Kanektok River tent camps and float trips in Western Alaska — leopard rainbows, Pacific salmon, and wilderness base-camp weeks.
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Dave Duncan & Sons is one of Alaska’s most experienced tent-camp and float-trip outfitters on the Kanektok River, about 400 miles southwest of Anchorage near Quinhagak in the Togiak National Wildlife Refuge. The family operation — Dave and his sons — has built its reputation on this single exceptional river: wadable light-tackle water with huge numbers of fish, five Pacific salmon, leopard rainbows, char, Dolly Varden, grayling, and pike.
Lower reaches meet the Bering Sea on the tide with ocean-bright salmon; upper reaches branch into intimate trout water where mouse flies and dry presentations shine. Angler Adventures has booked Duncan trips for decades — when you want the Kanektok without a full fly-out lodge price, this is the program we recommend.
Leopard rainbows, Arctic char, Dolly Varden, grayling, pike, and all five Pacific salmon
Kanektok River, Western Alaska — Quinhagak / Togiak National Wildlife Refuge
Upper & Lower base camps (12 guests) plus wilderness float trips (8 guests)
Saturday-to-Saturday weeks · 2 anglers per guide/boat
Season: late June through early September (steelhead program dates vary)
Ask about Dave Duncan & Sons on the Kanektok — we book free of charge.
What makes the Kanektok so desirable is density of fish, species variety, a relatively small wadable scale perfect for light tackle and flies, and diverse character from tidewater to headwaters. Millions of salmon smolts leave each year; returning adults fuel rainbows, char, and Dolly Varden that gorge on eggs, fry, and flesh — one of Alaska’s great self-sustaining sport fisheries.
Lower Base Camp suits anglers focused on dime-bright salmon fresh from the salt — kings often need wet-fly and sinking-line work, while silvers and others can come to surface patterns like the Pink Pollywog. Upper Base Camp favors trophy rainbow water and exciting mouse-fly fishing. Both camps run Willie boats or jet sleds with two guests per guide, Saturday to Saturday (8 days / 7 nights). Guests fly Anchorage → Bethel → Quinhagak (Grant Aviation), then transfer by boat to camp.
Upper & Lower Base Camps
Central to both camps are spacious kitchen and dining WeatherPort tents with propane kitchens, dining tables, and a fly-tying bench. Sleeping tents are sturdy double-occupancy 10×12 WeatherPorts with cots and carpeting. Meals are lodge-caliber — homemade bread, fresh salads, quality meats — with hot showers and heated drying tents for waders.
Lower Camp uses 17-ft Willie boats (wide beam for casting, row like drift boats for bank rainbows). Upper Camp uses 18-ft jet sleds for skinnier water. Capacity is 12 guests per camp.
Kanektok Float Trips
Float trips are full wilderness — no facilities along the route. Duncan uses 16-ft Avon Pro inflatables with rowing frames, floorboards, and anchors so you can fish any drift. Stand-up sleeping tents, a central kitchen/dining tent, riverside hot showers, and a menu that rivals most lodges keep the week comfortable. You cover roughly 90 miles from a headwater lake to Quinhagak, meeting successive salmon runs as the river grows. Float trips are limited to eight guests (two per boat/guide) and ask a bit more group participation in camp life in exchange for water you cannot reach any other way.
Choosing a Duncan base camp or float means committing to one river rather than multi-river fly-outs. In return you pay significantly less than a fly-out lodge, and the Kanektok is as productive as Western Alaska gets.
Best Timing on the Kanektok
For the greatest variety — sockeyes, chums, pinks, and kings plus resident trout and char — look at late June and July. August favors silvers and pinks with the freshwater species. Early June, mid-July to mid-August, and the first two weeks of September are strong for rainbows and char (they fish well all season).
