Tag: family-friendly fishing

Garbutt’s Fishing Lodge
Updated on

December 16, 2025

Permit Fishing off the point of Joe Taylor Creek, Belize

Garbutt’s Fishing Lodge, nestled in the traditional Belizean community of Punta Gorda, offers anglers unparalleled access to some of the world’s most productive permit fishing grounds. Situated at the point of Joe Taylor Creek, just minutes from the town center, the lodge provides an ideal home base for experiencing the rich fisheries of southern Belize.

Specializes in fly fishing for permit; other species are also available.

Punta Gorda enjoys a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and a distinct dry and rainy season, offering year-round fishing opportunities.

Focus on fly fishing, particularly for permit, with access to hundreds of flats within thirty minutes of the lodge.

Recognized as the capital of permit fishing within Belize, providing anglers with a high success rate in pursuing this elusive species.

Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Belize fly fishing trips and packages!

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The Fly Fishing Experience at Garbutt’s Lodge

Garbutt’s Fishing Lodge is renowned for its exceptional permit fishing. With access to numerous permit flats within a short boat ride, anglers can expect ample opportunities to target this prized species. The lodge’s experienced guides, including the esteemed Garbutt brothers—Scully, Oliver, and Eworth—bring over fifteen years of expertise, ensuring a rewarding fishing experience.

Accommodations and Staff

The lodge features six spacious, air-conditioned guest rooms, each equipped with two beds, private baths, hot showers, cable TV, wireless internet, and decks overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The main lodge houses the restaurant and the Grand Slam Bar, serving as the social hub where guests can enjoy Belizean home-cooked meals prepared by the Garbutt family. The communal dining experience fosters a family-like atmosphere, making guests feel right at home.

Garbutt’s Fishing Lodge 2025 – 2026 Rates

2025 Package Rates

Double Occupancy (2 per boat / 2 per room)
- 3 Nights / 2 Days of fishing – $1,550.00
- 4 Nights / 3 Days of fishing – $2,025.00
- 5 Nights / 4 Days of fishing – $2,500.00
- 6 Nights / 5 Days of fishing – $2,975.00
- 7 Nights / 6 Days of fishing – $3,450.00
Single Occupancy (1 per boat / 1 per room)
- 3 Nights / 2 Days of fishing – $2,180.00
- 4 Nights / 3 Days of fishing – $2,870.00
- 5 Nights / 4 Days of fishing – $3,560.00
- 6 Nights / 5 Days of fishing – $4,250.00
- 7 Nights / 6 Days of fishing – $4,940.00
Rates are in US$, and are subject to change

2026 Package Rates

Double Occupancy (2 per boat / 2 per room)
- 3 Nights / 2 Days of fishing – $1,625.00
- 4 Nights / 3 Days of fishing – $2,125.00
- 5 Nights / 4 Days of fishing – $2,625.00
- 6 Nights / 5 Days of fishing – $3,125.00
- 7 Nights / 6 Days of fishing – $3,625.00
Single Occupancy (1 per boat / 1 per room)
- 3 Nights / 2 Days of fishing – $2,300.00
- 4 Nights / 3 Days of fishing – $3,025.00
- 5 Nights / 4 Days of fishing – $3,750.00
- 6 Nights / 5 Days of fishing – $4,475.00
- 7 Nights / 6 Days of fishing – $5,200.00
*With daily flights to and from Belize City to Punta Gorda packages of any length can be arranged. Trips can start and end on any day of the week. Lastly, for those looking to build a custom package with time off the water while at Garbutt’s please contact us for details.

Included in package rates: accommodations in our comfortable, air-conditioned guest rooms; daily guided fishing trips with experienced guides; all meals featuring Belizean home-cooked cuisine; 9% Hotel tax and 12.5% Sales Tax; Domestic beverages (Beer, alcohol, and soda); Transfer from Punta Gorda airstrip to and from the lodge; Marine Park Entry fees.

Not included in rate: Round trip international flights to Belize City; Round trip domestic flights from Belize City to Punta Gorda; Belizean Fishing License (purchased at lodge, $25.00 USD per person); Gratuities for guides and lodge staff; Flies, Leaders, Terminal Tackle, Equipment.

