The floating dock where anglers meet their guides and board the boats is conveniently located just a few yards from the lodge. While most of the fishing at Suindá entails blind casting from a boat to river-bank structure, island shorelines, or submerged timber and rocks, a number of shallow sandbars along the river offer sight-fishing and even occasional wading opportunities, depending on the river’s level and the abundance of sábalo, golden dorado’s primary forage. The bottom of the sandbars is mostly hard-packed sand, nevertheless, flats-wading footwear or water shoes with a suitable sole are highly recommended to ensure good footing and protection against rays and any partially buried structure or debris.
Golden dorado are the main target species, and the upper Paraná is renowned for regularly yielding trophies exceeding 20 pounds. But pacú and pira pitá, two other strong and challenging species, are also available in the area. Both are omnivorous and will readily take surface flies imitating fruits and berries. Pira pitá, usually in the 4- to 6-pound range, are the more acrobatic of the duo. However, pacú, which often exceed 10 pounds in waters near Suindá, are incredibly powerful and capable of blazing runs.
Fishing Schedule
Dorado are the epitome of a dawn-and-dusk-oriented predator. To ensure anglers are on the water during the most productive times, the fishing at Suindá is split into two shifts. The morning shift begins at about 6 a.m. after an early breakfast and ends at about 11 a.m. The late afternoon/evening shift starts around 4 p.m., after lunch and a siesta or some leisure time, and culminates at or just after dusk. The schedule does change slightly based on the time of year, current weather, and fishing conditions.
Boats
Suindá Lodge has a fleet of modern 21- to 24-foot bay boats designed to reach the fishing grounds quickly and comfortably, float relatively shallow and provide a stable fishing platform for anglers casting from both the fore and aft decks. All boats are equipped with electric trolling motors and anchors to maneuver quietly into position and remain within comfortable casting range of fish or their likely hangouts.
Loaner Gear
While Suindá guides try to keep a few fly outfits to lend guests in the event their gear is misplaced or damaged during the trip, the remote location of the lodge can make fixing or replacing tackle difficult. It’s a great idea to bring at least one spare rod and reel as well as plenty of flies, leaders, extra fly lines, pliers, and other essentials. You should also bring your own rain jacket, polarized sunglasses, and water shoes or flats-wading footwear for the sandbars.