Dave Duncan & Sons 2026 Rates
Program
Duration
Capacity
Rate (USD pp)
Notes
Lower Base Camp
8 days / 7 nights
12 · two per boat
$7,100
Call for exclusive pricing
Upper Base Camp
8 days / 7 nights
12 · two per boat
$7,400
Call for exclusive pricing
Kanektok Float Trip
7-day float
8 · two per boat
—
Call for 2026 pricing
Invitation Creek Steelhead
7-day walk & wade
4
—
Call for 2026 pricing
Rates are per person in USD, airfare not included, and subject to change. Our booking services are free.
Included / Not Included
Included: boat transfer to/from Quinhagak, lodging, meals, boat and guide for each two anglers.
Not included: airfare to Quinhagak, fishing license (approx. $70 pp/week, subject to change), personal gear, fishing equipment (flies and lures sold at camp), sleeping bag, and gratuities (suggested guideline $400–$500 per person per week).
Angler Adventures arranges Alaska air and hotel segments and can advise on tackle after you book. Call with questions — we look forward to hearing from you.
Ready to plan a week on the Kanektok? Message us or call.
Dave Duncan & Sons Outfitters is unquestionably among the best and most experienced tent camp and float trip operators in Alaska. Dave Duncan’s success is due to the hard work of his five capable sons and the fact that Dave Duncan has made his stake on the river that many experts consider to be the single best river in Alaska (many say the single best sportfishing river in the world!) – The Kanektok.
Located some 400 miles southwest of Anchorage near the village of Quinhagak in the majestic Togiak National Wildlife Refuge, the Kanektok River is so “hot”, that early in his career Dave Duncan attempted to protect it by use of a pseudonym, the “Chosen River”. We first fished with the Duncans over 20 years ago, and for years we carried on Dave’s tradition referring to it as “The Chosen River”. In more recent years, authorities have limited the number of outfitters allowed to operate within the Refuge, placing this exceptional fishery in the qualified hands of a few conservation minded outfitters, like Dave Duncan. The ‘Tok as she’s now fondly referred to has developed such a reputation; even Dave calls it by its proper name these days!
What makes the Kanektok so desirable are: 1) it has incredible numbers of fish; 2) the great variety of species (enumerated below); 3) its size – a relatively small wadable river, perfect for light tackle and fly fishing, and 4) its diverse character – its lower reaches (where it enters the Bering Sea) seeing ocean bright salmon ushered in on each tide, and its upper reaches branching into more intimate, typical trout water.
The diversity of species abundant on the Kanektok include deep bodied, heavily spotted “leopard” rainbow trout, arctic char, Dolly Varden (and sea-run Dolly Varden), grayling, pike and all five species of Pacific salmon – kings, sockeyes, chums,pinks and silvers. Each species can be caught in impressive numbers.
Millions of salmon smolts leave the Kanektok each year to begin the salt-water phase of their anadromous life cycle. Rapidly growing to large size on the bounty of the sea, they return to
sustain their species, dying shortly after spawning. Their remarkable life cycle also sustains the healthy resident population of rainbows, grayling, char and Dolly Varden that feed not only on “fellow residents” such as insects and mice, but gorge themselves on salmon eggs, salmon fry and parr and even the flesh of post spawning dead salmon washing downriver. This near perfect example of nature’s self-perpetuating food chain results in one of the greatest sport fishing rivers in the world.
Dave Duncan & Sons – Upper & Lower Base Camps
Dave Duncan & Sons operates two base camps on the Kanektok; Upper Base Camp and Lower Base Camp. Central to both camps are the spacious kitchen and dining facilities housed in large, free-standing community area tents, which every evening become the center of activity. These contain a complete propane kitchen, dining tables, and a fly-tying bench. Sleeping facilities at both Upper and Lower Base Camps are sturdy, double occupancy 10 X 12 Weather Port System tents with cots and carpeting. The meals served are excellent and come with homemade bread, fresh salads, and large cuts of quality meats. The base camps even have a hot shower facility as well as heated drying tents for waders and wet clothing.
