For many years the golden dorado or “River Tiger,” one of Latin America’s most exciting game fish, was kept a secret in its heartland. But as intrepid anglers began getting to know this aggressive and spectacular fish, word spread and it quickly rocketed to the top of the anglers’ wish lists.

Up until now Pira represented the ultimate dorado fishing lodge, catering to anglers across the globe. It offers untold acres of unpressured waters in the Iberá marshlands, where hungry dorado await good casts and those looking for challenges and rewards.

With the debut of our newest lodge, Alto Paraná, the adventure has expanded and, together with Pirá, we’re now proud to offer the most complete and exciting dorado program on the planet. Anglers will thrive on fishing across varied environments and experience all facets of dorado behavior—from sight-casting in clear, skinny water to river and delta scenarios, and more.

The new lodge is strategically located on the upper and clearest section of the legendary Paraná River. Being the main artery in the basin, supersized dorado are a possibility anytime. To add more variety, you’ll also have shots at pacú and pira pita; two of the strongest freshwater species in the world that bring dry-fly action onto the menu.

The close proximity of Pira and Alto Paraná makes for a perfect, one-of-a-kind combination trip. Plus, you’ll be just one hour from the most breathtaking falls in South America: THE IGUAZÚ FALLS—a not-to-be-missed sight.

Be one of the pioneering anglers to combine these two unique dorado destinations today.

Bair’s Lodge said goodbye to its last clients of the season in May, a month that typically translates to BIG FISH at South Andros. Thankfully, the spring conditions cooperated: Temperatures warmed into the blissful 80-degree range. Skies cleared, allowing the solar-effect to warm the waters of the flats. And, for the most part, winds were moderate.

With this spectacular close to the season, we’re anxious to begin a new one. At the lodge, longtime Bair’s managers Ray and Ann have recently retired—although they plan to stay close and even host selected groups throughout the season. At the same time, we’re excited to introduce you to our new managers, who we’re sure you’ll also love.

MEET ERIC AND ANGELA VAN VELSEN

After working in the fly-fishing industry for a combined 15 years, Eric Van Velzen and Angela Brennan are excited to be welcoming guests from around the world at Bair’s Lodge on wild South Andros. With expertise in guiding, food preparation, hosting, and logistical planning in various environs, Angela and Eric know first hand what goes into a successful fly-fishing operation. Their mantra is to provide attentive services, exceed the expectations of fellow anglers, while emphasizing the value of the fishery, ecosystem, and local resources.

Abaco Lodge
By Ken and Anne Perkinson

Abaco closed its doors back in July. The weather was crazy and so were the numbers of bonefish caught! The Marls produced a lot of large fish this year with many bones weighing more than 8 pounds. One group of anglers actually landed close to 150 fish in a short 4-day span, and there were plenty of double-digit days to be had by anglers.

This year also included a few tarpon opportunities and, better yet, had some great permit hookups! We always enjoy the many sightings and opportunities to go after barracuda and sharks and this season was no exception. For instance, we’ll all remember the 10-foot bull shark that our longtime guide, Marty Sawyer, encountered in the skinny waters of the Marls. Another highlight was our last group of the season, a novice trio from the UK, which managed to land 54 bonefish following a brief tutorial.

We want to thank all of our lodge guests for making this a great season at Abaco Lodge. And we’re looking forward to another adventure beginning in October 2013!! Wishing you tight lines and great wines…
Anne and Ken Perkinson, Abaco Lodge Managers

Warm days, cool nights, and fish that haven't seen a fly or angler in months. Dates are filling up fast.