At Garbutt’s Fishing Lodge, our packages are designed to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable fishing experience. Included in package rates are ; and round-trip transfers between Punta Gorda Airstrip and the lodge. Not included in the package rates are international flights to and from Belize; domestic flights between Belize City and Punta Gorda; alcoholic beverages and sodas; fishing equipment and flies (though rentals are available); gratuities for guides and staff; and any additional tours or activities outside the standard fishing itinerary.

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Embark on the ultimate fly fishing adventure at Garbutt’s Fishing Lodge. With its prime location, experienced guides, and comfortable accommodations, it’s the perfect destination for anglers seeking world-class permit fishing. Contact us today to book your stay and become part of the Garbutt’s family.

For more information or to make a reservation, please contact us directly.

More About Garbutt’s Fishing Lodge

Situated on a picturesque point along Joe Taylor Creek, the lodge is conveniently located within Punta Gorda, just a short walk from the town center. Guests are treated to stunning views, with the creek at the back and the Caribbean Sea at the front. The main building houses the “Grand Slam Bar,” a charming establishment known for its excellent decor and ambiance. Culinary offerings include a combination of fresh seafood dishes and traditional Creole cuisine, such as stewed chicken, pork, rice, and beans with fresh vegetables, all prepared by the Garbutt family.

For over fifteen years, the Garbutt brothers—Scully, Oliver, and Eworth—have been guiding anglers through the rich waters of Punta Gorda, extending east to the Sapodilla Cayes and north to Placencia. After years of collaborating with various lodges in the region, they established their own venture: Garbutt’s Fishing Lodge. This family-run operation, with Dennis Garbutt serving as the Lodge Manager, offers a fishing-focused experience deeply rooted in Belizean hospitality.
December 16, 2025
Aurelia Lodge

Updated on

December 16, 2025

Aurelia Lodge, Estancia Rosita and Estancia Aurelia are situated on the southern bank of the Rio Grande, and occupy the large triangular tract of land between the Rio Grande and its tributary, the Rio Menendez. For years, the owner, Ricardo Hermoso, was occupied with other businesses, not the least of which was running these two working ranches, and found it more expedient to lease most of the Rio Grande water to another outfitter, and operate the fishing on a part time basis, primarily on his 15 miles of the Rio Menendez.

However, when the lease ran up in 2006, Senor Hermoso decided to hire a fishing manager, refurbish the lodge, and run a full time fishing program for the duration of the sea-run trout season.

Senor Hermoso recruited a Rio Grande native, Peter Pereira Mullins to run the operation. Peter, who has fly fished the Rio Grande all his life, holds a degree in Tourism and Hotel Management, had also guided at Despedida Lodge for 7 seasons. Peter recruited a staff of experienced and enthusiastic guides and has personally trained them all.

Sea-run brown trout

8 miles Rio Grande + 15 miles Rio Menendez double bank fishing

Traditional estancia style with modern comfort

2 anglers per guide, 8 rods total

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The Rio Menendez is a smaller river, with more intimate water and is a bit more technical. Wading the Rio Menendez requires a stealthier approach and frequently smaller flies, and presents a challenge that appeals to many experienced anglers.

While “bigger water” than Menendez, the Rio Grande is really a medium size river, with gentle gradients and easily waded, gravel-bottom pools. While the pools can be covered adequately with a single-handed rod, double-handers have become popular and deal with the famous Tierra del Fuego winds more efficiently. Aurelia Lodge’s pools are varied and interesting with island pools, traditional runs, undercut banks and meanders. All the pools are ideal fly water.

All told, Aurelia Lodge offers 8 miles of double bank fishing on the Rio Grande and 15 miles of double bank fishing on the Rio Menendez.

The lodge is approximately 83 kilometers from the airport at Rio Grande City. The main lodge is set back several miles from the Rio Grande. Aurelia Lodge blends the traditional estancia styles with more modern. For example, dinner may be served in a modern and elegant formal dining room one evening, and the following, a traditional gaucho “asado” served in the “Quincho” dining room.

The fishing day is divided into two 4-hour fishing sessions to take advantage of the most productive, low-light periods of the day. Anglers depart Aurelia each morning at 8:00 am for the river and their assigned beat. Each two anglers will have their own guide and 4 WD vehicle equipped with exterior rod holders. You can drive right up to most of the pools so very little walking is required.

