Rod, reel, line and the basic tackle for your first dorado outing, without overspending.
Start right without overspending
The dorado is a powerful, hard-mouthed fish: your gear has to handle strong runs and allow firm hook-sets. You do not need the most expensive setup, but you do need the right one.
Rod and reel
To start, a medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting outfit. A medium-high power rod and a reel with a good drag. The drag is key: the dorado runs and jumps, and a smooth drag prevents break-offs.
Line and leader
20-to-40 lb braid or 0.40-to-0.50 mm mono. And the most important thing for beginners: a length of wire or steel as a leader. The dorado cuts mono with its teeth, so without steel you lose the fish and the lure.
Lures
- Heavy spoons to cover water and depth.
- Surface and mid-water plugs for visible feeding.
- Jigs for the pools.
- With live bait, swamp eel or eel on a strong hook.
First destination
The Middle Paraná is ideal to start: there are guides, ramps and plenty of fish. A guided boat trip speeds up the learning curve and keeps you safe on the river.
A safety tip
Bring long pliers and gloves to release the fish without hurting it or yourself: the dorado bites hard.
