Take a trout fishing expedition in Patagonia with Angler Adventures
Argentina is one of the top destinations to fly fish for trout. Angler Adventures represents lodges from Esquel to Junin del los Andes with Bariloche in the middle. This region represents the best trout fishing Argentina has to offer, including extensive wade and float fishing options – much of it on private estancias (ranches).
TOP PICK for trout & fly fishing
Favorable weather conditions year-round
Open November through May
Outstanding dry fly fishing thoughtout the season
Available for booking NOW
Book now, get a quote, or find out more about fly fishing in Argentina!
Jorge Graziosi has been guiding in Patagonia Argentina since 1968, first under the name Safaris Acuaticos and more recently as Arroyo Claro Lodge, which he opened 1999. In 2006, Jorge
Fly Fishing Andes offers miles upon miles of private access water on multi-thousand acre estancias (ranches), where you might never see another angler during your fishing
The Limay River Lodge is the first and only lodge on the incomparable Middle Limay River. The lodge opened in November 2014 and created easy access to a
Tecka Lodge is a unique fishing property, holding more than 90-miles of fishable private water inside of 435,000 acres. It’s hard to imagine a scenario better
Updated on Fly Fishing the Rio Grande Salmon fishermen, steelheaders, or anyone keen to pursue “overstuffed, energized anadramous torpedoes” should head to Southern Argentina this
Bella Vista Lodge offers 50 kms of double-bank private access fishing. Giant sea-run trout as well as some of the finest dry-fly brown trout fishing on the intimate Gallegos Chico are highlights while staying in unparalleled luxury at this lodge.
What’s Included?
All services by Angler Adventures are FREE
Lodge accomodations
Meals, including beer and wine with dinner
Experienced fishing guides
Transfers to and from Gallegos Airport
We’ve put together the perfect itinerary. Time to book your trip!
Customized itinerary for your best fishing experience
Exclusive, private estancias offer plentiful fish and low competition
Favorable weather conditions year-round
Open November through May
Outstanding dry fly fishing thoughtout the season
Available for booking NOW
Enjoy the most exclusive lodge in Rio Gallegos, situated just 5 minutes from the river. Stay in one of five private suites, dine on locally-raised beef and lamb prepared by the Lodge Chef, and relish the curated wine selection during your stay.
Photos from our recent adventure with Bella Vista Lodge
Explore the Lodges
in beautiful Patagonia, Argentia
Rio Collon Cura & Collon Cura Lodge
To fish the remote private water, the best water on the Collon Cura, clients stay at Collon Cura Lodge. From mid-January to mid-March, small bait fish migrate into the Collon Cura and the trout feed on them voraciously. Mixed with inch worms and evening caddis hatches, the Collon Cura can produce some incredible fishing. The lodge is not as charming and picturesque as some, but what you are buying here is location, location, location.
Scenic
Arroyo Verde
Arroyo Verde is an elegant lodge located on the Traful, the premier landlocked Atlantic salmon river in Patagonia. The river runs 10 miles through the valley, and it has some of the most spectacular views of any Patagonian river!
Record fish are an 18-lb. salmon, a 16-lb. brown and a 23-lb. rainbow! The lodge, which is a traditional estancia in a magnificent Andean valley, was called by Forbes Magazine: “the finest fishing lodge in the world, period!” Three or four days at this unique lodge, wading this marvelous river, will challenge your fly-fishing skills, and invite you to contemplate the extraordinary scenery. The food and wine served at Arroyo Verde rival any great restaurant in the world!
Best in Forbes
Filo Lodge
Filo Lodge, located on the Filo Hua Hum River, takes just 8 clients at a time. This elegant lodge is located in a spectacular remote setting, which ensures privacy and little angling pressure.
The Filo Hua Hum, a tributary of the Caleufu River, runs for approximately 7 miles between two lakes and offers fantastic dry fly fishing, beginning with dragonflies in January. This river holds fish that average 16-20″, up to 10 pounds!
Much of the fishing is sight fishing. This is not a place to catch great numbers of trout, it’s a place to stalk and catch several good sized fish a day, that are used to looking up and taking dry flies.
The Chimehuin River is the most famous of all Patagonia Trout Rivers. In fact, it’s considered to be responsible for putting Argentine trout fishing on the
The Malleo River is considered by many trout fisherman to be an almost perfect trout stream. The Malleo is a moderate size freestone river comprised of
Tres Rios Lodge is located just south of the junction where the Chimehuin and the Aluminé Rivers join to form the Collon Cura River. The traditionally styled lodge is a new building
Fly Fishing Andes offers miles upon miles of private access water on multi-thousand acre estancias (ranches). Large Rainbow and Brown Trout (and landlocked salmon on certain rivers) are actively feeding and present the wonderful challenge we all love.
Where do you want to go?
Choose from lodges and rivers in the San Martin and Junin del los Andes region.
Customized itinerary for your best fishing experience
Exclusive, private estancias offer plentiful fish and low competition
Favorable weather conditions year-round
Open November through May
Outstanding dry fly fishing thoughtout the season
Available for booking NOW
You’ll lodge and dine in very comfortable accommodations with private bath and enjoy professional, English-speaking fly fishing guides, the finest Argentine wines and exceptional meals with uniformed service personnel to cater to your every need. This is very civilized fishing!
Photos from our recent adventure with Fly Fishing Andes
Explore the Lodges
in beautiful Patagonia, Argentia
Rio Collon Cura & Collon Cura Lodge
To fish the remote private water, the best water on the Collon Cura, clients stay at Collon Cura Lodge. From mid-January to mid-March, small bait fish migrate into the Collon Cura and the trout feed on them voraciously. Mixed with inch worms and evening caddis hatches, the Collon Cura can produce some incredible fishing. The lodge is not as charming and picturesque as some, but what you are buying here is location, location, location.
Scenic
Arroyo Verde
Arroyo Verde is an elegant lodge located on the Traful, the premier landlocked Atlantic salmon river in Patagonia. The river runs 10 miles through the valley, and it has some of the most spectacular views of any Patagonian river!
Record fish are an 18-lb. salmon, a 16-lb. brown and a 23-lb. rainbow! The lodge, which is a traditional estancia in a magnificent Andean valley, was called by Forbes Magazine: “the finest fishing lodge in the world, period!” Three or four days at this unique lodge, wading this marvelous river, will challenge your fly-fishing skills, and invite you to contemplate the extraordinary scenery. The food and wine served at Arroyo Verde rival any great restaurant in the world!
Best in Forbes
Filo Lodge
Filo Lodge, located on the Filo Hua Hum River, takes just 8 clients at a time. This elegant lodge is located in a spectacular remote setting, which ensures privacy and little angling pressure.
The Filo Hua Hum, a tributary of the Caleufu River, runs for approximately 7 miles between two lakes and offers fantastic dry fly fishing, beginning with dragonflies in January. This river holds fish that average 16-20″, up to 10 pounds!
Much of the fishing is sight fishing. This is not a place to catch great numbers of trout, it’s a place to stalk and catch several good sized fish a day, that are used to looking up and taking dry flies.
The Chimehuin River is the most famous of all Patagonia Trout Rivers. In fact, it’s considered to be responsible for putting Argentine trout fishing on the
The Malleo River is considered by many trout fisherman to be an almost perfect trout stream. The Malleo is a moderate size freestone river comprised of
Tres Rios Lodge is located just south of the junction where the Chimehuin and the Aluminé Rivers join to form the Collon Cura River. The traditionally styled lodge is a new building
The Chimehuin River is the most famous of all Patagonia Trout Rivers. The Chimehuin is ground zero for traveling fly anglers in Patagonia since 1960. Spanning 50-miles from Lago Huechulafquen to the Rio Alumine, the best place to fish the Chimehuin is the private access water of Tipiliuke Lodge on the Estancia Cerro de los Pinos.
What’s Included?
All services by Angler Adventures are FREE
Lodge accomodations
Meals, including beer and wine with dinner
Experienced fishing guides
Transfers to and from Gallegos Airport
Enjoy the most exclusive lodge in Rio Gallegos, situated just 5 minutes from the river. Stay in one of five private suites, dine on locally-raised beef and lamb prepared by the Lodge Chef, and relish the curated wine selection during your stay.
Customized itinerary for your best fishing experience
Guided Horseback Riding
Golfing at Chapelco Golf Club
Birding (San Martín de los Andes has 189 species)
Gourmet Food Experience (tasting and cooking)
Photography Workshop (Eliseo Miciu)
Hiking and Climbing
Outstanding dry fly fishing thoughtout the season
Available for booking NOW
Photos from our recent adventure with Bella Vista Lodge
Explore the Lodges
in beautiful Patagonia, Argentia
Rio Collon Cura & Collon Cura Lodge
To fish the remote private water, the best water on the Collon Cura, clients stay at Collon Cura Lodge. From mid-January to mid-March, small bait fish migrate into the Collon Cura and the trout feed on them voraciously. Mixed with inch worms and evening caddis hatches, the Collon Cura can produce some incredible fishing. The lodge is not as charming and picturesque as some, but what you are buying here is location, location, location.
Scenic
Arroyo Verde
Arroyo Verde is an elegant lodge located on the Traful, the premier landlocked Atlantic salmon river in Patagonia. The river runs 10 miles through the valley, and it has some of the most spectacular views of any Patagonian river!
Record fish are an 18-lb. salmon, a 16-lb. brown and a 23-lb. rainbow! The lodge, which is a traditional estancia in a magnificent Andean valley, was called by Forbes Magazine: “the finest fishing lodge in the world, period!” Three or four days at this unique lodge, wading this marvelous river, will challenge your fly-fishing skills, and invite you to contemplate the extraordinary scenery. The food and wine served at Arroyo Verde rival any great restaurant in the world!
Best in Forbes
Filo Lodge
Filo Lodge, located on the Filo Hua Hum River, takes just 8 clients at a time. This elegant lodge is located in a spectacular remote setting, which ensures privacy and little angling pressure.
The Filo Hua Hum, a tributary of the Caleufu River, runs for approximately 7 miles between two lakes and offers fantastic dry fly fishing, beginning with dragonflies in January. This river holds fish that average 16-20″, up to 10 pounds!
Much of the fishing is sight fishing. This is not a place to catch great numbers of trout, it’s a place to stalk and catch several good sized fish a day, that are used to looking up and taking dry flies.