Those fishing the Rio Grande will meet at the comfortable fishing hut overlooking the river, for a sumptuous midday meal followed by the traditional siesta. Anglers on the Menendez return to the main lodge for lunch and siesta. You head back out in late afternoon and fish until dark. Then all will return to Aurelia’s main lodge for a gourmet dinner featuring a selection of exquisite Argentinean wines.

Aurelia Lodge Rates

Please contact us for Aurelia Lodge 2025-2026 rates and availability.

Rates are per person in USD$ and subject to change. Contact us for seasonal rates and package information.

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What’s Included

Included: Roundtrip transfers from Rio Grande airport to the Lodge; 7 nights double occupancy accommodations; 6 full days guided fishing, 2 anglers per guide; all meals with fine selection of wines and beers; hard liquors and cocktails before meals at the lodge; internet access; fishing license.

What’s Not Included

Not Included: International airfare to Buenos Aires; hotels or transfers in Buenos Aires; airfare from Buenos Aires to Rio Grande; ground transfers from Rio Grande; personal equipment, laundry service; staff and guide gratuities.

Aurelia Lodge, Estancia Rosita and Estancia Aurelia are situated on the southern bank of the Rio Grande, and occupy the large triangular tract of land between the Rio Grande and its tributary, the Rio Menendez. For years, the owner, Ricardo Hermoso, was occupied with other businesses, not the least of which was running these two working ranches, and found it more expedient to lease most of the Rio Grande water to another outfitter, and operate the fishing on a part time basis, primarily on his 15 miles of the Rio Menendez. However, when the lease ran up in 2006, Senor Hermoso decided to hire a fishing manager, refurbish the lodge, and run a full time fishing program for the duration of the sea-run trout season. Senor Hermoso recruited a Rio Grande native, Peter Pereira Mullins to run the operation. Peter, who has fly fished the Rio Grande all his life, holds a degree in Tourism and Hotel Management, had also guided at Despedida Lodge for 7 seasons. Peter recruited a staff of experienced and enthusiastic guides and has personally trained them all. The Rio Menendez is a smaller river, with more intimate water and is a bit more technical. Wading the Rio Menendez requires a stealthier approach and frequently smaller flies, and presents a challenge that appeals to many experienced anglers. While “bigger water” than Menendez, the Rio Grande is really a medium size river, with gentle gradients and easily waded, gravel-bottom pools. While the pools can be covered adequately with a single-handed rod, double-handers have become popular and deal with the famous Tierra del Fuego winds more efficiently. Aurelia Lodge’s pools are varied and interesting with island pools, traditional runs, undercut banks and meanders. All the pools are ideal fly water. All told, Aurelia Lodge offers 8 miles of double bank fishing on the Rio Grande and 15 miles of double bank fishing on the Rio Menendez. The lodge is approximately 83 kilometers from the airport at Rio Grande City. The main lodge is set back several miles from the Rio Grande. Aurelia Lodge blends the traditional estancia styles with more modern. For example, dinner may be served in a modern and elegant formal dining room one evening, and the following, a traditional gaucho “asado” Served in the “Quincho” dining room. The fishing day is divided into two 4-hour fishing sessions to take advantage of the most productive, low-light periods of the day. Anglers depart Aurelia each morning at 8:00 am for the river and their assigned beat. Each two anglers will have their own guide and 4 WD vehicle equipped with exterior rod holders. You can drive right up to most of the pools so very little walking is required. Those fishing the Rio Grande will meet at the comfortable fishing hut over looking the river, for a sumptuous midday meal followed by the traditional siesta. Anglers on the Menendez return to the main lodge for lunch and siesta. You head back out in late afternoon and fish until dark. Then all will return to Aurelia’s main lodge for a gourmet dinner featuring a selection of exquisite Argentinean wines. The 2018 rate at Aurelia Lodge is: February / March = $6,290 US per person per week and April = $5,032 US per person per week. Cost for a non-angler guest is 50% of the angler rate. Included: Roundtrip transfers from Rio Grande airport to the Lodge; 7 nights double occupancy accommodations; 6 full days guided fishing, 2 anglers per guide; all meals with fine seletion of wines and beers; hard liquors and cocktails before meals at the lodge; internet access; fishing license. Not Included: International airfare to Buenos Aires; hotels or transfers in Buenos Aires; airfare from Buenos Aires to Rio Grande; ground transfers from Rio Grande; fishing license; personal equipment, laundry service; staff and guide gratuities.

