- Paul Bristow-
The world of fishing has one debate that will continue until the end of time. What is the hardest fighting fish that swims? Most anglers who have fished both freshwater and saltwater environments will agree that saltwater fish generally have much more size, speed, and stamina than their freshwater counterparts, however, as in any walk of life, there are always exceptions to the general rule.

Among species that are entirely confined to freshwater, several receive great praise from anglers. Peacock bass are noted for hard strikes and significant pulling power, while snakeheads are infamous for their violent top water strikes and fierce temperament. Pirarucu, alligator gar, and white sturgeon are lauded for their immense size and powerful runs. Amazonian catfish are known to wage daylong battles similar to those experienced with large billfish and sharks. In this cabal of freshwater fiends, the Golden Dorado of South America has a table reserved near the top as one of the best fighting fish that swims in any environment.

Golden Dorado
Dorado are one of the most unique and attractive fish of South America. A broad golden body is accentuated by brilliant hues of deep blue and purple near the eye socket and gill plate area. The fins are flame red in color, with the immense tail split up the middle by a dark colored bar. The head is massive and houses several rows of razor sharp teeth. The fish is a fantastic leaper and makes sustained runs employing the powerful tail. Dorado meat is also prized for its culinary value, commonly prepared whole on hot coals while basted with a variety of herbs and oil.

One of the best places in the world to fish for dorado on artificial lures is the Uruguay River bordering Concordia, Argentina. This is a classic provincial city in what some might consider the heart of Argentina cattle country. Slow rolling meadows give way to swift rivers, creating mineral rich soil that is ideal for both farming and ranching. The wines and beef from this region are world-renowned, as is the bird watching. The main attraction near Concorida is one of Argentina's largest hydroelectric dams. The Salto Grande Argentinean Uruguayan Hydroelectric Complex provides power throughout much of the region. Often called La Zona or 'the zone' by locals, the area near the dam is closed to commercial fishing and offers only a limited number of recreational fishing permits per season. Fish like dorado and surubi catfish abound here and biologists often accompany the fishing boats during their daily outings. Fishing here is catch-and-release, with barbless hooks used to minimize the impact on the fishery.

Saltwater Tackle for Freshwater Monsters
One of the main attractions for anglers visiting La Zona is that fishing is done entirely with artificial lures. Anglers may choose to pursue dorado with fly rods, conventional bait casting tackle, or heavy spinning gear. Fast action 9 or 10 weight fly rods in the 9-foot range are the norm here. A high quality drag and at least 250 yards of backing is recommended for fighting fish in the extreme current conditions. Approximately 6 feet of high quality leader material is required, with sufficient bulk to handle large flies and assist in the landing of fish.

One of the finest leader materials I have used in any environment is made by Triple Fish. Triple Fish 100% pure fluorocarbon and traditional saltwater leader material are some of the strongest and most reasonably priced leaders on the market today. The suppleness of Triple Fish fluorocarbon puts it in a unique category of lines that have both durability and castability. While fluorocarbon leaders are fine for smaller dorado, a short length of 30-pound hard wire should be added to the end of the leader for larger fish. For anglers who prefer bait casting and spinning gear, fast action rods in the 7 to 8 foot range are ideal. A rock solid drag and 200 yards of premium monofilament or braided line will get the job done. Many of the best lure selections for fishing La Zona are produced on the gulf coast of Florida. The Mirrolure 111MR performed flawlessly in the swift currents of the Uruguay River because this plug is designed to run true at speeds of up to 7 knots. We also had great success with 4 oz. grouper jigs made by Pumpkin Jigs and employed custom heavy-duty wire leaders made by the terminal tackle folks at Love's Lures.

Whether you enjoy casting artificial lures or fly-fishing, the Golden Dorado is one species that all avid anglers should add to their list of quarry. The gill rattling jumps combined with incredible pulling power will make saltwater aficionados think they have hooked a hybrid between a jack crevalle and a tarpon. Florida anglers should remember that they can pursue exotic species without ever leaving the sunshine state. Species like peacock bass and cobra snakeheads are just a short drive away for most Florida residents. Tangling with these explosive species close to home might just spark a curiosity to explore freshwater angling opportunities in other lands.

Paul Bristow has written articles for various outdoor publications since 1999. He is currently the manager of Apollo Beach Bait & Tackle Company, LLC that distributes the popular Love's Lures line of baits. Pictures for this article were provided by James Reed and Steven Ryan of the Chicago metropolitan area. Questions about exotic species fishing can be e-mailed to Paul at loveslures@msn.com