The Chimehuin River is the most famous of all Patagonia Trout Rivers. In fact, it’s considered to be responsible for putting Argentine trout fishing on the
The Malleo River is considered by many trout fisherman to be an almost perfect trout stream. The Malleo is a moderate size freestone river comprised of
Tres Rios Lodge is located just south of the junction where the Chimehuin and the Aluminé Rivers join to form the Collon Cura River. The traditionally styled lodge is a new building
More about Tipiliuke Lodge and the famous Chimehuin
Nine miles of the Chimehuin River and seven miles of the Chimehuin’s top tributary, the Quilquihue, create more than 16-miles of private access to ideal trout water that flows though Tipiliuke’s property. The Chimehuin is a moderate grade freestone river that can be compared in size to the Madison or Yellowstone Rivers. The Chimehuin has an amazing variety of waters, most allowing fly fishermen to easily wade the cobblestone riverbed while sight fishing for wild Rainbow and Brown Trout averaging 16 – 20 inches with fish in the 21 – 24 inch range being common. There are trophy trout available, up to 30 inches, that can be specifically targeted with streamers or large attractor style dries. While streamers and nymphs are effective, the Fly Fishing Andes guides’ passion is catching trout on dry flies. Alberto Cordero with a nice Brown Trout landed on a dry fly.
The Quilquihue is a smaller river than the Chimehuin with a steeper gradient creating faster currents, which is more challenging to wade. The Quilquihue offers excellent dry fly fishing, trout of surprising size, and lots of shaded water. In addition to fishing the Quilquihue, there is a man-made spring creek that runs through a pasture on the property and joins the Chimehuin. The creek was created from an underground channel of the Chimehuin, a pond, and an underground spring and has been evolving into an unique and reliable fishery since it was completed in 2006.
Tipiliuke Lodge is one of the premier hosterias in Argentina and is a favorite among trout fisherman staying in Patagonia. The lodge is set in the heart of the 48,000-acre Cerro de los Pinos’ Estancia (ranch) at the foot of the Andes mountain range and conveniently located near the city of San Martín de los
Andes (12 min. drive from Chapelco airport). Tipiliuke’s luxury accommodations, excellent food, and personalized service makes the lodge a great place for non-anglers as well as fishermen.
Tipiliuke LodgeThe Estancia includes a number of buildings: Tipiliuke Lodge, old barns, a chapel and several family houses, which are beautiful and unique in their traditional and rustic Argentine architecture. Tipiliuke Lodge has 9 comfortable bedrooms for 18 guests (each with a private bathroom), a living room, dining room and cozy bar. While the lodge can accommodate 18 guests, they limit the number of anglers to a maximum of 10 anglers at any one time. Tipiliuke Lodge offers 220-volt electricity, domestic and international telephone service, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, authentic refined cuisine and knowledgeable personalized assistance.
Tipiliuke Lodge is surrounded by a 15-acre tree sanctuary with close to 2000 different species of trees from all over the world and miles of the Chimehuin and Quilquihue Rivers. The sanctuary creates an oasis of shade in the barren basalt hills of the surrounding area. Guests will often enjoy their lunch outside, surrounded by the trees’ shade. The closest pool is only 600 yards from Tipiliuke, making fishing during the mid-day break or the evening rise on the Chimehuin an easy walk from the lodge. Natural and Immitation Dry Flies
Alberto Cordero and the Fly Fishing Andes staff of guides have extensive experience fishing the private-access water of the Chimehuin and the Quilquihue on the Estancia Tipilikue. These professional English-speaking guides are experts taking the rivers browns and rainbows on dry flies, as well utilizing nymphs and streamers for big trout. Combining the fabled rivers and top guides from Fly Fishing Andes with the accommodations, food, wine and setting of Tipiliuke is sure to create a truly unforgettable experience for anglers and non-anglers alike.
Included in the rate: Pick up and return to Chapelco Airport in San Martin; daily guided fishing; accommodations; all meals, wine and non-alcoholic drinks during meals, open bar with assorted national liquor and beverages, use of the lodge’s private access waters, internet access; fishing license and taxes.
Not included in the rate: Airfare; departure taxes; transfers; hotels and meals in Buenos Aires (if required); laundry, tips to guides, tips to lodge staff, phone calls, tackle; flies and waders.
The incomparable Minipi watershed is widely acknowledged as the world’s finest fishery for giant Brook Trout, with an astounding average size of right around 5 pounds. The Minipi is situated some 60 miles southeast of Goose Bay in Labrador’s remote wilderness. Accessible only by floatplane, the Minipi was first explored by fly rod legend Lee Wulff in the late 50’s. Lee recognized this as a one of a kind fishery producing a unique strain of thick bodied, beautifully conditioned brook trout. The fertile, shallow lakes are veritable insect factories with prolific hatches of out-sized mayflies, caddis and stoneflies. This abundance of aquatic hatches means that Minipi brookies are almost always “looking up” and specimens up to 10 pounds have been taken on dry fly.
Five of the current seven tippet class world records for Brook Trout have been taken in the Minipi system. Northern pike to 30 pounds are abundant and a unique strain landlocked arctic char up to 12 pounds are taken regularly as they stage for spawning in September. Fishing is restricted to fly fishing only for brook trout and char although spin or plug casting (single, barbless hook lures) is allowed on Minipi Lake. Because trophy brook trout are the main attraction, the incredible pike fishing is often overlooked; despite the fact Minipi Lake has also produced a current fly rod world record for pike, 25.5 pounds on 8-pound tippet. Catch and release is encouraged for brook trout, but anglers may take one trophy brook trout (6 pounds or better) per week for mounting.
Access to this world-class fishery is via the Minipi Camps, owned and operated by Jack & Lorraine Cooper: Anne Marie Lodge and Minipi Lake Resort. The Minipi Camps operate from mid-June through mid-September. Week long packages are the norm, but custom packages of shorter duration may be arranged on request.
THE FISHING
River and lake fishing is available at all of the Minipi camps. The lakes in the Minipi system are relatively shallow in most areas, allowing sunlight penetration to the bottom. This accounts for amazing insect life making this fishery a dry fly angler’s dream! Anglers are transported to fishing areas in aluminum boats and freighter canoes with 9.9 horsepower motors. Minipi Lake, which is a larger body of water (30-miles long), also has deep-vee aluminum hull boats with 30 hp 4 stroke engines to reduce run times up the lake. You fish two anglers per boat with an experienced, licensed guide, either casting from the boat, from shore, or while wading, depending on the area you fish.
A network of boats and canoes are stationed at various known hotspots better accessed by walking. Inlets and outlets are often productive areas as are “narrows” in the lake where there is good current movement. July is the peak mayfly emergence, although good dry fly fishing usually starts around the 20th of June and we have witnessed fishable hatches of giant “drakes” (Hexagenia) and caddis well into August.
The “growing season” is short and these brookies take advantage and feed voraciously from ice-out (usually 1st week in June) until spawning time in the fall. These fish can pack on an additional 15 – 20% in body weight over the summer! As such, August usually produces the biggest fish (4 of the 5 current records). By the second 2 weeks in August, these big brookies begin staging at the inlets and outlets in preparation for their spawning run. The landlocked arctic char are caught early in the season, but during the warmth of summer, they seek refuge in the deeper parts of the lake. However, they begin staging for their spawning at the inlets and outlets in early September, the time that anglers have their best chances for trophy char.
Most anglers new to Labrador are amazed by the average size of both mayflies and caddis, which are often imitated on hooks as large as size 2. Most of the dry flies you’ll fish are in the 6 – 12 size range. The Wulff patterns are the most frequently fished dry fly patterns with the Grey Wulff being the most popular. But variations such as the Grizzly, Minonipi and the Royal Wulffs have their followers as well. Big, extended body “Drake” imitations, outsized caddis (Elk Hair & Goddard Caddis for example, and large stoneflies (like the Stimulator in orange or yellow), and a few Atlantic salmon Bombers round out a good dry fly selection.
Other large surface patterns, including deer hair mice, Dahlberg diver types and bass bugs (even cork bodied bass poppers!) are effective on big Minipi brookies, as well as pike. During times between hatches, wet flies, nymphs and streamers are deadly as well with favorite patterns including Muddler Minnows (original and marabou versions), Mickey Finns, Clousers, Zonkers, and Wooly Buggers. For nymphs, large Bitch Creek, Prince Nymphs, and Hare’s Ears
THE CAMPS
Anne Marie is the oldest and first opened in 1964. Perhaps because of its history and intimacy, Anne Marie has enjoyed a loyal following of repeat clients year after year. After 7 daunting years of construction in the Labrador bush, in 2011, the Cooper’s hosted their first guests at new luxury Ann Marie Lake Lodge, which replaced the aging Anne Marie cabin that had hosted fisherman for a half a century.
The spectacular new Ann Marie Lodge features full ensuite bedrooms, spacious and comfortable common and dining areas, and large windows affording spectacular views of Ann Marie Lake. The camp accommodates a maximum of 10 anglers.
Minipi Lake Lodge, which first opened in 1988, is a modern multilevel structure featuring a 40 foot high, prow-shaved window wall overlooking Minipi Lake. The lodge is just 1/4 mile from the outlet into the Minipi River. The River stretch in the gorge behind the lodge is a “nursery” during most of the season and offers fast action for smaller brookies averaging 2 pounds. Late in the season when the big spawners enter the system, the average size increases. A short walk down to the gorge after dinner is a popular way to finish a great day on Minipi. The lodge accommodates a maximum of 10 anglers.
Minonipi Lake Lodge is currently used as just a daily flyout destination. Minonipi generally produces larger average sized trout than Ann Marie or Minipi and has 2 of the systems world records including a 10-pound brookie taken June 29, 1987. Minonipi also has better numbers of landlocked char.
Little Minipi Lodge is also used only for daily fly outs. Besides inlet/outlets and vast lake areas, Little Minipi has a 1 ¼ mile section of river that holds very large brookies throughout the summer. Fish of over 9 pounds have been taken from the river. The outlet right in front of the camp is also one of the best staging areas for arctic char for the September run of landlocked arctic char.
The daily schedule includes 4 meals. Typically, anglers head out after breakfast, usually not earlier than 9:00 am (Minipi trout are late risers), and stay out for the day, having a shore lunch at noon. Usually the best mayfly hatches occur around 2:00 in the afternoon. Guests return to the lodge for a 6:00 pm dinner, and head back out for the evening fishing. Summer days are long in Labrador (fishable light until 10:00 pm in late-June/early July), and your guides will stay late if you wish. Catching an evening spinner fall on the Minipi is nothing short of a magical experience! A final late evening meal is available when you return to camp for the night.