Dave Duncan & Sons use 17ft Willie boats at Lower Camp. Featuring a wide, 90-inch beam, these provide a very stable casting platform when fishing from the boat. They are also designed to row like drift boats when floating downriver casting to the banks for Rainbows. The Upper Camp, employs 18ft. Jet Sleds, which can navigate in skinnier water.
Both base camps are limited to 12 guests with one guide and two guests per boat. The camps operate Saturday to Saturday (8 Days/7 Nights). Guests fly from Anchorage to Bethel to connect with the Grant Aviaton flight to Quinhagak where anglers are met transferred by boat upriver to camp.
While both camps offer opportunities for all above species, anglers preferring to concentrate on salmon fishing usually choose Lower Base Camp to catch dime-bright salmon fresh from the salt. Fresh run fish are in prime condition and readily take the fly. While kings usually require wet fly, sinking line presentations, other salmon species (silvers in particular) can be teased into surface strikes with patterns like the now famous ‘Wog (Pink Pollywog).
Anglers preferring to concentrate on trophy rainbow fishing usually opt for Upper Base Camp to focus on the more diverse and intimate “trout water”. The rainbows on the Kanektok readily take “the mouse fly”, which makes for exciting surface (“dry fly”) fishing.
Kanektok Float Trips
These Alaska adventures are complete wilderness experiences, with no facilities of any kind found along the route. Dave Duncan & Sons has spent years researching and developing specialized camps and boats for comfort and convenience. Only the best inflatable rafts, 16′ Avon Pro’s are used. Each raft features rowing racks, floorboards to stand on, and anchoring capabilities that allow guests to fish any drift in the river. Most of Alaska’s big game and bird species are common in these areas and during the trip it will be possible to see many in their natural habitat.
The sleeping tents all have stand-up headroom and provide good shelter from any weather. There is also a large, central kitchen/dining room tent. The menu rivals most lodges with meals unheard of in a wilderness situation. And, if the above amenities aren’t enough, try their now famous riverside hot showers!
The mobility of these specially designed boats and tent camps allows guests to fish waters inaccessible by any other means. You cover 90 miles from Kugati Lake to Quinagak and encounter multiple runs of the various species as you make your way downriver. These outings were conceived for the fishing enthusiast who wants the ultimate in fishing and outdoor experience. Float trips require a little greater participation and group effort in daily camp operation by the fishing enthusiast and in return it offers a chance to see and fish country that can’t be reached any other way.
You will be flown by chartered amphibian airplane to an isolated wilderness lake surrounded by stately mountains, located at the headwaters of the Kanektok. This is the beginning of a remarkable adventure on a small river. The river continually grows in size and changes in character as it flows from the mountains, through the foothills and finally merges with the sea.
When it’s time to load the plane and return, the person going home is a different person than the one that came. He has a deeper appreciation and respect for the fishing experience and Alaska’s vast wilderness. Float trips are limited to eight guests, with one guide and two guests per boat.
If there is a word of caution, it involves the selection of a “Base Camp” or “Float Trip” over a fly-out lodge. When you select a camp or float with an outfitter such as Dave Duncan and Sons, you are electing to fish one river. Fishing a variety of rivers is not an option as it is at a fly-out lodge. On the other hand, Base Camps cost significantly less than fly-out lodges, and the Kanektok is as productive a river as you’ll find in Alaska.
Timing
If you’re looking for the greatest variety, we suggest the late June/July time period, when you can catch sockeyes, chums, pinks and king salmon in addition to the fresh water species – char, Dolly Varden, grayling, pike and rainbow trout. If you’re interested in silver and pink salmon (in addition to the fresh water species), we recommend the month of August. If your primary interest is rainbow trout and char, we recommend early June, the middle of the season (mid-July to mid-August) and the first two weeks of September, although rainbows and char are plentiful all season long!
Angler Adventures has sent customers to Dave Duncan & Sons for over 20 years and our many satisfied clients over this time period can vouch for Dave Duncan & Sons commitment to quality and service.
Our Services are Free!
