Paso de la Patria

Paso de la Patria sits where the Paraguay river joins the Paraná, and the mixing of those waters over rocky ground creates the conditions that make it one of the most famous sport fishing spots on the continent. The target is the dorado, a powerful golden fish that runs upriver in the warm months, fights hard and jumps repeatedly, and the village fills each season with anglers, guides and boats, culminating in an international dorado fishing festival in late summer. Fishing here now runs largely on catch and release rules to protect stocks. Outside the fishing world the village has sandy river beaches, camping, and boat trips through the islands and channels, and it is an easy escape from Corrientes.

What to look for

• The river junction - where the Paraguay meets the Paraná in broad water.
• The dorado fishing - guided boats, tackle shops and the summer festival.
• The sandy beaches - river shores used for swimming and camping.
• The island channels - boat trips through the wetland maze.

When to go

September to March is the dorado season, with the peak in the warm months and the festival in late summer. Winter is quiet, cooler and better for birdwatching than fishing. Permits and closed seasons are set provincially and change.

Practical notes

Fishing is regulated with permits, size limits and release rules, and hiring a guide with a boat is close to essential. In peak season the village is busy and accommodation fills. Summer heat, humidity and mosquitoes are severe.

Nearby

Corrientes city lies southwest; Itatí is east along the river.

Key facts