In September combination fishing/hunting trips may be arranged on special request. The region offers Canada Geese, ptarmigan, ruffed grouse, ducks, and caribou.
Our Services are Free!
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Minipi Camp 2020 Rates
Rates are per person based on 7 nights accommodations and 6 1/2 days guided fishing with two people sharing a room and a guide daily.
Anne Marie Lake
10 Rods
$6,595 USD + Taxes
Minipi Lake Lodge
10 Rods
$5,595 USD + Taxes
Included
Airport reception and transfers in Goose Bay; chartered helicopter or float plane service from Goose Bay to lodge; accommodations; guided fishing; meals at the lodge; fishing license.
Not Included
Airfare to Goose Bay; accommodations if required in Goose Bay; tackle; liquor; soft drinks and gratuities, tax; optional fly outs for June & July trips.
There is at present a 15% Harmonized Services Tax added to fishing packages.
For 2020, Anne Marie will transfer on Fridays; Minipi Lake Lodge will transfer Thursdays. In most cases, guests will overnight in either Halifax or St. Johns and fly to Goose Bay the following morning, and take the float plane into camp that afternoon.
Crook’s Lake Lodge is situated on one of the world’s most prolific Brook Trout fisheries, the headwaters of Labrador’s Eagle River, just south of the Mealey Mountains. Crooks Lake offers consistent, high quality fishing for wild brook trout, not only in good numbers but of a very impressive average size.
Crooks Lake (a.k.a. Croix Lake) also appeals more to the stream and wading oriented angler. The river sections fished from Crooks typically yield catches of 10-20 fish per day, with days of 20, 30 or more not unusual. Brookies here range from 2-6 pounds, occasionally larger.
For years we conservatively told clients these fish average around 3-4 pounds. However, a government sponsored study during the 2005 season revealed the average Brook Trout caught at Crooks Lake was 4.56 pounds. Fish over 6 pounds were fairly common and specimens up to 8 pounds were recorded. It’s possible 2005 was just an “exceptional year” but this study further confirms the quality and potential of this remarkable fishery.
The trout fishing is mostly fly fishing, and catch & release is encouraged. The season usually gets under way around the 1st of June, and while the weather can still be a bit iffy, the brookies feed voraciously from ice out until their spawning time in late August. These Brookies have but a brief “growing season” and make the most of it!
While streamer fishing with weighted muddlers and conventional bucktail and nymph fishing is effective throughout the season, these Brookies are surface oriented and you can frequently “pound em up” with all manner of surface offerings. Mayfly hatches usually start around June 10th or 15th, and much of the fishing is with dry flies. Wulffs, Humpies, Stimulators and conventional imitative dries (mayfly, caddis and stones) are productive, but even during hatches, these big Brook Trout will frequently attack big attractor patterns.
One unconventional, but productive dry fly, is the Orange Bug, a pattern developed for Atlantic salmon. While this fly looks like nothing in nature, Crooks Lake Brookies love them! Mouse patterns are also extremely effective, especially years when there is a population explosion of voles. The ubiquitous “Shaving Brush” developed by one of the veteran Crooks Lake guides, is an unweighted long-headed muddler type pattern skittered and waked across the surface. It’s likely taken for a mouse and is one of the camp’s top producers.
In addition to the abundant Brook Trout, Crooks Lake and Eagle River offer chances for big northern pike, occasionally topping the 20 pound mark. Pike are taken trolling spoons and plugs, as well as large, saltwater size streamers. But in quiet, weedy backwaters or “steadies”, you can catch them casting flies or plugs around rocks and other cover. They love mice patterns, but will also explode on fly rod big poppers. Bring a 9 weight and your bluefish poppers!
Crooks Lake Lodge is owned and operated by veteran outfitter Mike Crosby. The lodge, which is accessible by 60-mile float plane flight from Goose Bay, has gained a loyal following of repeat customers – a testament to the quality of both the operation and the fishery.
A maximum of 6 guests are accommodated in 3 large twin bedded double rooms. There are two full bathrooms, each with hot shower. The main lodge overlooks the lake and houses kitchen & dining room, comfortably appointed lounge, and generated electrical service, refrigeration, and radio telephone communications.
Our Services are Free!
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
The 2020 rate at Crooks Lake is $5,495 CAD per person, per week.
Included: airport reception and ground transfers in Goose Bay; accommodations (double occupancy) in Goose Bay; round trip float plane transfers; 6-nights lodging at camp; all meals, 5-full days guided fishing (2-anglers per guide/boat); boats, motors, fuel; fishing license; internet and phone service at camp.
Not included: airfare to Goose Bay; liquor and beverage needs (may be pre-ordered); gratuities (recommended $30-$60 per day to the guide and $10-$25 per day to the cook); 15% HST; any meals in Goose Bay.
A 50% deposit will secure your reservation. This deposit is non-refundable. Final payment is due April 1st.
Because of the small capacity and popularity of the lodge, available space is limited and we encourage you to book early to obtain your preferred dates. If you would like to make a reservation or have any questions, please call.
Jorge Graziosi has been guiding in Patagonia Argentina since 1968, first under the name Safaris Acuaticos and more recently as Arroyo Claro Lodge, which he opened 1999. In 2006, Jorge constructed the new Arroyo Claro Lodge, built on a nearby hillside with dramatic views of the beautiful Carrileufu River, 3-hours south of Bariloche. Lodge guests fish the Carrileufu, the Rivadavia, Arrayanes and Chubut rivers, as well as Arroyo Pescado, and the Palena and Futaleufu Rivers of Chile.
Arroyo Claro Lodge
Arroyo Claro Lodge is located ten miles south of the small village of Cholila, in the heart of this wonderful trout fishing country. The Carrileufu River is within walking distance of the lodge. The Rio Rivadavia and El Canal spring creek are a short drive. The Andes Mountains make the perfect backdrop to this idyllic setting. Your host at Arroyo Claro Lodge is Jorge Graziosi.
Jorge designs each fishing itinerary to suit the season, angler preference, and the size of each group. On extended stays, Jorge may dedicate a portion of each guest’s trip to fishing the Palena and Futaleufu Rivers in Chile, a three-hour drive south of Cholila, stopping to fish Arroyo Pescado on the way. Another option is a 3-night / 4-day float trip on the Chubut River, known to deliver non-stop dry fly action for Browns and Rainbows up to 4 pounds.
Jorge is an expert fly fisherman and an accomplished horseman and the lodge is furnished with his riding paraphernalia, including some exquisite saddles and bridles. He owns several horses that are available for guests’ enjoyment; you will see them grazing in front of the lodge. A small garden provides fresh flowers for the dining tables.
Arroyo Claro Lodge has a main lodge with four spacious double guest rooms on the first floor, each with a private, full bathroom and two smaller bedrooms with private baths on the second floor.
Arroyo Claro’s main lodge and cabin sit on top of a stone bluff, overlooking the Carrileufu Valley and facing the mountains. The view of the bend in the Carrileufu River under the mountain’s jagged peaks is breath taking.
The food is wonderful. Breakfast and dinners will be served at the lodge, preceded by a cocktail hour either on the patio or by the fireplace, depending on the weather. At least one of the dinners will be at the lodge’s parrilla, or barbeque.
Here guests enjoy “asado,” which is a traditional and very popular meal in Argentina, consisting of beef, lamb and sausage, all cooked together on a grill over hot coals. There will also be home baked bread, salad, dessert and plenty of vino tinto.
Part of the fun is relaxing and taking in the scenery while your hosts tend an oversized, smoking grill. Most other meals are taken in the dining room of the main lodge or on the stream. The lodge specializes in local produce and creative national dishes, paired with a selection from an extensive wine list.
Days, of course, are typically spent exploring the expansive trout waters in the surrounding country under the expert direction of Jorge and his team of guides.
The beautiful Carrileufu flows within sight of Arroyo Claro. The best way to access to the Carrileufu is by floating the river and getting out to wade fishy looking water. However, some stretches are best fished from the raft, casting to the riverbank. Half-day trips on the Carrileufu are easily arranged, which leaves time for other activities such as horseback riding, hiking and visiting the “Patagonia Express” railway and Estancia Leleque Museum. The driving time to and from the river is quite short, which is not the norm for many South American fishing lodges. The Rivadavia is a little further from the lodge; about twenty minutes by car. The Rio Chubut is also close by, where adventurous guests can enjoy a 3-day float trip.
Catch and release regulations imposed on the Carrileufu several years ago have greatly enhanced the size and population of trout in this river. Rainbows and browns up to 27 inches have been taken by Arroyo Claro guests on dry flies. These incredibly strong trout run and jump like steelhead and have been described by clients as “trout on steroids”. The Carrileufu is also one of the best rivers in Argentina for landlocked Atlantic salmon, particularly in November and March.
The Rio Rivadavia is one of the prettiest rivers in Argentina with good average sized trout that can be caught on dry flies, nymphs and streamers all in the same day. There is so much fishable water it generally takes two full days to cover the best five miles of this river. Not to be missed is the more technical spring creek tributary of the Rivadavia with rainbows and browns that can exceed five pounds.
Also nearby are the Rio Arrayanes, Menendez and the Canal Spring Creeks.
Chubut Float Trip
The 3-night / 4-day float trip on the Rio Chubut is spectacular. Why 4 days? That’s how long it takes to get to the next road. Much of the Chubut is so remote (most of the float is inside a 250,000 acre Estancia), its trout have never seen a fly and the catch results show it. You will loose count. Most guests fish exclusively with dry flies. The fish range from 12-22 inches, with a few larger fish to be had. The Chubut River is 30 – 50 yards wide, which is filled with fishy looking riffles, runs, deep pools.
The Chubut is the longest of five small rivers that are born in the mountains a few miles south from the Bariloche airport: Two of the River’s go to the Pacific and three to the Atlantic. The Chubut flows for almost six hundred miles to reach the coast. First, flowing south for one hundred miles where the river takes a turn 90 degrees about ten miles south of El Maiten and heads east for the Atlantic. This is known as “Vuelta del Rio” (turn of the river) and where 65 miles Chubut float trip begins. The Chubut float takes anglers through a variety of fishing situations and Argentine landscapes. At the beginning of the float, the banks are lined
with tall willows, some reaching 40 to 50 feet tall that provide cover for the trout, protect the anglers in windy conditions, and keep the water cool. Then, the banks begin to open, cut banks begin to form, and there is great terrestrial and hopper fishing. The float ends on a winding section of the Chubut, framed by the Andes, with less willows, more cut banks, and fabulous riffles where some heavy brown trout take Chernobyls and big stone flies.
