February began with good water conditions. The result was 60 golden dorado caught between 3 boats during the first week. Most of the fish were in the 6-10 pound range, but we also found a few 12-13 pounders. Justin S. landed a beauty 14-pounder while Daniel, who shared the boat with him, found an 11-pounder the same day. As the month progressed the number of fish caught remained stable. Weather and water levels were on our side, too.
Throughout the month we visited the upper part of the marsh, exploring a branch of the Hilton Chanel, and using floating lines and drys. Some clients, including Pablo S. and Sebastian C., experimented with ultralight 2- and 4-weight rods. When a dorado felt the sting of the hook, it wasn’t easy to stop them. But we still managed to land a few.
In addition to the upper, we swung the Corriente River with the standard streamers, but we also had success fishing Dalberg Divers and mouse patterns on floating lines.
Alfredo A. took home Big Fish Honors for his 17-pound powerhouse. The biggest of the season. Congrats, Alfredo!
Near month’s end the dorado began spreading out, but the population in the marsh is stable. A few storms rolled through, cooling the water by a couple degrees. Fishing remains hot.
February ends with a total of 614 fish landed.
—Jose Caparrós
Fishing Manager, Pira Lodge