December 16, 2025

Country Haven Lodge

Country Haven Lodge is located in Gray Rapids, just 2 miles south of Blackville on the lower section the Main Southwest Miramichi River. The Miramichi is a name well known to anglers around the world as synonymous with Atlantic salmon, hosting the largest run of the species in North America. Over the past 25 years, Country Haven has become the premier lodge on the Miramichi watershed.

Owner Byron “Byzie” Coughlan grew up in Gray Rapids just a few miles downstream of the lodge. Starting with a couple of productive family owned salmon pools, Byzie built a beautiful 4,000 square foot log lodge situated on a bluff overlooking the river. He then began buying and leasing other nearby salmon pools. As the business grew, he added more pools and 2 more cabins (a 2 and a 3 bedroom, ideal for small groups) and Country Haven now accommodates 18 anglers. The lodge is one of the few properties on the river to receive a Four Star Canada Select rating from the Provincial government.

Country Haven’s fishermen enjoy exclusive use of 11 excellent private salmon pools. On any given day as needed, the lodge also day leases as many as another 10 private pools. These include salmon pools on the Miramichi, as well as the Renous, the Northwest Miramichi and the beautiful Cains, all famous tributaries of the Main. This gives Country Haven a wide variety of types of pools that will produce under a myriad of conditions.

Country Haven employs a staff of experienced and talented guides, most who have grown up on the banks of the Miramichi and many with 20 or more years experience guiding. They not only know every rock and lie in the river, they are expert boatman and skilled flyfishers and extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of salmon fishing. As New Brunswick #1 Certified Professional Guides they are also fully trained in CPR and first aid and are dedicated to your safety, comfort and most importantly, your having fun and success on the river!

The Miramichi enjoys a 6-month long season, from April 15 until October 15th, The first month is “Spring Salmon Season” fishing for the outward bound fish who spawned the previous fall and are headed back to the sea. The “Summer Run” fish, dime bright and fresh from the salt start entering the river around the first of June, and the heart of the summer run is from June 20th through July. Fresh runs continue entering on each major raise of water and August can also provide excellent fishing if river conditions are good. Fishing again picks up in September as the famous Miramichi “Fall Run” begins and continues until the close of the season October 15th.

During the summer run, the camp fishes a split day from about 8:00 am until noon. You return to the lodge for the main meal of the day, and then head back out for the evening session, from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm. A light evening supper is served at 9:30 pm. As the days shorten in late September, the camp goes on the fall fishing schedule, fishing from around 8:00 am until 5:00 pm, taking a shore lunch on the river and having the main meal of the day in early evening.

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Country Haven Lodge 2023 Full Fishing Package Rates

Packages of any duration are available. Country Haven enjoys about an 85% re-booking rate so early reservations are recommended.

Package	Base Rate	15% HST	Total Rate
7-night / 6-day	CAD $ 4,125	CAD $ 618.75	CAD $ 4,743.75
6-night / 5-day	CAD $ 3,475.00	CAD $ 521.15	CAD $ 3,996.25
5-night / 4-day	CAD $2,825.00	CAD $ 423.75	CAD $ 3,248.75
4-night / 3-day	CAD $2,175.00	CAD $ 326.25	CAD $ 2,501.25

Included: Accommodations in lodge of private cabins; all meals and soft beverages; daily guided fishing, 1 guide per 2 – 3 anglers; all necessary transportation while at lodge (boats & vehicles); use of lodge’s tackle if needed; all provincial and federal taxes.

Not included: Transportation to the lodge; NB salmon license; gratuities; alcoholic beverages (BYOB); flies, leaders and other terminal tackle (available for purchase at the lodge), airport transfers for those flying into Fredericton or Moncton (transfers arranged at additional charge).

January 29, 2019

Panyame Conservancy | Mbadzi Camp
Updated on

March 8, 2025

Mbadzi Camp – Panyame Conservancy’s Hidden Gem

Nestled within the remote beauty of Mozambique’s Panyame Wildlife Conservancy, Mbadzi Camp offers a world-class fishing experience along the Zambezi River and Lake Cahora Bassa. Here, the unspoiled wilderness and the rhythm of the river create the perfect setting for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re casting your line among submerged structures, rocky banks, or the depths of the lake, every outing promises an unforgettable adventure.