All of the camping equipment is provided (wall tents with two cots each, good sleeping, tables, camping chairs, electricity provided by a small generator, portable toilette, and shower facilities) and is set up each night by camp staff, who will float ahead of the anglers, set up camp and prepare dinner. The facilities are simple, however Jorge has perfected the scheduled and equipment, so anglers want for nothing, except for more time on the Chubut.
Client Views of the Chubut Float
“Three things can sum up an Arroyo Claro float down the Chubut River. Great fishing, knowledgeable guides and personalized service.
We experienced great dry fly fishing to feisty rainbow trout averaging 18″. Chernobyl patterns, Dave’s hoppers, caddis patterns brought fish to the surface all day long. Whenever there was a slight lull to the dry fly action, I would put on a few nymphs, especially a prince nymph, and the fish were right back on it. But the dry fly fishing was just too spectacular to think of fishing below the surface.
Jorge and his crew were extremely professional and organized. Campsites were set up well in advance every night. It was a pleasure to roll into camp every night and see dinner being prepared, tents placed along the river and the bar open. Meatloaf, steaks, grilled chicken, bacon and eggs, and freshly squeezed orange juice are some samples of the type of meals we ate. Jorge even brought some pies for dessert! I noticed that everyday Jorge or any of his crew would go out of their way to make sure we were comfortable. Expresso anyone?
The Chubut River trip is a treat for a lifetime. Great scenery, great fishing, experienced and knowledgable guides, tasty argentine food and wine but make sure you bring a jacket to keep you warm when the winds of Patagonia start to blow. The only reason I might hesitate from going again is that I do not think it could be any better than the last time.” – Bob M.
“When the guides take machetes out to chop through the willows, you know you aren’t going to be fishing ‘the same old, same old’. The first 1/2 of the trip is filled with bright, shiny, acrobatic rainbows, running 14-18 inches long, jumping, pulling and bouncing around the river with abundant energy.
Southern kingfishers, wild parakeets, cara caras, and Andean condors fly over and around the river, giving bird-oriented folks lots of bucket-list Audubon check-offs. Cool nights make for great sleeping, that and tasty bottles of Argentine Malbec wine and cold Aracauna, Anteres and Quilmes beers speed you off to trout-filled dreams on your cot in your own tent after a routine day of 20-40 wild fish to the net/angler.
Jorge’s team of guides and wranglers are skilled at preparing evening meal like rich bolognese sauces and pasta al dente, steaks, or a piquant chili with fresh baked bread, perfecto! You will not lack for breakfast options, which are served with matte tea served and shared with the guides, as is the custom, or fresh brewed coffee in your own mug. Lunches are often cuts of salami and ham, hard cheeses, fruits, bread for sandwiches, bottles of beer (or more Malbec). Desserts are pies and torts filled with the rich local berries.
The end of the Chubut float finds the river gradient slowing and more opportunities to tangle with big browns and you may linger at the deeper holes for a bit to see if you can coax a big boy to come out and play. There are also rainbows to keep your rod bent between the viscous, green stretches, but this is your chance to tangle with 25+ inch Argentine brownies, not mention their ho-hum “smaller” 16-18 inch brothers and sisters.
There is no fine china, no crystal wine goblets, no maitre d’s to tip, but you will be well-spoiled by the end of your float because the scenery is gorgeous, the fish cooperative and frisky (but well placed casts reap great rewards). The air is fresh, the water cool, the sky is big and the experience most special. This is a great trip to reconnect with friends, enjoy precious moments with family, or simply enjoy a few days under canvas in the Argentine pampas, chasing trout and enjoying life with folks who appreciate really love being out on a trout river with no other agenda than relaxing and savoring the simple pleasures of life well-lived. Did I mention they have lots of good Malbec?” – Rick B.
Chile Road Trip
The Chile Road Trip normally beings with a stop at Arroyo Pescado to break up the 3-hour drive. Aftera full day of fishing Arroyo Pescado, it’s a 90-minute drive to either the Rio Palina or the Futaleufu. Each itinerary is custom designed to meet each clients’ individual preferences. Guests stay at lodges in Chile selected by Jorge Graziosi. The pricing for the Chile Road Trip is the same as a standard stay at Arroyo Claro, except that liquor and wine are not included in Chile.
Arroyo Pescado is a small spring creek, typical of spring creeks throughout the western U.S., having a high density of trout and some very large trout. Arroyo Pescado is closed to fishing until January 1st each year, but has excellent fishing right from the opening bell and offers some outstanding hopper fishing.
The Rio Palena originates from Lago Vintter and flows through Argentina as the Rio Corcovado. Once the river enters Chile and until it empties in the Pacific, it’s known as the Rio Palena. The Palena fishes well with dries, nymphs and streamers for brown and rainbow trout. This river also has the most important run of Pacific King salmon in South America – The Kings spawning in the Palena not only add another species to target, but the browns and rainbows grow big and strong feeding on salmon eggs. The Palena flows through one of the most spectacular mountainous valleys in Chile, with snow-capped peaks hovering over every riffle and run.
The Futaleufu in Chile, or “Big River”; (for this is how Futaleufu translates from the Tehuelche tongue) begins on the Eastern side of the Andes in Argentina, where it’s called the “Rio Grande”. Once over the Chilean border, the Futaleufu creates the Yago Yelcho, which in turn becomes the Rio Yelcho that empties into the Pacific. This fast flowing freestone river has healthy populations of large brown trout and rainbow trout, as well as excellent insect hatches.
When To Visit Arroyo Claro
Weather and fishing conditions in Argentina are similar to those in the Western U.S. – Montana, Idaho and Wyoming – during the corresponding seasons, (Argentina’s seasons are opposite ours in North America), as described below.
The trout-fishing season opens on the second Saturday in November. During November & December, the rivers are at the highest levels of the season, but the flow is moderated by the fact that most rivers flow out of lakes. High water and spring temperatures cause the fish to feed aggressively, making this one of the most productive times of the year.
Bring your sinking lines, but expect good dry fly fishing on the Chubut, with the right conditions. December offers some super nymph fishing on the Rivadavia. Good landlocked salmon fishing on the Carrileufu. The period corresponds with the months of May and June in the western U.S. Expect springtime temperatures; with potentially cool to cold mornings and nights. Temp range: 32°-75°.
If you’d rather fish in shirtsleeves on bright, sunny days, you should focus on January and February when water levels stabilize. Good dry fly fishing and generally the most dependable weather of the season. The months of January and February, corresponding with July and August in the Western U.S., usually offer the best hopper fishing of the season. The well-known spring creek Arroyo Pescado opens January 1st. The Futaleufu River, because it is a tail water fishery, fishes well even during the hottest weather. The weather can range from hot and dry in the daytime to cool mornings and nights. Temperatures can range into the 80’s and during midsummer daylight can last until 10:30 at night. At high elevations the weather will be cooler and more subject to change. High winds are possible anytime. Cholila is apt to be warmer and less windy than other parts of Patagonia due to its lower elevation (1500 feet). Temperature range: 50°-90°.
During March and April (the season closes April 15th) the days begin to shorten, the trees turn bright colors, the salmon and big browns move from the lakes into the rivers to spawn and water temperatures begin to reactivate the trout. Good wet and dry fly fishing, particularly landlocked salmon on the Carrileufu. Water levels reach their lowest point, making sight fishing very productive. These months correspond to September and October in the Western U.S. Expect autumn temperatures and potentially cool to cold mornings and nights. Temperature range: 32°-75°.
Non-Fishing Activities:
Horseback riding on the 5,000 acre ranch
Visit to the los Alerces National Park – the lodge is 3 miles from the park’s north entrance.
Big boat ride on Lago Menendez to the Glaciers (very scenic) of “Cerro Torecillas.”
Hiking – just behind the lodge are many private trails.
Butch Cassidy cabin (20 miles away)
Patagonia history museum, “LeLeque Estancia”
Ride to the Museum on the Patagonia Express.
Visits to El Bolson artisans fair (about 1 hour away)
Bird watching for Condors/Flamingos.
Visits to the Welsh Tea House (about a 12 mile drive)
Our Services are Free!
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
2020 – 2021 Rates For Arroyo Claro Lodge Patagonia, Argentina
The 2020 – 2021 rates are: $650 (US) per person, per day, based on two people sharing a room and a guide; $850 (US) a day for a single fisherman; $400 (US) a day for non-fishing companion; $450 (US) per person/double and $600 (US) single for an arrival day; and $200 (US) per person/ double; $200 (US) single for a departure day. These rates are quoted in US dollars and are subject to change. Transfers in Buenos Aires, if required, are additional.
Example: 7 nights in the Cholila/Esquel area with 6 days fishing would cost $4,550 (US) per person, based on two people sharing a room and guide.
Included in the rate are: pick-up and return to Bariloche or Esquel airport, daily guided fishing by vehicle/foot and by inflatable rafts; accommodations, which in addition to Arroyo Claro Lodge can include hotels and country lodges (or tent camps for optional overnights on rivers); all meals with house wine, beer or soft drinks.
Not Included in the rate are: airfare to Bariloche or Esquel; departure taxes; laundry; fishing license; access fees to private waters (US$100 per person at Arroyo Pescado); Chubut Float (US$100 per person); tackle; flies; tips to guide or at hotels; bar expenses; hotels and transfers in Buenos Aires and possible meals or sightseeing during layover in Buenos Aires.
Fly Fishing Andes offers miles upon miles of private access water on multi-thousand acre estancias (ranches), where you might never see another angler during your fishing day. Large Rainbows and Browns (and landlocked salmon on certain rivers) are actively feeding… and present the wonderful challenge we all love. Every trip is a custom designed itinerary that allows clients to select from 5-6 lodges and a variety of rivers in the San Martin and Junin del los Andes area, such as Arroyo Verde, on the incredibly beautiful Rio Traful, Tipiliuke, on the majestic and world-renowned Rio Chimehuin, San Huberto, on the Malleo, perhaps the most amazing and perfect trout stream in the world. Collon Cura Lodge on the productive Rio Collon Cura and the smallest river we fish with some of the largest trout, the Filo Hua Hum, staying at Filo Lodge. You’ll lodge and dine in very comfortable accommodations with private bath and enjoy professional, English-speaking fly fishing guides, the finest Argentine wines and exceptional meals with uniformed service personnel to cater to your every need. This is very civilized fishing!
