The river tiger on a fly rod: seasons, rivers, steel leaders and the streamers that actually work.
The most combative fish in South America
The golden dorado (Salminus brasiliensis) is a pure predator: it strikes with violence, jumps repeatedly and makes runs that test any tackle. Fly fishing almost always releases it, to protect the species.
Where to fly-fish for it
The dorado lives in the Río de la Plata basin: the Paraná, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bermejo and Pilcomayo rivers and the Juramento reservoirs (Cabra Corral). The Iberá wetlands and the Middle Paraná are classic fly destinations for their clear water and abundant structure.
The best season
Spring through autumn, in warm water (October to April). Check each province's spawning closed season before you go: the dates vary by jurisdiction and usually fall between November and January.
