Don Joaquin River Lodge
Location
Esquina, Argentina
Fish
Season
Year round, Prime time is August to March
Information
Esquina, known as the Dorado capital, invites you to take on the challenge of the legendary tiger of the rivers, a pursuit that draws fishermen from around the world. Each day here brings new adventures—exploring the winding deltas, spotting native wildlife, or simply surrendering to the magic of this extraordinary place.
You will also be able to target other species as Surubi Cat fish, Pira Pita, Payara and season depending – the Pacu.
ACCOMODATION
Perfectly located at the confluence of the Paraná and Corriente rivers, Don Joaquín River Lodge is more than just a destination—it is the gateway to an unparalleled experience in the heart of Esquina, Corrientes. In this privileged corner of nature, the landscape unfolds in all its splendour, offering a paradise for both avid anglers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
With 12 perfectly appointed en-suite river view rooms, with A/C, and private bathroom, all with Queen or King beds, this luxurious lodge offers free laundry, maid and wi-fi service, and in the spring and summer season one can enjoy the swimming pool and relax whilst waiting for the evening meal. Don Juaquin River Lodge is ideal for anglers and families. The heart of the lodge is the veranda, with fantastic views of the Corrientes river and ample areas to relax and take in the scenery. Aside from the 14m swimming pool, there are two living rooms and three dining rooms together with a BBQ terrace , all set within beautiful gardens.
Being a family run lodge, the warmth and hospitality of the owners is truly felt. The lodge has been painstakingly designed to make you feel at home, surrounded by understated luxury and breathtaking nature. The cuisine, combines homemadeflavours with a gourmet touch whilst ensuring a tribute to the regional traditions. The cuisine is outstanding and the lodge offers all home-made food using local ingredients and traditional cooking styles, accompanied by a selection of fine Argentinian wines. Guests interested in cooking and food preparation are also welcome to join the team in the kitchen and try their hand at preparing local dishes.
Breakfast is served at approximately 7 am and by 8 am you will already be out onthe way to the fishing spots, for a full day’s fishing before returning to the lodge between 6:30 and 7:30 pm. Lunch is had on the island where among other delicacies there will be empanadas and a BBQ whilst giving the anglers time to relax and a chance to meet up and share their experiences. It is also possible for a fully prepared lunch box to be prepared and provided and then fish the entire day.
The lodge can also assist with supplying fishing equipment if required.
Non-Angling Activities and Options
Internet / Communications
Wifi is (weather and location dependent) available for guests.
FISHING
The Golden Dorado known as the river tiger, due to its ferocious hunting style, combined with its strength and agility, has become a prized catch and is quickly becoming every angler’s dream. The explosive takes, powerful fights and acrobatic runs will have you catching your breath and have your heart racing.
The fishing schedule, of approximately 8 hours each day; is split into two sessions – a morning session and an evening session. The morning session typically starts just after breakfast when the guide will be ready to take you on the skiff at around 08.00 until around 13.00 where lunch is on the island together with the other guests at the lodge.
You will be able to fish a wide variety of techniques from drifting from the boat to wet wading and exploring the islands. The choices are endless.
After lunch on the island, one can continue to fish until approximately 18.30 then come back to the lodge in preparation for the evening 3 course meal.
Fishing from skiffs, it is recommended to have two rods with you – 6-8wt with full floating or intermediate sink tropical lines. The skiffs have a casting deck on the bow and transom allowing for (2) anglers to fish at the same time where you will cast simultaneously into small runs, or anywhere water is flowing by or through structure.
A 9 weight rod might be used if casting big streamers in certain conditions and situations. The lodge can supply flies if required. Although much of the fishing is performed from boats we sometimes wade barefoot or in booties, fishing the structures and shore line depending were the fish are hiding.
Each day you will be fishing new waters, working different locations in its various forms, like runs, inlet/outlets of lagoons, small side channels, tributaries bringing bait fish, and on and on. The guides have grown up in and around Esquina and know the waters better than anyone. You will find them to be professional and skilled in fly fishing, spinning, baitcasting, and traditional techniques., bilingual and very passionate about fishing for dorado.
TRAVEL
Guests fly into Buenos Aires International Airport, and we highly recommend at least one overnight stay in the city, giving yourself time to relax after a long flight and acclimatise to the fabulous country. A first-class overnight bus with reclining seats from Buenos Aires to Esquina is perhaps the easiest way to travel to the lodge, taking 7-8 hours. Alternatively, daily flights to Corrientes, Parana or Santa Fe and then a 4–5- hour transfer to the lodge are also options.
When is the best time to visit?
The fishing season runs year-round. Prime time season is from August to March (spring and summer with temperatures varying between 20 and 32C) – with sizes between 2 and 20 pounds.
Typical Length of Stay
The typical length of stay at Don Juaquin River Lodge is seven (7) nights with six (6) days of fishing but shorter stays are also possible.
Typical Itinerary
Thursday: Depart home
Friday: Arrive Buenos Aires and overnight
Saturday: Transfer to the lodge
Saturday – Thursday: Six full days of guided fishing at Don Juaquin River Lodge
Friday: Depart the lodge and transfer to Buenos Aires and overnight stay.
Saturday: Depart for home
Documents Required
Valid passport. Citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK, and other Western European nations do not need a visa for tourist trips of up to ninety days.
Travel Insurance
Prior to booking, please ensure that your travel insurance covers for travelling to remote areas and for the type of activities you are planning. We highly recommend also considering a Global Rescue Membership
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE
We have worked hard to be able to provide you with the best prices possible. If you are quoted a lower price we will endeavour to beat it.