Hola! My name is Alberto Cordero-Biedma. I am the owner and principal guide for Fly Fishing Andes. I invite you to come to Argentina to experience the romance, the beauty, the warmth and hospitality of native Argentines as they welcome you to their private estancias…and most of all the wonderful fly fishing on private access waters which rivals that of any Rainbow and Brown trout fishery in the world. We’re very excited to share our incredible fishing with you! Especially the dry fly action!
We offer you complete flexibility in choosing how you wish to enjoy Northern Patagonia. We do not offer standard packages; instead you may design your own trip or tell us what you prefer and we’ll design one for you to consider. Stay as few or as many days as you wish. Stay at one, two, three or four lodges. We will plan and execute your trip so thoroughly that all you will have to do is relax, pick up your rod, fish…and enjoy! We promise! We have a passion for our natural Patagonia and for our wild trout…we take pleasure in sharing these resources with our guests.
Compared to the rest of Patagonia, the Northern Zone gives you kinder weather and gentler winds. Normally we experience delightfully warm weather with lighter winds from late December to early April. The exceptional, wild McCloud-strain rainbows, German browns, Sebago landlocked salmon and Eastern brookies that fill the pristine lakes, streams and rivers in Patagonia were transplanted to the cold, gin clear Andean waters over 95 years ago.
Depending on your preference for fly fishing, be it dry fly, wet fly, streamers or all of these, we can offer a variety of waters that will cater to your pleasure. Most of our guests over the years have elected to visit two or three different estancias in a fishing vacation lasting ten days to two weeks. If you can only stay a week, we suggest you visit at least two different waters. We’ll work hard to exceed your expectations and make your visit to Argentina your best fishing experience ever. We have been fortunate over the years to fill our vacancies early. To avoid disappointment, we suggest you begin your booking process a year or so in advance. We give priority bookings to returning guests. Please know that fishing conditions vary from year to year depending on our weather. Gracias, Alberto
Tipiliuke is one of Argentina’s finest lodges. The lovely stone lodge is in the middle of the 50,000-acre, deer, cattle and sheep “estancia”. The lodge shares its magnificent architecture with the rest of the buildings and also has a beautifully crafted interior. Tipiliuke is situated just North of San Martin de los Andes, in the heart of the most famous trout waters in Argentina.
Anglers staying at Tipiliuke have access to seven miles of private water on the world-renowned Chimehuin as it runs through the ranch. The Chimehuin has an amazing variety of waters, allowing fly fishermen to float, wade, sight-fish or hunt for trophy trout with streamers or big attractor style dries. The wild rainbows and browns can be caught up to 30″, with the average fish running 16″ to 20″. Both rainbow and brown trout are frequently caught in the 21″ to 24″ range. There’s also access to seven miles of the smaller Rio Quilquihue – a delightful dry-fly stream.
Hosteria San Huberto is one of the most traditional lodges in Patagonia and has capacity for twelve guests. It is on a 25,000-acre ranch with access to 20 miles of the Malleo, one of the world’s great dry-fly streams.
The Malleo, which is small in comparison to most Patagonia rivers, is the one in Argentina with the densest, most frequent and most predictable hatches. It is an almost perfect trout stream, combining easy wading, diversity of water types and just the right amount of riparian vegetation The trout quality is second to none, and you’ll appreciate the spectacular views such the majestic Lanin volcano. This is the one lodge in Patagonia that regularly gets fully-booked by early July for the months of January, February and March. If you decide to experience this great lodge andstream, do yourself a favor by not waiting too long to book. Click here for more information on the Malleo River and Hosteria San Huberto.
Collon Cura Lodge
To fish the remote private water, the best water on the Collon Cura, clients stay at Collon Cura Lodge. From mid-January to mid-March, small bait fish migrate into the Collon Cura and the trout feed on them voraciously. Mixed with inch worms and evening caddis hatches, the Collon Cura can produce some incredible fishing. The lodge is not as charming and picturesque as some, but what you are buying here is location, location, location.
Tres Rios Lodge is located just south of the junction where the Chimehuin and the Aluminé Rivers join to form the Collon Cura River. Tres Rios Lodge offers access to 9-miles of the lower Chimehuin, 4-miles on the lower Aluminé, and 4-miles on the upper Collon Cura. Anglers can choose to float, float to wade, or exclusively wade these rivers. The lodge is comprised of 3 guest rooms with private bathrooms, kitchen, living and dinning rooms. As a small lodge, Tres Rios is committed to accommodating one group at a time, so guests will experience exclusive use. Click here for more information on Tres Rios Lodge and fishing the Aluminé, Chimehuin, and Collon Cura Rivers.
Arroyo Verde
Arroyo Verde is an elegant lodge located on the Traful, the premier landlocked Atlantic salmon river in Patagonia. The river runs 10 miles through the valley, and it has some of the most spectacular views of any Patagonian river!
Record fish are an 18-lb. salmon, a 16-lb. brown and a 23-lb. rainbow! The lodge, which is a traditional estancia in a magnificent Andean valley, was called by Forbes Magazine: “the finest fishing lodge in the world, period!” Three or four days at this unique lodge, wading this marvelous river, will challenge your fly-fishing skills, and invite you to contemplate the extraordinary scenery. The food and wine served at Arroyo Verde rival any great restaurant in the world!
Filo Lodge
Filo Lodge, located on the Filo Hua Hum River, takes just 8 clients at a time. This elegant lodge is located in a spectacular remote setting, which ensures privacy and little angling pressure.
The Filo Hua Hum, a tributary of the Caleufu River, runs for approximately 7 miles between two lakes and offers fantastic dry fly fishing, beginning with dragonflies in January. This river holds fish that average 16-20″, up to 10 pounds!
Much of the fishing is sight fishing. This is not a place to catch great numbers of trout, it’s a place to stalk and catch several good sized fish a day, that are used to looking up and taking dry flies.
Our Services are Free!
2023 – 2024 Fly Fishing Andes Rates
Per Night
7-nights/6 days
Tipiliuke
$1,285 per person
$8,995 per person
Arroyo Verde
$1,285 per person
$8,995 per person
San Huberto
$1,285 per person
$8,995 per person
Tres Rios
$1,285 per person
$8,995 per person
Limay River
$1,285 per person
$8,995 per person
Collon Cura
$1,285 per person
$8,995 per person
Filo Hua Hum
$1,285 per person
$8,995 per person
All rates are based on double occupancy accommodations and two anglers sharing a room and guide. Rates are subject to change.
The Limay River Lodge is the first and only lodge on the incomparable Middle Limay River. The lodge opened in November 2014 and created easy access to a virtually untapped fishery. The Middle Limay River is one of the richest fishing resources in Northern Patagonia (the areas North of Bariloche). The Limay has a reputation for consistently producing large resident brown trout, strong rainbows, and enormous migratory browns. The Middle Limay River is a large river, with numerous channels, that offers a variety of fishing opportunities: Dry Fly fishing with large attractor patterns or matching the hatch to rising fish, nymphing fishy runs, or stripping streamers to imitate minnows or pancoras. Angler’s searching for the “ultimate” Patagonian fly-fishing experience will find a trip to the Middle Limay unforgettable.
There are two structures that create the defining characteristics to the Middle Limay that make it so productive: The Pichi Picun Leufu Dam and El Chocon Reservoir. The Pichi Picun Leufu Dam turns the Middle Limay into a tail-water with consistent flows, clean / clear water, and prime water temperatures for trout and insect life. El Chocon Reservoir is an expansive lake (315 sq. miles of surface area with a max depth of 200 ft) that produces the Brown Trout which are measured in pounds, not inches, that migrate out of the reservoir and up the Limay to spawn. This creates a unique combination of predictable, consistent fishing for large fish, with the ever present possibility of taking massive browns on a dry fly.
The fishing on the Limay is virtually the same throughout the season, which runs from early-November until the end of May, because it’s a tail water. The majority of fishing (up to 90%) can be done with large attractor dries, which are surprisingly effective on Limay River rainbows and browns. Match the Hatch fishing, Attractor / dropper, and Streamer fishing are also effective all season long. The resident fish are typically between 17″ – 22″, with larger fish being common. It’s almost common place for anglers to a have a day only catching fish 20″, all on dries! The highest concentration of “migratory” fish in the Limay River is early and late in the season, but there are huge browns in the Limay year round. The fishing is a truly unique combination of action and excitement.
Limay River Lodge is located at approximately the mid-point of the Middle Limay River. With drive times to the 12 access points as little as 5 minutes to just under an hour, depending on which beat you prefer to fish any given day. Anglers can also choose to wade the waters around the lodge for full or half day fishing. The variety of access points allow for full day floats, half day floats, short floats, long floats, strictly wading, and wading/floating combos.
The Limay River Lodge is a U-shaped structure with an open courtyard, conveniently close the river. The lodge can accommodate 14 anglers in 7 double occupancy guest rooms, each with large open closets and private baths, and individual rod racks and wader hangers outside each room under a covered walkway. The dining room / living room are both located in a large open space at the East end of the lodge. There’s a fire pit in the courtyard, surrounded by a seating area, which is an ideal evening gathering spot. Anglers will find the Limay River Lodge comparable to a 5-star hotel in atmosphere, service, and appointments. There is reliable WiFi internet access, but no cell service.
Limay River Lodge has a fleet of Hyde Drift boats, which are ideal for floating the Limay River and new 4×4 trucks with trailers. Limay River Lodge also offers guests use of their Sage / Redington Rods paired with Sage / Redington reels and Rio Lines, as well as Redington Waders and Boots. The Limay River Lodge also has it’s own staff of professional fishing guides that are exclusively fishing the Limay River.
Our Services are Free!
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Limay River Lodge 2018 – 2019 Rates
(subject to change)
The cost for a 7-night / 6-day package is $6,860 per person based on double occupancy accommodations and a shared boat / guide daily. Shorter packages are available.
Included: Accommodations at Limay River Lodge; Daily Guided Fishing; All Meals & Beverages, included local beer, excellent wine and open bar at the lodge; ground transfers from Limay River Lodge to the fishing areas; fishing license.
