Overview

Dorado or golden Dorado (Salminus brasiliensis) is a large river fish found in central and east-central South America. Despite having Salminus in its name, the Dorado is not related to any species of salmon, nor to the saltwater fish also called Dorado. It is very popular among recreational anglers and supports large commercial fisheries.

The golden Dorado has a large head, with powerful jaws filled with sharp teeth. It reaches maturity around 37 cm (15 in) long, and is golden colored. The average size of the golden Dorado is about 3–10 kg (6.6–22.0 lb). The largest recorded size is 100 cm (39 in) length and 31.4 kg (69 lb).The golden Dorado lives in warm freshwater habitats and they eat a wide variety of prey fish. One of the Dorado’s favorite prey is the sabalo, a type of schooling fish typically 1–4 kg (2–9 lb) in weight.

The aggressive nature of the dorado, its high jumps, great fighting strength, and stamina have created a competitive market among anglers from all corners of the world, traversing South American waters in hopes of hooking a dorado. Ultimately, it has been recognized as a very important fly-fishing targeted species. Its aggressive behavior, fast runs, impressive strength, and brave fighting - frequently going airborne in the attempt to loosen itself from the hook, make this species a must-fish for fly fishermen.

The Fishing

The Most effective flies used are the Clouser Deep Minnows, Andino Deceiver, Lefty\'s Deceiver, Poppers, and other minnow-imitating flies. Equipment used ranges from #6 to #10, depending on the size of the average fishstock. These fish usually take flies both on surface and sub-surface. It is common the use of Intermediate and Sinking-Tip fly lines in places with fast current, preferred by this species.

The fly must be worked with long, slow pulls. The Dorado though being an avid hunter is also a lazy chaser. So, if the fly moves too fast or with short, fast movements the Dorado usually stops pursuing.

Flies tied for Dorado usually contain lots of flash. This fish likes shiny, colorful flies or black ones when the water is muddy or turbid. In the State of São Paulo, Brazil, clousers tied in white and blue deliver the best results. Due to the Dorado\'s very sharp teeth, it is recommended that the angler uses a steel wire or a good piece of fluorocarbon monofilament bite tippet, to avoid losing the fish and the lure.

There are other species in the Paraná River such as; Pacu (Piaractus Mesopotamicus), Pira Pita (Brycon Orbignanus), Surubi (Platistoma Fasciatum), as well as the main source of food for the Dorado, the Bogas (which is similar to the American Carp).

Gear and equipment

RODS

We recommend #6/7/8/9 fast action rods, so big streamers with lead eyes do not bother your casting.

REELS

The reel has to have a good brake. The backing should be well loaded (150 yards of 20 pounds), large arbor if possible.

LINES

You will need tropical fly lines for saltwater. We advise to bring one clear/sinking tip and one floating line.

We will use 9 feet leaders that would finish in a diameter no smaller than 20/30 Lb. resistance.

Dorado flies are big streamers tied in #1/0 al #5/0 hooks. Every fly will be tied on a stainless steel knottable leader of not less than 8 inches long and 15 to 30 Lb. test strength.

FLIES

You will need average two dozen dorado flies in various patterns for your trip; but we are able to provide you with the right fly fishing flies. It is important to have a bunch of flies with heavy lead eyes, some medium weight flies with bead chain eyes. Sizes should be mostly #3/0’s with a few #4/0’s and a few smaller #2’s. Flies should be darker patterns and combination with black, and also need some very light or white patterns for white sand flats.Some of the best patterns are streamers tied with muddler head and well loaded of.