2024 Dave Duncan & Sons – Season Pricing (Price are per person, airfare not included and prices are subject to change)
Duration
Dates
Capacity
Cost
Float Trips
Chosen River Float Trip
7 Day Float Trip
July 9 – August 16
8 – Two to a boat
$ 6,200.00
Base Camps
Chosen River Upper Base Camp
7 Day Base Camp
June 19- August 21
12 – Two to a boat
$ 6,500.00
Chosen River Lower Base Camp
7 Day Base Camp
June 19 – August 21
12 – Two to a boat
$ 6,400.00
Invitation Creek – Steelhead Camp
7 Day Base Camp
Sept. 11 – Oct. 16
4 – Walk & Wade
$ 6,400.00
Included in the cost are: transportation to and from Quinhagak; lodging, meals, a boat and guide for each two anglers.
Not included in the cost are: air fare to Quinhagak, fishing license ($70 pp/week, subject to change), personal gear, fishing equipment (flies and lures are sold at the camp), sleeping bag and gratuities (suggested guideline is $400 – $500 per person/week).
Angler Adventures has considerable experience arranging trips to Alaska. We obtain the lowest airfare from any major U.S. city and we are familiar with the seasonal flights within Alaska, such as from Anchorage to Bethel and Bethel to Quinhagak. We would be happy to make your airline and hotel reservations on your way to and returning from Dave Duncan & Sons.
We are also knowledgeable about tackle and techniques for fishing in Alaska. After making a reservation, we will send a complete listing of what to bring, and we are always available to consult with you over the phone. Please call with any questions. We look forward to hearing from you.
La Posada de los Farios offers spectacular guided fishing for brown trout and rainbow trout in the heart of Chilean Patagonia. Professional guides and deluxe accommodations make La Posada de los Farios one of the area’s premier fishing lodges.
La Posada de los Farios is situated on the Rio Cisnes (Swan River) with easy access to its tributaries and miles of nearby trout fishing water. The area is famous for its dry fly, streamer and nymph fishing for huge brown trout.
brown trout, rainbow trout
Professional guides and deluxe accommodations
Dry fly, streamer and nymph fishing for huge brown trout
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Patagonia, Chile fly fishing!
La Posada de Los Farios first opened in 1994 on a bank overlooking the picturesque Cisnes and has been a great success ever since. The lodge name, La Posada de los Farios, translates literally to The Inn of the Brown Trout.
The fishing lodge itself can accommodate a maximum of only 6 guests in 3 comfortable guests suites, each with private bath. The lodge’s small size ensures plenty of privacy and just the right amount of personal attention. The lodge is extremely well appointed, though we would not describe it as luxurious. However, the serious fishermen will certainly not find anything lacking.
Daily life at La Posada de los Farios is designed around daily guided trout fishing, though no personal comfort is spared on lodge guests. The resident chef, Fernando, serves delicious meals. His dishes are served family style and prepared with a focus on traditional Chilean fare, especially fish, chicken and beef. Fresh vegetables from the lodge’s garden complement Fernando’s cooking, as does the lodge’s expert selection of Chilean wines. Breakfasts and dinners at La Posada de los Farios generally served according to the daily fishing schedule; lunches are served streamside.
A few short steps from the fishing lodge are several miles of direct river frontage on the Cisnes. This part of the river is relatively large and slow moving, making it easily wadeable and great for after-hours wading. Several tributaries enter the Cisnes within walking distance of the lodge. Several small lakes, loaded with trout, are also easily accessed.
The majority of the daily guided trout fishing out of La Posada de los Farios is done wading or floating the Cisnes or exploring its countless tributaries and nearby lagoons. The Parque Nacional Quelat is also a favored resource of Posada’s professional fishing guides because of its diversity of unpressured trout fishing waters. Most of these areas are only a short car ride away. The scenery that surrounds the lodge and extends throughout this trout fishing paradise turns these drives into inspiring, sight seeing tours.