Not Included: Airfare; Reception & Assistance in Buenos Aires; Non-Fishing activities; IN/OUT Private ground transfer from Bariloche, Neuquén or San Martin de los Andes (Chapelco) Airports to Limay River Lodge; Trip Insurance; Guide and Staff Gratuities; Additional travel services in Buenos Aires such as transfers, hotels, or tours.
Tecka Lodge is a unique fishing property, holding more than 90-miles of fishable private water inside of 435,000 acres. It’s hard to imagine a scenario better than sharing 45-miles of the Corcovado, 35-miles of the Tecka Spring Creek, various tributaries and smaller spring creeks with fewer than 20 guests.
The Rio Corcovado is the larger river. It originates in Lago General Vinter and holds Rainbows, Browns and Brookies, some up to 10 pounds. The Corcovado (the Palena when it enters Chile) runs through the Western side of the estancia in the shadow of the Andes. A deep pooled and bolder strewn river, the Corcovado is best fished from a drift boat (15 individual day long floats), with some places where anglers can wade safely. The average fish is between 15 – 18 inches, with 20 – 22 inch caught daily.
The Rio Tecka is a traditional spring creek running through the Eastern side of the Estancia Tecka. The average fish in the Tecka are 12 – 15 inch strong, well-conditioned, hard-fighting trout. The deeper pools hold fish up to 15 pounds. The fishing is exclusively wading or casting from the banks. Rio Tecka provides consistent quality dry fly fishing, which can be spectacular during grasshopper season.
In addition to having 2 quality trout rivers on the Tecka Estancia, there are also 2 well-appointed fishing lodges: Caridad (Corcovado) and Headquarters (Tecka). The lodges are 45-minues apart, close enough that anglers can fish both rivers.
Caridad has 6 bedrooms, each with a private bathroom. While the lodge can accommodate up to 10 anglers, they prefer to have a maximum of 8 per week. From Caridad, anglers can walk to the Corcovado or drive up to an hour to the upper river.
Headquarters was the original house on the Estancia built in 1920’s and has 4 bedrooms with private baths with a more traditional Patagonian décor. Headquarters allows anglers to access the Tecka Spring Creek in as little as 5 minutes or as much as 30 minutes. Headquarters also has a fantastic indoor Asado.
Tecka Lodge is located 2 hours south of Esquel, in Argentina’s Chubut Province. Guests normally travel through Buenos Aires and will need to fly to Esquel on Saturday, returning the following Saturday.
Single occupancy rooms and fishing with your own guides are available at an additional cost, based on availability. Non-fishing guests pay 50% of the fishing rate. Customize shorter or extended packages are available upon request. Please call Angler Adventures for availability and details.
Included: All meals and accommodations, 6-days of guided fishing on the Rio Corcovado and the Rio Tecka (2 anglers per guide), fishing licenses, transportation throughout the ranch, transfer to/from Esquel, all alcoholic beverages, laundry service.
Not Included: Air fare and special transfers, fishing gear, guide & staff gratuities.
The South American Golden Dorado (Salminus brasiliensis) is considered by many well traveled anglers to be the world’s greatest fighting game fish. This extraordinary jumper combines the running and leaping abilities of a salmon with the ferocity and predatory instincts of a tiger shark. It violently hammers flies and lures, then immediately explodes out of the water in a series of outrageous leaps and line stripping runs.
For many years, one of Latin America’s most exciting game fish was kept a secret in its heartland. In the last few years, the Dorado, or “River Tiger” as it is affectionately called in Argentina, has rocketed to the top of the “hot fish list”!
Throughout much of its equatorial range, the Dorado is caught in heavy rivers in fairly deep, murky waters and generally with heavy spinning or plug casting tackle. However, for anglers preferring to fish relatively light fly tackle or light spinning tackle, in more intimate, relatively clear waters, with even some sight casting opportunities from the deck of a flats skiff, Pirá Lodge offers the perfect alternative.
Pirá Lodge is located in the northeastern corner of Argentina in Corrientes Province on the immense Iberá Marsh. One of the most unique and fascinating ecosystems in the world, the Iberá Wetlands is comprised of 3,500,000 (three million five hundred thousand) acres of unexplored and uninhabited marshland will be the setting for some of the most exciting fishing you will ever do. The marsh is a vast system of pristine creeks, rivers, shallows, and lakes roughly 2.5 times bigger than the Florida Everglades and is home to more than 350 species of birds, 85 mammals and almost 70 reptiles, along with this electrifying game fish!
Pirá Lodge guests fish from state of the art 18 foot Hell’s Bay flats skiffs with poling platforms. Primary fishing areas include the Corrientes River, the Headwaters and the Marsh proper.
The River is more traditional fishing usually with an 8 or 9 weight with a sink tip line. Large saltwater type streamer patterns are swung and stripped. One of the most effective patterns is the Andino, a hybrid muddler/deceiver pattern
The headwaters offers more floating line fishing and even surface patterns like mice (tied on heavy saltwater hooks) or sliders. Sometimes dorado will take poppers but seem to prefer sliders. The popular “Titanic” steelhead waking fly, has been adapted (tied on heavier hooks) and has been very successful in recent years.
The Marsh fishing is slightly more technical. This is generally clearer water and a stealthy approach is required. Again, the Marsh offers more opportunities for floating line fishing, and Pirá guides have even discovered these fish will eat buggy, rubber legged terrestrial dry flies!
While fish over 25 pounds have been taken at Pirá, most fish will average in the 3 – 6 pound range, with fish in the 10 + pound class taken each month of the season. The average day usually produces around 5 – 10 fish per rod per day. But this can vary widely. Dorado can be moody, but can also just go “on the grab”, and you might release 20 in a morning session.
Daily fishing hours may vary depending on month and weather. A typical spring fishing day will start in the morning from 8:00 to 12:30, lunch at the lodge, and then afternoon fishing from 3:30 to 7:30. The season comprises the Argentine spring and summer, from mid-October through April.
Fly rods carrying 7, 8 & 9 weight lines are the weapons of choice. It’s best to carry two rods; an 8 or 9 rigged with a sinking line (like a T-200) and a 7 or 8 rigged with a floater. Traditional saltwater streamers and deceivers in black, purple chartreuse and white, some slider and mice patterns, and wire leaders (these are toothy critters) complete the required gear.
Pirá Lodge is designed to provide its guests not only with a remarkable fishing experience, but also with maximum comfort. The lodge has only five bedrooms, each one of them fully air-conditioned, with two double beds and large bathrooms with double windows, which provide a peaceful space to unwind in a warm bath. The rooms feature French windows, which open out to the shaded verandah with easy access to the 20 meter pool and a beautiful view of the surrounding wilderness. In addition to the comfort of a spacious sitting room, with unique furniture crafted by local artisans, anglers will appreciate the convenience of a fly tying table, and an on-site fly shop, fully equipped with flies, rods, reels and clothing.
Gourmet dining with Argentina’s famed beef and fine wines, traditional “asados” (BBQ´s), delicious regional as well as international cuisine desserts, and the fully stocked bar contribute to create the setting for perfect moments at the end of a perfect day.
Other activities available are Kayaking, Bird watching, Horseback riding and snorkeling. Pirá is a strictly CATCH AND RELEASE fishery.
There are a number of options for travel to Pira Lodge. Most convenient but also most expensive is using a private charter to fly directly to the lodge’s grass airstrip (dependent on water levels) or to nearby Mercedes or Goya Airports. This works well for groups of 4 or more. Alternately, you can fly commercial air to either Resistencia or Corrientes. From there it is a 4 ½ hour ground transfer.
Many will travel through, arriving in Buenos Aires early morning, taking a mid-morning flight to Corrientes where they overnight at the charming Hotel La Alondra, and make the ground transfer to the lodge the next morning.
The most novel travel method is using the overnight Luxury Sleeper bus to Mercedes. This features fully (flat) reclining seats with privacy curtains, much like you’d find on First Class transoceanic flights. This departs Buenos Aires at about 9:30 pm. Dinner and beverages are served and you’ll arrive in Mercedes at about 7:00 am. From there it’s a 1 ½ hour car transfer to the lodge.
Pirá is a strictly CATCH AND RELEASE fishery and strongly encourages the use of barb-less hooks.
Our Services are Free!
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Pirá Lodge 2018 – 2019 Rates
(Effective October 2018 – April 2019)
Package Length
Double Occupancy
7-nights / 6-days Fishing
$5,950 per person
6-nights / 5-days fishing
$5,100 per person
5-nights / 4-days fishing
$4,475 per person
4-nights / 3-days fishing
$3,800 per person
Included in the rate: Roundtrip transfers Mercedes Airport or bus terminal to lodge (if you fly private charter); 7-nights deluxe lodge accommodations (double occupancy); all meals; all wines, beer; soft drinks and local spirits at the lodge; daily guided fishing, 2 anglers per boat/guide; fishing license.
Not included are: International airfare; transfers, hotels, meals and personal expenditures in Buenos Aires; commercial flights into either Corrientes or Resistencia (or private charter costs if you fly into Mercedes); transfers from Corrientes, Resistencia or Goya airports to lodge; tackle; imported liquors; laundry service; overweight luggage charges; gratuities.
Single occupancy 60% more; Non-fisher $450 per night/person.
Jurassic Lake, locally known as Lago Strobel, has garnered a reputation as the most prolific Rainbow Trout fishery in the world. Located in the rugged Steppe or “messita” region of southern Argentina’s Santa Cruz province, Jurassic Lake is the place for trophy Rainbow Trout on a fly. Lago Strobel is a 40 square mile lake and the average Rainbow landed from Jurassic Lake is close to 10 pounds, with fish breaking the 20 pound mark caught almost weekly.
Jurassic Lake is popular among anglers looking for their personal best Rainbow, but it’s not a destination for everyone. It’s located in one of the world’s most desolate, windswept landscapes, 5 hours from the closest airport, El Calafate City. Anglers who make the long journey stay at Estancia Laguna Verde Lodge.
Estancia Laguna Verde offers more than 6 miles of Jurassic Lake coastline accessible from the lodge and a few more remote areas only accessible by boat (when the weather allows). Guests at Estancia Laguna Verde have access to “Monsters Bay”, which was named after the consistent numbers and size of the trout landed in the bay and considered to be the best fishing area on Jurassic Lake. Anglers will also fish the productive Camelot Bay, Moro Bay, Horse Shoe Bay, Finger Bay, Sea Bay, Tazmania Bay, Dry Fly Bay, Puesto Bay, and The Aquarium. Fishing in the Bays offers some protection from the ever present wind. On calmer days, the sight fishing with small nymphs or large dry flies can be spectacular in all of the bays.