For those seeking a true challenge, the region boasts some of Southern Africa’s finest Tiger fishing. Test your skills against the formidable Vundu, which can reach up to 40kg, or the speedy Bottle Nose and Cornish Jack. With expert local guides leading the way, each fishing excursion delivers thrilling encounters and stories to last a lifetime.

Tigerfish, Vundu, Bottle Nose, Cornish Jack

A Premier Fishing & Wildlife Retreat on Lake Cahora Bassa

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The Ultimate Fishing Haven: Mbadzi Camp

Set within a protected breeding zone, Mbadzi Camp offers an exclusive fishing experience unlike any other. Here, conservation efforts ensure thriving fish populations, making it an angler’s dream destination. But Mbadzi is more than just a fishing retreat—it’s a place where camaraderie, wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets blend seamlessly. After a rewarding day on the water, unwind with an ice-cold drink, sharing tales of the day’s best catches.

Beyond fishing, Mbadzi Camp invites guests to explore:
- Walking Safaris – Discover the beauty of the conservancy on foot.
- Birding & Wildlife Photography – Capture Africa’s vibrant biodiversity.
- Bush Dining & Boat Cruises – Experience unforgettable moments on land and water.
- Community Visits & Family Safaris – Engage with local culture and share adventures with loved ones.
Mbadzi Camp: A Sanctuary in the Wild

Tucked along the serene Mbadzi River, now transformed into a stunning lagoon, Mbadzi Camp is a sanctuary of comfort in the heart of the wilderness. The symphony of the African bush—lion calls in the distance, the rustling of leaves, and the rhythmic chirping of crickets—sets the tone for a truly immersive experience.

Guests can relax in the camp’s luxurious accommodations, designed to blend seamlessly with nature:

Explore the Lodge
- Rim-flow swimming pool with sun loungers
- Spacious bar & lounge areas with breathtaking 270-degree river views
- 10-seater dining table for shared meals under the African sky
- Fully stocked bar & tea/coffee station
- Starlink WiFi to stay connected in the wild
Stay in Comfort: The Chalets
- Private tented & thatched stone chalets overlooking the river
- Veranda with seating for peaceful mornings with coffee
- Two three-quarter beds with mosquito nets for restful nights
- Open en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower facing the river
- Ceiling fans & daily laundry service for ultimate comfort
Serenity Meets Adventure

At Mbadzi Camp, every day is yours to tailor. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of fishing, the tranquility of a nature walk, or the cultural richness of local communities, the experience is yours to shape. A haven for anglers and nature lovers alike, Mbadzi is where untamed Africa meets refined comfort—creating memories that last a lifetime.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Plan your stay at Mbadzi Camp and experience one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. Contact us today to start your journey into the heart of Mozambique’s wild beauty.

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January 29, 2019
El Saltamontes Lodge
Updated on

February 25, 2025

Many years ago we discovered El Saltamontes on the Gorrono Ranch in the Patagonia Region of Southern Chile. El Saltamontes is, arguably, home to one of the finest resident Brown Trout streams anywhere. Testimony to its excellence is the fact that the lodge is completely booked consistently year after year.

El Saltamontes is exclusively a brown trout fishery. Most fishing is done in the Nireguao River and its oxbow lagoons, and some of the best water is only a few feet from the door of the new lodge facility. In addition to the many miles of 4-wheel drive accessible river that flows through the ranch, El Saltamontes also has the fishing rights to all of the best off-property water, including some beautiful canyon stretches accessible only on horseback, as well as oxbow lagoons and lakes for larger brown trout and smaller, remote spring creeks with fish rising eagerly to large dries.

Exclusively brown trout

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Also, at the conclusion of each season, many of the guests are already making plans to return the following year. However, despite the number of guests rebooking each year, excellent dates remain.

Each season, each year, week after week, from January through the end of March, the dry fly fishing on the Nireguao is remarkable and, for the most part, lives up to the outlandish claims made about it. The Chilean government has even designated the Nireguao as the first “catch-and-release”, “artificials only” river in Chile. The browns gorge themselves on grasshoppers, and the grass bordering the stream is loaded with them throughout the season. Even the name of the lodge (El Saltamontes) means the grasshopper.