The best of the river fishing is less than 45 kilometers from the lodge’s front door. Here guests drift miles of dry fly water, teeming with mayfly activity and, at certain times during the Chilean summer, enormous hoppers. The native browns here feed on these morsels with splashy abandon. An incredible diversity of insect life and proliferation of hatches will challenge and delight even the most experienced angler.
Trout fishing conditions at La Posada de los Farios range from beginner to expert. Because of their thorough understanding of this fishery, Rex and his guides can ensure that the novice fisherman as well as the seasoned veteran will find challenges and success at La Posada de los Farios. Guests have many options for daily fishing. One might choose to fill his creel with the smaller brown trout which choke the shallower creeks, or to float the deeper stretches of the Cisnes for one of the many trophies that lurk there. The fishery also offers rainbow trout and the occasional king salmon.
La Posada de los Farios uses two new boats to drift the Cisnes. Guests usually leave the lodge right after breakfast to enjoy these floats and often return after dark. Guides will anchor the drift boats intermittently to wade the more productive stretches. A packed lunch will be brought aboard to eat beside the stream. Most of the fish in the Cisnes will be caught using streamers and nymphs. There is some very good dry fly fishing during the warmer parts of the summer, though. Rex calls floating the Cisnes, especially its lower stretches, “one of the most scenic fishing floats to be found anywhere in the world.” Rex has recently begun to explore these lower stretches, which flow through high granite canyons, and has already spotted some 30+ inch browns lurking there.
La Posada de los Farios is the only lodge in Chile that fishes this part of the Cisnes, and its guests have been rewarded with some enormous and very aggressive trout. An overnight trip can be arranged that offers a chance at fishing the famous Cisnes evening hatch.
It should be noted that while other areas of Chile have seen increased fishing pressure in recent years, the areas on which the La Posada de los Farios guides focus have remained relatively quiet. In fact, it is extremely rare to see any other anglers for your entire stay at the lodge.
Chilean Fjords
After several years of extensive research and exploration, Rex Bryngelson is now outfitting organized fishing excursions in the coastal fjords of Chile’s Aysen Region. The coastal fishing program is a unique opportunity to fish seldom-fished (let alone seen) rivers and estuaries for trout and salmon. Healthy populations of rainbow trout and salmon can be found cruising in the salt and up the mouths of the coastal streams accessed by Rex and his team of highly skilled and professional guides.
During the 1998 and 1999 seasons, Rex developed a coastal angling program that was fantastically successful. Anglers accessed pristine coastal rivers and bays, often taking dozens of 3 – 10 pound fish per day, both in fresh water and in the salt. Generally, subsurface fly patterns were used but, when conditions were suitable, it was not uncommon to take truly large rainbow trout on dry flies.
Anglers will have the option of going to the coast as part of their package at La Posada de los Farios during their stay if the fishing reports from the Fjordlands are good. With all the diversity and different destinations available near La Posada, guests will revel in the choices. Fishermen may also choose to overnight at the coast in a local “hosteria” ( for an additional $150 per night).
Another highlight of many trips to La Posada de los Farios is an optional horseback ride to a remote, privately owned lake. Accessing this private fishery involves a spectacular ride through arid country. The lake is full of unsophisticated brown trout that rise eagerly to dry flies. Here, anglers often have the rare opportunity to sight-cast to 20+ inch trout.
Posada de los Farios uses well maintained 4WD vehicles for transportation. The float fishing is done from a 14-foot self-bailing river raft that is very stable, safe and comfortable to fish from. Zodiacs and float tubes are used to access and fish the diversity of lakes. For fishing the fjords, Rex has a well outfitted 22 foot Panga with cabin that comfortably handles 4 anglers and 2 guides. La Posada de los Farios guides are all experienced oarsmen and expert boat handlers.