Estancia Laguna Verde is a 37,000 acre ranch on the southern shore of Jurassic Lake. The estancia encompasses 12 chain lakes connected by Moro Creek, and 5-miles of the Barrancoso River, which is the sole tributary to Jurassic Lake. The smaller chain lakes each have their own stock of big Rainbows. The Estancia and Lodge’s namesake, Laguna Verde, is full of 4 – 8 pound Rainbows, with fish over 10 pounds caught regularly, and is a short walk from the lodge. Many anglers catch their personal best Rainbow while “warming up” on Laguna Verde, before making a single cast into Jurassic Lake. Estancia Laguna Verde has made substantial improvements to the exiting roads inside the estancia and added new roads, allowing anglers easier access to the best fishing areas. The new infrastructure has improved the efficiency of travel, resulting in more time on the water for clients. Also added was a “lake cabin” on the shore of Jurassic Lake, where anglers can enjoy lunch, a siesta, or just take a coffee / matte break out of the wind. Estancia Laguna Verde now has access to 4 beats on Moro Creek, which are accessible by 4-Wheel Drive ATV’s or by truck.
Unlike the short sea-run trout fishing season on the nearby Gallegos or in Tierra del Fuego, Jurassic Lake has excellent fishing for almost 6 full months, from November – April. The higher water levels in November & December offer sight fishing on the Moro Creek and there are lots of large Rainbows still in the Barrancoso River, as well as in Jurassic Lake. Lower water in January – mid-March focuses fishing for big rainbows in the lakes, with mostly smaller trout in the Barrancoso River. As water levels start to rise in late-March – April, there are more big rainbows running back into the Barrancoso River, preparing to spawn.
The lodge on Estancia Laguna Verde is a traditional “Estancia House” with 7 guest rooms, accommodating a maximum of 12 anglers, each with a private bathroom. Estancia Laguna Verde Lodge is not luxurious, but given its remoteness, it is quite comfortable. Guests enjoy amenities like 24-hour electricity, 24-hour hot water, satellite TV on a 42″ LCD TV, wireless internet, and twice weekly laundry service. There’s also a changing room/drying facility, located by the entrance to the lodge for anglers to change before and after the fishing day, as well as to store / dry fishing gear, such as waders, wading boots, rods, reels, vests, etc.
Fishing Jurassic Lake requires rods capable of handling strong winds and fish that could go over 20 pounds. Fast action 9 / 10 foot rods in the 7 – 9 weight range are excellent choices, with a high quality, large abor reel. Almost all of the fishing is done with floating lines, but having a variety of lines like floating, sink tip, sinking lines with a medium sink rate and a shooting head type fly lines is recommend so you can adapt to conditions. Jurassic Lake trout aren’t leader shy, so heavy tippets are recommended to keep the enormous fish from braking off. For the Barrancoso River, 8 / 9 foot rods in 5 – 6 weight are adequate. When fishing the beautiful Barrancoso River, 9 ft. leaders in lighter tippet sizes (8-10 lbs) are recommended, as the water is clear and the fish can be spooky and challenging at times.
Top dry flies are: Mice, Chernobyl Ant, Tarantula, Madam X, Gypsy King, Stimulator (yellow and green), and Stimulator Rubber legs in sizes 6 – 10. Estancia Laguna Verde suggests a variety of weighted and unweighted Woolly Buggers, scuds, zonkers, and matukas in sizes 4 – 10. Don’t forget a selection of nymph’s and typical western flies for some of the more technical fishing. There is also a small fly shop at the lodge with a limited supply of waders, jackets, leaders, flies, tying materials, lines, rods, reels, and other fishing equipment. Also, in the event that something gets broken or lost, the lodge has some loaner tackle (Echo Rods and Islander Reels) that anglers can borrow. Don’t forget the “Flexi Stripper” stripping baskets, helpful when making long casts in the lake as well as protecting lines from the rocky coastline.
Estancia Laguna Verde strives to offer the best cuisine Argentina has to offer. The chef combines what Argentina is famous for: Great “asados” (barbeques) and Patagonian lamb, with tasty international dishes, all served with great wines from Mendoza, San Juan, Salta and Neuquén.
Our Services are Free!
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Estancia Laguna Verde 2022 Rates
(subject to change)
The cost for a 7-night / 6-day fishing package is $6,200 per person based on double occupancy accommodations and a shared guide daily.
Included: pick-up and return to Calafate Airport; daily guided fishing with 2 anglers per guide; accommodations; all meals; beverages (including water, wines, beer, sodas, cocktails, liquors); 24-hour electricity; satellite television; WiFi; laundry service twice per week.
Not included: airfare; departure and reciprocity taxes; transfers between airports or hotel to airports; hotels in Buenos Aires or El Calafate City where applicable; tips to guides or at hotels; tackle; flies, Argentina fishing license ($70 US per week, subject to change); possible meals or sightseeing during layovers in Buenos Aires (sport coat optional); Satellite Telephone use; other items of a personal nature.
The Chimehuin River is the most famous of all Patagonia Trout Rivers. In fact, it’s considered to be responsible for putting Argentine trout fishing on the map. The Chimehuin has been ground zero for traveling fly anglers in Patagonia since it was “discovered” in the 1960’s. While all 50-miles of the Chimehuin, from it’s origin at Lago Huechulafquen until it joins the Rio Alumine, offers good fishing, the best place to fish the Chimehuin is the private access water of Tipiliuke Lodge on the Estancia Cerro de los Pinos (also known as Estancia Tipiliuke), especially with dry flies.
Nine miles of the Chimehuin River and seven miles of the Chimehuin’s top tributary, the Quilquihue, create more than 16-miles of private access to ideal trout water that flows though Tipiliuke’s property. The Chimehuin is a moderate grade freestone river that can be compared in size to the Madison or Yellowstone Rivers. The Chimehuin has an amazing variety of waters, most allowing fly fishermen to easily wade the cobblestone riverbed while sight fishing for wild Rainbow and Brown Trout averaging 16 – 20 inches with fish in the 21 – 24 inch range being common. There are trophy trout available, up to 30 inches, that can be specifically targeted with streamers or large attractor style dries. While streamers and nymphs are effective, the Fly Fishing Andes guides’ passion is catching trout on dry flies.
The Quilquihue is a smaller river than the Chimehuin with a steeper gradient creating faster currents, which is more challenging to wade. The Quilquihue offers excellent dry fly fishing, trout of surprising size, and lots of shaded water. In addition to fishing the Quilquihue, there is a man-made spring creek that runs through a pasture on the property and joins the Chimehuin. The creek was created from an underground channel of the Chimehuin, a pond, and an underground spring and has been evolving into an unique and reliable fishery since it was completed in 2006.
Tipiliuke Lodge is one of the premier hosterias in Argentina and is a favorite among trout fisherman staying in Patagonia. The lodge is set in the heart of the 48,000-acre Cerro de los Pinos’ Estancia (ranch) at the foot of the Andes mountain range and conveniently located near the city of San Martín de los
Andes (12 min. drive from Chapelco airport). Tipiliuke’s luxury accommodations, excellent food, and personalized service makes the lodge a great place for non-anglers as well as fishermen.
The Estancia includes a number of buildings: Tipiliuke Lodge, old barns, a chapel and several family houses, which are beautiful and unique in their traditional and rustic Argentine architecture. Tipiliuke Lodge has 9 comfortable bedrooms for 18 guests (each with a private bathroom), a living room, dining room and cozy bar. While the lodge can accommodate 18 guests, they limit the number of anglers to a maximum of 10 anglers at any one time. Tipiliuke Lodge offers 220-volt electricity, domestic and international telephone service, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, authentic refined cuisine and knowledgeable personalized assistance.
Tipiliuke Lodge is surrounded by a 15-acre tree sanctuary with close to 2000 different species of trees from all over the world and miles of the Chimehuin and Quilquihue Rivers. The sanctuary creates an oasis of shade in the barren basalt hills of the surrounding area. Guests will often enjoy their lunch outside, surrounded by the trees’ shade. The closest pool is only 600 yards from Tipiliuke, making fishing during the mid-day break or the evening rise on the Chimehuin an easy walk from the lodge.
Alberto Cordero and the Fly Fishing Andes staff of guides have extensive experience fishing the private-access water of the Chimehuin and the Quilquihue on the Estancia Tipilikue. These professional English-speaking guides are experts taking the rivers browns and rainbows on dry flies, as well utilizing nymphs and streamers for big trout. Combining the fabled rivers and top guides from Fly Fishing Andes with the accommodations, food, wine and setting of Tipiliuke is sure to create a truly unforgettable experience for anglers and non-anglers alike.
Included in the rate: Pick up and return to Chapelco Airport in San Martin; daily guided fishing; accommodations; all meals, wine and non-alcoholic drinks during meals, open bar with assorted national liquor and beverages, use of the lodge’s private access waters, internet access; fishing license and taxes.
Not included in the rate: Airfare; departure taxes; transfers; hotels and meals in Buenos Aires (if required); laundry, tips to guides, tips to lodge staff, phone calls, tackle; flies and waders.
Non-fishing Activities
Popular non-fishing activities at Tipiliuke are Guided Horseback Riding; Golfing at Chapelco Golf Club (designed by Jack Nicklaus); Birding (San Martín de los Andes has 189 species); Hiking; Gourmet Food Experience (tasting and cooking); Photography Workshop (Eliseo Miciu); Park and Plant Nursery Visits. Other activities available are Rafting trips with great views of the Aluminé, Collón Curá and Hua-Hum valleys; Climbing the Lanín Volcano; visiting the Lanín National Park Thermal Spa (Termas de Epulafquen); Skiing a wonderful small family oriented ski area in Chapelco; Experimental Learning; Visit Lanín and Nahuel Huapi National Parks.
The Malleo River is considered by many trout fisherman to be an almost perfect trout stream. The Malleo is a moderate size freestone river comprised of diverse water, from boulder strewn runs through hip-deep water to classic pools tailing out into riffles to stretches of under-cut banks shaded by overhanging willows. The majority of the Malleo is easily waded over its 50-mile course from Lago Tromen until it joins the Rio Alumine.
