Paraguay is called as the “Land of Rivers”, as the country is surrounded by Argentina, Bolivia and Brazil. The rivers of Paraguay contain warm water fish species, unlike those of Amazonian region of Brazil.
Dorado is a species that is mainly found in Paraguayan rivers which is the most famous among the anglers, but is rare in other neighboring nations. Parana River is an important river of the Plata Basin and is also one of the largest rivers in the world.
In Southern Paraguay, the Tebicuary river flowing towards West is a famous fishing destination that is at a distance of 100 miles from the Paraguayan capital city Asuncion. Sportfishing is the peculiarity of this river, particularly for Dorado. The river is affected by rains, but the success of angling is mainly dependent on the level of the river. Tebicuary is best in spring and summer. Other important tributaries that enter into Paraguayan rivers are the Manduvira, which is situated 35 mile north to Asuncion. The Ypane, Negro, Apa and Aquidaban are some main rivers in Paraguay where fishing can be done for the entire year, but spring season is the best. Paraguay has several species of dorado and golden fish, but Salminus maxillosus is one of the important glamour species that jumps in the air, runs strong and fights till the last moment. This fish may gain 40 pounds and is the main target of the international anglers.
Two types of catfish are spotted for sportfishing which are striped catfish and the other spotted catfish, locally called surubi. The spotted catfish is found only in the Plata, whereas the striped catfish can be seen on both Plata and Amazon Basins. The spotted catfish rich 120 pounds and is a strong fighter. Pacu is a gamefish found in the lagoons and rivers of the Plata Basin and reaches 30 pounds or more. It is mainly hooked with snails, fruit, parts of fish and freshwater crabs.
Sportfishing in Paraguay is good for the entire year, but peak angling season is primarily from September till the early December. Many rivers are subjected to excessive fishing, including poaching and killing of the fish. So, follow the instructions that are provided by the government and the local people.
