expect at Delta Lodge.
For more details on add ons to your Argentina fishing holiday or to enquire about Argentine availability in general please contact Olly Thompson call us on 
01980 847389.
Click HERE to view our Argentina and Chile brochure.