Don Joaquin River Lodge

The fishing centres on golden dorado, a powerful predatory species known for aggressive takes, strong runs and repeated jumps. Anglers explore both the Corriente and Paraná rivers, along with the channels, islands and backwaters formed where the two systems meet. The variety of water allows guides to adjust each day according to river levels, weather, bait movement and recent fishing activity.

Anglers can fish with fly tackle, spinning equipment, baitcasting gear or traditional methods. Fly fishing usually involves casting large baitfish patterns, streamers and surface flies around current seams, banks, structure and likely ambush points. Floating, intermediate and sinking lines may all be used depending on water depth and flow. Conventional anglers can fish plugs, jerkbaits, topwater lures and other artificial presentations.

Fishing is carried out from purpose-built boats, normally with two anglers and one local guide. Days generally begin early, with anglers leaving the lodge at around 7:00 am and returning in the early evening. Lunch may be served as an island asado beside the river, although packed lunches can be arranged for anglers who prefer to spend as much time as possible fishing.

Golden dorado are available through much of the year, with August through March commonly considered the main season. Pacú fishing is generally strongest during the warmer summer months, while surubí, pira pitá, tararira and other species provide additional opportunities throughout the river system.

Don Joaquín River Lodge overlooks the Corriente River and has 12 air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms. Accommodation includes four master suites, four double rooms and four triple rooms, allowing the lodge to host couples, solo anglers and larger fishing groups.

The master suites have king-size beds and views across the lodge grounds. Double rooms contain two queen-size beds, while triple rooms have three single beds. Each room measures approximately 38 square metres and includes a private bathroom, air conditioning and views of either the river or surrounding landscape.

The main lodge has spacious living and dining areas, a bar and a broad riverside veranda. Large windows keep the rooms connected to the surrounding landscape, while the swimming pool provides a comfortable place to relax after fishing. Wi-Fi and laundry service are available, and massage treatments can be arranged separately.

Meals combine Argentine cooking with regional ingredients and a more refined lodge-style presentation. Breakfast is served before fishing, lunch is provided on the river and dinner is served after anglers return to the lodge. Island asados, local beef, homemade dishes and Argentine wines are an important part of the experience.

Don Joaquín River Lodge is located near Esquina in Corrientes Province, approximately 600 kilometres north of Buenos Aires. The lodge sits beside the Corriente River at Ruta Nacional 12, kilometre 694.

Most international anglers fly into Buenos Aires before continuing to Esquina. The simplest option is a private road transfer, which takes approximately six to seven hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Transfers can be arranged for individuals or groups.

An overnight coach from Buenos Aires is another option. Sleeper coaches usually leave Buenos Aires in the evening and arrive in Esquina early the following morning. From the Esquina coach terminal, the lodge is approximately ten minutes away by road.

Anglers can also take a domestic flight from Buenos Aires to Corrientes, Paraná or Santa Fe, followed by a private ground transfer. These routes involve a shorter flight but still require several hours of driving, so the best option will depend on flight schedules, group size and the wider Argentina itinerary.

Anglers should normally plan at least one night in Buenos Aires before or after the lodge stay. This provides additional time between international flights and the onward transfer to Esquina.

Rates Per Angler:
Starting from  $4,800.00 per person

What’s Included:

What’s Not Included:

Day 1: Arrival at Don Joaquín River Lodge
Arrive in Buenos Aires and continue to Esquina by private transfer, overnight coach or domestic flight and road transfer. On arrival at the lodge, anglers check into their rooms, meet the guides and prepare equipment for the following morning.

Days 2 to 7: Fishing Days
Each day begins with an early breakfast before anglers leave the lodge at approximately 7:00 am. Two anglers fish from each boat with a local guide, exploring the Corriente River, Paraná River and surrounding delta channels. Lunch is served on the water, often as an island asado, before fishing continues through the afternoon. Anglers return to the lodge in the early evening for drinks and dinner.

Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, anglers leave the lodge and transfer back to Buenos Aires or continue with their wider travel plans in Argentina. An additional night in Buenos Aires may be required before the international departure.

What level of fishing experience is required?
Don Joaquín can accommodate both experienced anglers and those fishing for golden dorado for the first time. The fishing is mainly boat-based and does not involve much walking or wading. Fly anglers should be prepared to cast large flies repeatedly, often in warm conditions. Previous experience with double-haul casting is useful but not essential.

What tackle should anglers bring?
Fly anglers will generally need 7-weight to 9-weight rods, strong reels and a selection of floating, intermediate and sinking lines. Large baitfish patterns, streamers and surface flies are commonly used, together with wire or heavy bite-resistant leaders. Conventional anglers should bring suitable spinning or baitcasting outfits, strong reels, plugs, topwater lures and replacement terminal tackle.

How many anglers fish from each boat?
Boats are normally arranged for two anglers and one guide. Anglers can rotate positions during the day so both have time fishing from the front of the boat. Private boat arrangements may be available for solo anglers at an additional cost.

What is the best time to visit?
The main fishing season generally runs from August through March. The warmer months can also provide opportunities for pacú, while golden dorado can be caught throughout much of the year. River levels, rainfall and water temperature can influence the fishing from one week to the next.

Is fishing equipment included?
Fishing equipment is not included in the standard package. Anglers should bring their own rods, reels, lines, flies, lures and terminal tackle unless rental equipment has been arranged in advance.