The Malleo River originates at an elevation of 3,821 feet in the Eastern Andes as a small freestone stream. The wading can be difficult on the upper reaches of Malleo and the fishing is typically in small riffles and pools. The Malleo gets very little fishing pressure in this area, mostly due to the difficult wading and challenging fishing. Rainbow Trout are the predominant species in this part of the river and they’re typically abundant to 16-inches with some fish into the 20-inch range, especially in the early season.
As the Malleo approaches the property of the Estancia San Huberto, the river changes it’s course from a freestone river to a variety of water – fast runs through basalt canyons, long slow pools meandering through meadows, traditional freestone riffle and pools, and spring creek like runs. Here the Malleo passes through the 25,000-acre Estancia San Huberto where guests of the hosteria have private access to nearly 20 miles of prime trout habitat. This section of the Malleo has an incredible population of mature Rainbow and Brown Trout (including some large browns up to 8 pounds). The adult trout population has flourished due to San Huberto’s strict catch and release policy that has been diligently enforced. Here, the Malleo is also known for some of the best and most predictable mayfly, caddis and stonefly hatches in South America.
Guide Tommy Sordelli
The best way to experience the fishing on the Malleo is with an experienced Fly Fishing Andes guide staying at Hosteria San Huberto. San Huberto is a classic guesthouse located on a large cattle-farming ranch, just North of San Martin del los Andes and on the banks of the Malleo River. The first San Huberto guesthouse was built 1970’s to accommodate a growing number of travelers passing through this section of Patagonia. San Huberto is now considered the most distinguished fishing lodge in northern Patagonia due to the Hosterias long tradition of hospitality and the excellent access the Malleo.
San Huberto can accommodate a maximum of 16 guests, however prefers to limit the number of anglers to 12 per week. The Hosteria is set up for both single and double occupancy rooms, as well as having rooms set up to accommodate guests with physical disabilities. Each room has direct dial phone service for domestic and international phone calls and the lodge offers guests use of their satellite internet connection that can be accessed in the lodge and in the offices. San Huberto is a pleasant, relaxed, informal hosteria with large, bright living rooms that have been carefully decorated and designed for comfort.
As the Malleo runs through the Estancia San Huberto, the river flows through the “little canyon” and “big canyon” and the banks become shaded by “mimbres” (willows). The majority of the Malleo here is difficult to access since the river moves away from the road, but can offer some excellent dry fly fishing. As the Malleo approaches the
Alumine, the river slows considerably and large calm pools become abundant. The landscape surrounding the lower Malleo is more arid and barer than upper reaches. The trout are typically smaller in the section of river, averaging between 8 – 12 inches, however there may be opportunities to for browns up to 8 pounds near the junction pools and during the spawing run. The section of the Malleo below Estancia San Huberto is open to the public, but is is not the best water. The best water is the private water, owned by the Olsen family who operate San Huberto. To Fish the private waters, you must stay at Hosteria San Huberto.
Included in the rate: Pick up and return to Chapelco Airport in San Martin; daily guided fishing; accommodations; all meals, wine and non-alcoholic drinks during meals, open bar with assorted national liquor and beverages, use of the lodge’s private access waters, internet access; fishing license and taxes.
Not included in the rate: Airfare; departure taxes; transfers; hotels and meals in Buenos Aires (if required); laundry, tips to guides, tips to lodge staff, phone calls, tackle; flies and waders.
Rio Malleo Fishing Season at San Huberto
November – December: Morning Caddis, Afternoon Mayflies – typically small, Stoneflies. The Huaca Mamuil creek has great dry fly fishing during the early season.
December – February: Larger Mayflies (Drakes); Evening Caddis Hatches of bigger caddis flies; Terrestrials – Grasshoppers, Inchworms, Dragon Flies; Caddis hatches decline in February. Tan and cream are the primary caddis colors.
March and April: Midges; Mayflies, Mahogany duns and BWOs; Aphids.
San Huberto particularly recommends Royal PMX, Adams (Parachute and Catskill style), Humpies (red, yellow and green) and Elk Hair Caddis as must have dry flies and the best nymphs as Pheasant Tails, Hare’s Ears, and Bead Head Princes.
Tres Rios Lodge is located just south of the junction where the Chimehuin and the Aluminé Rivers join to form the Collon Cura River. The traditionally styled lodge is a new building constructed with the latest building technology, but still Patagonia style stone covered walls and classic red roof. The lodge is comprised of 3 guest rooms with private bathrooms, kitchen, living and dinning rooms. Two of the rooms over look the Collon Cura valley and river. As a small lodge, Tres Rios is committed to accommodating one group at a time, so guests will experience exclusive use.
Tres Rios Lodge offers access to 9-miles of the lower Chimehuin, 4-miles on the lower Aluminé, and 4-miles on the upper Collon Cura. Anglers can choose to float, float to wade, or exclusively wade these rivers.
Aluminé River
Aluminé River (“shining button” in the native language) & Collon Cura River (“stone mask” in the native language) are the larger two river. These freestone rivers are a filled with overhanging willows, pocket water, back eddies, drop off, high banks and beautiful rock formations. This area is known for exceptional terrestrial fishing, in addition to having hatches throughout the season. Casting hoppers, ants, crickets, inch worms or big attractors against the bank draws exciting strikes from rainbow and brown trout. The Collon Cura has more fish per mile than any other river in the area, and the average fish is around 16 to 18 inches, with browns over 20 inches being caught regularly. The fish density on the Collon Cura makes Tres Rios a great place for beginners and experienced anglers.
Late in the season (March – April) the brown trout of the lower Collon Cura, and some of the area lakes, migrate up the Collon Cura to Spawn. This means there are much bigger fish in the water around Tres Rios and there’s a chance of catching a trophy brown. Streamer fishing, especially at the head of the runs and riffles, can be very effective.
Chimehuin River
The Chimehuin River (“land of the spirit” in the native language) is the smallest of the three rivers, but arguably the most beautiful. The Chimehuin is ideal for dry fly fishing and Tres Rios offers access to 9 miles of perfect pocket water, back eddies, rock structure, over hanging willows and water oaks. The gin clear water and season long hatches make this river a great place for sight fishing. The Chimehuin is also known for it’s side channels, where wading is more manageable early in season!
Because Tres Rios offers each group exclusive use of the lodge, there’s no set schedule. Guests can dictate meal times and locations. Especially during the summer months, guests enjoy having lunch or dinner outside, overlooking at the Collon Cura Valley. It’s also possible to have dinner on the river, to extend the fishing day and fish the entire evening rise. Tres Rios employs a professional chef, who will act as your personal chef and prepares gourmet cuisine. Tres Rios also prides itself in an excellent selection of premium Argentine wines.
Alberto Cordero and the Fly Fishing Andes staff of guides have extensive experience fishing the remote-access water of the Chimehuin, Aluminé, and Collon Cura rivers. These professional English-speaking guides are experts taking the rivers browns and rainbows on dry flies, as well utilizing nymphs and streamers for big trout. Combining the fabled rivers and top guides from Fly Fishing Andes with the accommodations, food, wine and setting of Tres Rios is sure to create a truly unforgettable experience for anglers.
Included in the rate: Pick up and return to Chapelco Airport in San Martin; daily guided fishing; accommodations; all meals, wine and non-alcoholic drinks during meals, open bar with assorted national liquor and beverages, use of the lodge’s private access waters, internet access; fishing license and taxes.
Not included in the rate: Airfare; departure taxes; transfers; hotels and meals in Buenos Aires (if required); laundry, tips to guides, tips to lodge staff, phone calls, tackle; flies and waders.
The “growing season” is short and these brookies take advantage and feed voraciously from ice-out (usually 1st week in June) until spawning time in the fall. These fish can pack on an additional 15 – 20% in body weight over the summer! As such, August usually produces the biggest fish (4 of the 5 current records). By the second 2 weeks in August, these big brookies begin staging at the inlets and outlets in preparation for their spawning run. The landlocked arctic char are caught early in the season, but during the warmth of summer, they seek refuge in the deeper parts of the lake. However, they begin staging for their spawning at the inlets and outlets in early September, the time that anglers have their best chances for trophy char.
THE CAMPS
In addition to the abundant Brook Trout, Crooks Lake and Eagle River offer chances for big northern pike, occasionally topping the 20 pound mark. Pike are taken trolling spoons and plugs, as well as large, saltwater size streamers. But in quiet, weedy backwaters or “steadies”, you can catch them casting flies or plugs around rocks and other cover. They love mice patterns, but will also explode on fly rod big poppers. Bring a 9 weight and your bluefish poppers!
Non-Fishing Activities:
Pirá Lodge is located in the northeastern corner of Argentina in Corrientes Province on the immense Iberá Marsh. One of the most unique and fascinating ecosystems in the world, the Iberá Wetlands is comprised of 3,500,000 (three million five hundred thousand) acres of unexplored and uninhabited marshland will be the setting for some of the most exciting fishing you will ever do. The marsh is a vast system of pristine creeks, rivers, shallows, and lakes roughly 2.5 times bigger than the Florida Everglades and is home to more than 350 species of birds, 85 mammals and almost 70 reptiles, along with this electrifying game fish!
The Marsh fishing is slightly more technical. This is generally clearer water and a stealthy approach is required. Again, the Marsh offers more opportunities for floating line fishing, and Pirá guides have even discovered these fish will eat buggy, rubber legged terrestrial dry flies!
Gourmet dining with Argentina’s famed beef and fine wines, traditional “asados” (BBQ´s), delicious regional as well as international cuisine desserts, and the fully stocked bar contribute to create the setting for perfect moments at the end of a perfect day.
The Estancia includes a number of buildings: Tipiliuke Lodge, old barns, a chapel and several family houses, which are beautiful and unique in their traditional and rustic Argentine architecture. Tipiliuke Lodge has 9 comfortable bedrooms for 18 guests (each with a private bathroom), a living room, dining room and cozy bar. While the lodge can accommodate 18 guests, they limit the number of anglers to a maximum of 10 anglers at any one time. Tipiliuke Lodge offers 220-volt electricity, domestic and international telephone service, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, authentic refined cuisine and knowledgeable personalized assistance.
Alberto Cordero and the Fly Fishing Andes staff of guides have extensive experience fishing the remote-access water of the Chimehuin, Aluminé, and Collon Cura rivers. These professional English-speaking guides are experts taking the rivers browns and rainbows on dry flies, as well utilizing nymphs and streamers for big trout. Combining the fabled rivers and top guides from Fly Fishing Andes with the accommodations, food, wine and setting of Tres Rios is sure to create a truly unforgettable experience for anglers.