Non-angling companions are welcome; La Posada de los Farios offers a variety of non-fishing activities: Condors, parrots, kingfishers, ibis, woodpeckers, and more offer world class bird watching; a visit to some of the neighboring farms and villages is a fascinating day trip. It is often the most memorable part of a guest’s trip to Chile. The local rural people live a lifestyle like one would imagine it to have been like in the western U.S. a century ago; The Cisnes also offers some scenic rafting sections and even some class III and IV rapids; The country around La Posada de los Farios is laced with miles of horse trails which wind through forests and mountain vistas. La Posada de los Farios has a collection of docile animals on hand for guests’ use.
Our Services are Free! Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
La Posada de los Farios 2026 – 2027 Rates
Length of Stay
Double Occupancy (Shared Room and Guide)
Single Occupancy (Private Room and Guide)
3 Nights/2 Days
$2,700
$3,300
4 Nights/3 Days
$3,400
$4,100
5 Nights/4 Days
$4,100
$4,950
6 Nights/5 Days
$4,850
$5,900
7 Nights/6 Days
$5,600
$6,850
Add 1 Night and 1 full day of fishing
$800
$975
(Rates are in US dollars per person and subject to change.)
Take the guess-work out.
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Includes: guided fishing; ground transportation; lodge accommodations; all meals; beer; wine; Pisco Sours (Chilean national cocktail); and soft drinks.
Not included: hard liquor; items of a personal nature. Fishing licenses can be purchased at the lodge for $25.00 per week.
La Posada de los Farios also offers a special 10% discount for groups of 4 or more. Call or email us for details.
Anglers will be picked up and returned to Coyhaique, Balmaceda or any of the other regional destinations. The schedule at Posada de Los Farios can be custom-tailored to dovetail with packages or any of the other regional lodges, guide services, or South American angling destinations.
Scheduled Turn-Around Days: Any combination of Saturdays, Sundays & Wednesdays
Note: Guests who opt to explore the fishing in the coastal fjords with Rex have the option of returning to La Posada de los Farios each evening, for which there is no additional cost and is part of the standard package rate. Anglers can also opt to stay at a hosteria in one of the coastal villages at a rate of $150 per night / per person charge, to cover lodging and meals. The charge will be paid directly to Rex Bryngelson. Again, staying on the coast is optional but highly recommended.
A Peale’s dolphin takes flight in the Queulat Fjord. Quelat National Park, Chilean Patagonia.
Where the Fish Are Wild, the Waters Pristine, and the Season Is Ours
Updated on
Argentina is one of the world’s premier fly fishing destinations. Anglers come for the diversity: classic trout waters in the Andes, sea-run brown trout at the bottom of the world, and golden dorado in the north. The country’s reverse season—November through April—lines up with prime time in the Southern Hemisphere, so you can chase trophy fish while it’s cold back home. Add first-class lodges, experienced guides, and Argentine hospitality, and you get a trip that’s as much about the place as the fishing.
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).
A hillside perch above the Carrileufu River where veteran guides stage bespoke trout programs that mix classic floats, stealthy spring-creek sessions, and cross-border adventures into Chile. The lodge team has refined this operation for decades, balancing serious fishing with warm hospitality, chef-driven cuisine, and the kind of storytelling that only comes from a lifetime spent on these rivers.
Questions & Booking Bella Vista Lodge Top Fly Fishing on Rio Gallegos 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…
Estancia Laguna Verde is the only program that combines private shoreline on the lake with full access to the Barrancoso River and the surrounding chain lakes. From the lodge’s perch above the property’s namesake lagoon, anglers chase the heaviest rainbows on the continent while enjoying polished hospitality, single-room options, and guides who know every bay and beat by name.
The Limay River Lodge is the first and only lodge on the incomparable Middle Limay River in Northern Patagonia. This tailwater fishery produces trophy brown trout measured in pounds, not inches, along with strong rainbows—all on dry flies. With 12 access points and 90% dry fly action, the Middle Limay offers consistent fishing November through May. Accommodates 14 anglers.
Rio Manso Lodge is located on Lake Hess and the Manso River in Nahuel Huapi National Park, 90 minutes from Bariloche. This unpressured Patagonia fishery offers excellent wild rainbow, brown, and brook trout fishing on diverse water—drift boats, wading, and lake sight fishing. Strict catch-and-release ensures remarkable trout quality. Season: November through April. Accommodates 8 anglers.
