Itati Lodge

Upper Paraná River - #TROPHY

This is the perfect destination for those in search of a “golden trophy”. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity for a Parana River Grand Slam as you target Pacu and Pira Pita with dry flies.
Located in a traditional “estancia” on the banks of the Paraná River, our air-conditioned lodge provides the perfect balance between wilderness and comfort. Five well-appointed rooms accommodate up to 10 anglers. Our professional chef, will delight you with a blend of local flavors and international cuisine. The boats are docked just a few steps from your room and a short ride to the fishing action. This provides for a quick easy return to the comforts of the lodge for lunch between fishing sessions.
Season
Do not have a restricted season. You can fish year round.
Species
Dorado, Pacu and Pira-Pita
Ideal For

Solo anglers, and groups of friends

Wi-Fi
WiFi connection available

Equipped with

air conditioning in all bedrooms

The Fishing

The mythical Golden Dorado (salminus brasiliensis) is clearly the main target in this fishery. We target Dorado that range in size between 4 and 30 pounds however we have caught 40-pound fish.


The best adjective to describe this destination is “Trophy”. If you are looking to catch the Dorado of a lifetime a trip to Upper Parana is a must. This section of the Upper Parana is home to the largest Golden Dorado in South America. Every season, we land a handful of fish above 40 pounds!


The lodge is located on the upper section of the Parana River, approximately 90 miles downstream from the Yacyreta Dam. As a tail water, this stretch of river is known for its clear and stable water flow. Having these predictable fishing conditions is vitally important for the internationally traveling anglers.


On the upper Parana you’ll fish along the numerous river branches and channels casting towards cut banks, fallen trees and rock outcroppings. All of this structure is ideal habitat for a natural predator like the dorado.


Here you will be casting surface and sub surface flies around structure such as logs, rocks and fallen trees in search of a huge wild beast. While you’re staying at Itati Lodge, you can also fish for the omnivorous species, pacu and pira pita.


We will fish different stretches of waters with different techniques:

  • Large streamer to tempt the large Dorado on rocky structures on the main river, cut bank and fallen tree
  • Use Mouse patterns to tempt large dorados around slow water cut banks with multiple fallen trees and also other floating artificial such as gurglers, poppers and crease Flies
  • Target Dorados on sand bars where we will be sight fishing for them while the guide is push polling from the back of the boat, such as tarpon fishing on a flat. This technique is done one angler at the time
  • Target smaller internal creeks and canal where we will drifter while cast small dry flies and targeting Pacui, Pirapitas, Pacu and even small dorados

Testimonials

Great locations – exceptional staff at lodges – amazing meals

Tim Bartz
March 31, 2025

Omnivorous Species at Upper Parana

Pirapita

Pirapita, known locally as the “salmon of the river” ranges in size from 2 to 12 pounds. Once hooked, this extremely hard fighting fish is known for its acrobatic displays and multiple jumps. Being an omnivorous species, they are fished using large attractor flies that imitate insects, fruit, mice and even flowers. We target them on lighter equipment, 6 and 7 weight rods. Fishing for pirapita provides the perfect mid day break from casting large flies to Dorado.

Pacu

Pacu, is often referred to as the “permit of the river”. Like Pirapita they are also omnivorous and often found feeding on or near the surface on fruit and insects. This can create great sight fishing possibilities. Pacu are not known for their jumping ability but pound for pound are extremely hard fighting.

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Have questions about our fly fishing programs or need more information? We’re here to help!
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Have questions about our fly fishing programs or need more information? We’re here to help!