As in most of Patagonia, breezes range from light to strong and occasionally, a heavy rain spate may briefly cloud the water, making streamers as effective as dries. Even in unseasonably cold or wet weather, or if the wind picks up, the lodge has such a diverse fishing program, there is always some place to go to avoid the heaviest winds.

Most experienced anglers hook impressive numbers of fish in the 3 to 6 pound range during their week and nearly everyone finds the river “user friendly” and full of non-stop action with smaller fish. No other resident Brown Trout fishery in North America, South America or New Zealand is as consistently productive and the fishery continues to demonstrate their claim to being the finest resident Brown Trout fishery in the Americas.

While much of the water is on the ranch, the river flows through bordering estancias and there are other nearby regional water anglers might wish to visit. That is not to mention the new “pristine, off-property” angling opportunities that have blossomed as the guides continue explore new fisheries that, in many cases, have never seen a fly. Each two anglers share a guide and transportation; choices to the stream include horses, jeep or on foot.

The superb new lodge, nestled in a beautiful valley, is luxurious by any angling standards. The lodge is constructed completely from local timber and river stones, the furnishings and final touches reflect the Gorrono family commitment to make this the finest fishing lodge in South America. Each of the five guestrooms have private baths and all have magnificent views. El Saltamontes remains a small, intimate experience by continuing to allow only 8 fishermen and two non-anglers each week of its short season.

The guides at the lodge are a combination of talented North Americans and native Chileans. All are excellent instructors, experienced anglers and understand the intricacies of regional fly-fishing. The seasoned staff at El Saltamontes will all be returning, and no other anglers can lay claim to being more knowledgeable or familiar with the Nireguao than these veteran guides.

El Saltamontes’ talented chefs deliver meal after meal of gourmet and regional specialties and, owner, Jose Gorrono stocks the lodge cellar with a fine selection of domestic wines for each season to accent these his chefs’ wonderful meals. This superb facility along with the experienced guides and staff, has to rank among the best angling experiences and fullfill’s Gorrono’s plan: to make El Saltamontes the standard of angling comparison in South America.

El Saltamontes Lodge 2025 Rates

Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing

7 nights / 6 days (Saturday – Saturday) $6,500, double occupancy
7 nights / 6 days (Saturday – Saturday) $9,500, private room & private guide

(Rates are per person in US$ and subject to change)

The El Saltamontes season stretches over a short thirteen week span of January, February and March.

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El Saltamontes’ package price includes: All licenses; Meet and greet at Balmaceda airport; Round-trip ground transportation; Accommodations (dbl occupancy); Meals; Daily guided fishing (2 anglers per guide); fishing permits/license; wine, beer, spirits and mixers.

El Saltamontes’ package price not Included: travel to Balmaceda; gratuities; tackle and equipment; items of a personal nature are not provided.

Non-angling companions are welcome! El Saltamontes has a variety of interesting “non-fishing” options:
- Bird Watching: Condors, parrots, kingfishers, ibis, woodpeckers, to name a few.
- Cultural Visits: A visit to some of the neighboring farms and villages is a fascinating day trip. It is often the most memorable part of a guest’s trip to Chile. The local rural people live a lifestyle like one would imagine it to have been like in the Western U.S. a century ago.
- Horseback Riding: The area around El Saltamontes is horse country and endless trails lead off in all directions through spectacular mountain vistas and virgin forest. The Gorrono family are all expert horse people, and keep a wonderful stable of well-mannered, sure-footed horses appropriate for any skill level of rider.
El Saltamontes Itinerary

DAY 1 (Saturday) -Travelers usually arrive in Santiago, Chile in the morning, however the trip to the lodge from the States can be done in a single day, but much more comfortably by allowing a night en route in Santiago. Most of our guests transfer to the historic and lovely Carrera Hotel, adjacent to the Governor’s Palace in the city center to relax for a day and acclimate. It is authentically Chilean and the accommodations are located near Santiago’s cultural center, best shopping, excellent bars and restaurants, and nightlife. There are other hotel options.

DAY 2 (Sunday) – After a comfortable night in Santiago, guests fly (jet) to the newly constructed Balmaceda Air Terminal, where they are met by hosts Jose and Erica Gorrono and taken to the lodge. The trip to El Saltamontes by van is about a two and half hours and is accented by beautiful roadside streams and waterfalls.