Collón Curá Lodge offers 30+ miles of private access to the lower Collón Curá River in Northern Patagonia. Rainbow and brown trout, float and wade fishing. 8 guests, 4 double rooms. 45 min from Chapelco. Season Dec–May. Limay access late season.
Le Fario Lodge in Los Alerces National Park offers brown, rainbow, and brook trout fishing on legendary Patagonian rivers and lakes. Intimate lodge on Laguna Larga, gourmet cuisine, 1:2 guides. Season Nov-May. 1 hr from Esquel. UNESCO World Heritage setting.
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,…
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…
Questions & Booking Tipiliuke Lodge World-class trout fishing: Rio Chimehuin 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…
Las Pampas Lodge in Central Patagonia’s Río Pico region offers brown, rainbow, and brook trout fishing on 25+ miles of river, five private lakes, and 20+ private locations. European-style lodge, 8 anglers, 1:1 guide ratio, Le Cordon Bleu farm-to-table cuisine. Season Nov–Apr. 2.5 hrs south of Esquel.
Hit the south bank of the Río Grande for an unforgettable chance at collosal sea-run brown trout as well as other species that will make your flies scream for mercy.
The Rio Grande in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina is without question the finest sea-run brown trout river in the world. The first and most famous lodge on the river is the legendary Kau Tapen. Kau Tapen first opened in1985 and remains at the foremost of the world’s best fishing lodges, boasting not only a private tract of 16 km of some of the most productive water on the Rio Grande, but provides the ultimate luxury fishing lodge experience. It is little wonder Kau Tapen enjoys a loyal and…
Villa Maria water is a 15 kilometer stretch of the Rio Grande, directly below Kau Tapen’s lowest pools. Here, the Rio Grande flows through the enormous Estancia Jose Menendez. This section of the river has proven to be extremely productive water in recent years. This far downriver, most of the fish taken are dime-bright, fresh from the salt and exceptional fighters.
Aurelia Lodge is situated on the southern bank of the Rio Grande in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina, offering 8 miles of double bank fishing on the Rio Grande and 15 miles on the Rio Menendez. The lodge combines traditional estancia style with modern comfort, providing exceptional sea-run brown trout fishing for just 8 rods. Managed by veteran Rio Grande guide Peter Pereira Mullins.
Get ready for an adventure battling one of the toughest, most tenacious predators in the rivers of Northern Argentina – the Golden Dorado. The northern rivers and marshlands of Argentina provide miles of access to target this ellusive and beautiful monster. Located within the Corrientes Province in northern Argentina, Pirá Lodge falls within the Iberá Wetlands, while Suindá & Karandá Lodges rest in the upper & middle Paraná, relatively close to Corrientes airport.
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 that will be the setting for some of the most exciting fishing you will ever do.
Suindá Lodge offers premier golden dorado fly fishing on the Upper Paraná River near Itatí, Corrientes, Argentina. Chase the freshwater grand slam—dorado, pirá pitá, and pacú—in clear water with exceptional sight-fishing. Custom skiffs, 8–10 anglers, season October–May. Professional guides, farm-to-table cuisine, luxury accommodations.
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.
Questions & Booking Tipiliuke Lodge World-class trout fishing: Rio Chimehuin 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…
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…
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,…
Where to Fly Fish in Argentina: Regions at a Glance
Patagonian trout (Northern and Central Patagonia) Rivers like the Limay, Malleo, Collón Curá, and Chimehuin flow cold and clear through mountain and steppe. Brown, rainbow, and brook trout thrive here, along with strong dry-fly and nymph fishing. Many lodges and outfitters offer private or semi-private water, so you can spend days without seeing another boat. This is the Argentina most people imagine: big skies, gaucho country, and trout that respond to well-presented flies.