Upon arrival at El Saltamontes, you’ll be introduced to the staff and accommodations. The Gorrono’s impressive, single story lodge and ranch house is in the shadow of the snow-capped Andes. After the brief orientation and a chance to settle in and organize tackle, anglers are free to fish with their guides for the remainder of the day.

The browns actively feed on grasshoppers and other terrestrials throughout the Patagonian summer months of January, February and March making dry flies are very effective and anglers seldom have to resort to subsurface patterns while fishing at El Saltamontes. Anglers often release trophy Browns during the week.

The after angling cocktail reception always includes Pisco Sour, the Chilean version of a Margarita, a complimentary bar and fine domestic wines. Non-alcoholic beverages are available. The first evening’s dinner is a little later than usual to allow for a full afternoon of fishing. Dinners, like all meals at the lodge are informal, superb and accompanied the by finest Chilean and Argentine wines.

DAYS 2-6 (Monday thru Friday) – These are full fishing days and the exact schedule will depend on the guests wishes. Breakfast and dinner will be served in the lodge and fine mid-day meals are served in the field.

An asado, the traditional South American lamb barbecue highlights the last night at the lodge. Neighbors often attend and music and native folk songs provide a memorable accent to the trip.

DAY 7 (Saturday) – Anglers will be transported to the local airport and begin their journey home starting with the flight to Santiago via Puerto Montt.
January 30, 2019
Brazil

Brazil is the world’s top destination for Peacock Bass fishing. The tributaries of the immense, 2 ½ million square mile Amazon River drainage system, and more specifically the Rio Negro and its tributaries, hold both the largest concentrations and the largest specimens of Peacock Bass or Tucunares, as they are known locally. While there is Peacock Bass fishing to be found in a few other South American locales, Brazil offers the best fishing along with consistent outfitting, quality fishing, and a stable infrastructure to insure a quality trip.

Peacock Bass are one of the world’s most exciting gamefish. Peacocks are aggressive and territorial ambush hunters, and are known for their explosive strikes and tackle busting runs. These fish can be literally unstoppable on their first few runs. “Savage” is the word that best describes these brutes!

Actually, Peacock Bass are not bass at all but are in fact members Cichlid family (which include the ultra-aggressive “Oscars” found in tropical fish tanks!). There are multiple species of Peacocks in the Amazon Basisn, ranging from the colorful Butterfly Peacock, (cichla oscellaris ) which run from 3 – 7 pounds, to the giant Speckled Peacock, (cichla temensis) which have been taken to over 27 pounds. Peacocks are not only one of the world’s most highly prized gamefish, but they are as beautiful as they are tough, making them a species that should be high on every traveling anglers “must catch” list.

Agua Boa Amazon Lodge

Agua Boa Amazon Lodge is a ‘fly fishing only’ operation that was voted as one of the world’s top ten fly fishing lodges by Forbes Magazine. The Agua Boa is a tributary to the Rio Branco/Rio Negro system and is protected by fly fishing only legislation. In all be the highest water, Agua Boa runs crystal clear providing great sight fishing opportunies. Agua Boa is home to 4 species of Peacock Bass as well as about a dozen other “exotics”. Anglers who are Peacock Bass fishing at Agua Boa will also be treated to comfortable air-conditioned chalets, a pool overlooking the river, gourmet meals prepared by a talented chef, and knowledgeable and experienced local guides who take pride in getting you into fish.

River Plate Anglers

River Plate Anglers, owned and operated by peacock bass pioneer, Luis Brown, has been hosting anglers fishing Peacock Bass since 1992 and offers the best variety and mobility options. River Plate utilizes a houseboat in some of the deeper, navigable channels with more “home comforts” and fly in floating cabins to access water beyond the navigable channels & their exclusive water on Indian Reserves and Government Preserves. This ability to access these more remote fishing areas combined with River Plate’s access to more than a dozen fishing areas eliminates over fishing and ensures the highest quality fishing. Both the houseboat and the fly in floating cabins can accommodate both fly and conventional fisherman, and provides 2 Loomis rods and Shimano reels with line for each angler to use while staying with River Plate Anglers.

January 29, 2019