Tierra del Fuego and sea-run brown trout At the southern tip of South America, Tierra del Fuego is in a league of its own. The Río Grande and nearby rivers hold sea-run brown trout that migrate from the ocean—fish that regularly reach double digits and can exceed 20 pounds. The season is short and the experience intense: wading or fishing from beats on one of the most famous sea-trout rivers in the world. Trips here are premium and often book far in advance.
Northern Argentina and golden dorado North of Buenos Aires, the Paraná system and the Iberá wetlands hold golden dorado—powerful, acrobatic fish that crush streamers and surface flies. The landscape feels more like the tropics than Patagonia: marshes, big rivers, and a completely different fishery. Lodges here specialize in dorado, and many offer multi-day programs that combine several waters or lodges.
King salmon (Santa Cruz and south) In select rivers—including the Santa Cruz and others in the south—anglers can target king salmon during summer runs (roughly January–March). This is a niche but growing option for those who want something beyond trout and dorado.
FAQ about Argentina Fly Fishing
What Species Can You Target in Argentina?
Brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout across Patagonia; sea-run brown trout in Tierra del Fuego; golden dorado in the Paraná and Iberá regions; and in some waters, king salmon and other species. Lodges and outfitters will tailor the trip to the species and experience you want.
When Is the Best Time to Fly Fish Argentina?
The main season runs from November through April. December through February is peak for dry flies and general trout fishing in Patagonia. March and April can be excellent for larger migratory trout and more technical fishing. Tierra del Fuego’s sea-run brown season has specific windows—often late January through April—depending on the river. Dorado in the north can fish well across the warmer months. Ask us for the best window for your target species and region.
Do I Need a Fishing License?
Yes. Licenses are required in Argentina and are typically purchased per province or through your lodge/outfitter. Your program will usually outline how and where to get them.
What Gear Should I Bring?
For Patagonian trout, 5- and 6-weights are standard; bring floating lines and a selection of dry, nymph, and streamer lines. For sea-run browns in Tierra del Fuego, 7- to 10-weights and strong tippets are the norm. For dorado, 7- and 8-weights with streamer and topwater options. Your lodge or outfitter can provide a detailed list; we can help you match gear to your trip.
Is Argentina Catch-and-Release?
Many of Argentina’s premier lodges and waters promote catch-and-release to protect wild fish. Practices vary by lodge and region; we can point you to programs that match your values.
How Do I Get There?
Most trips start with a flight to Buenos Aires, then a domestic flight to a regional hub (e.g. Bariloche, Esquel, Río Gallegos, or a northern airport depending on the program). Lodges and outfitters often arrange transfers from the airport. We can walk you through flights and logistics for your chosen region.
Why Book Argentina Through Angler Adventures?
We’ve been matching anglers with the right lodges and rivers for decades. We know the regions, the seasons, and the programs—from Patagonian trout and Fly Fishing Andes to Tierra del Fuego and northern dorado. Tell us what you want (species, vibe, budget, dates), and we’ll help you get there.
Get in touch to plan your 2026 Fly Fishing Trip in Argentina
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Traful trophy trout and landlocked salmon in Northern Patagonia. Private wade fishing, elegant estancia, and easy access from Bariloche.
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Estancia Arroyo Verde is a family-owned fly fishing lodge on the Río Traful in Northern Patagonia, inside Nahuel Huapi National Park. The property has hosted traveling anglers for decades and is known for dramatic scenery, polished hospitality, and serious trout water.
Over 10 miles of private Traful water run through the estancia. Anglers target strong rainbows, heavy browns, and landlocked Atlantic salmon in clear, technical wade-fishing water. Access is fast from lodge to river, and pressure is typically low.
Arroyo Verde combines high-end estancia comfort with practical angling support. The main house and separate cabin allow flexible guest layouts, and non-angling activities can be arranged for companions.
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Landlocked Salmon — trophy fishery
Río Traful — Nahuel Huapi National Park, Northern Patagonia
10+ miles private wade-only water
10–14 guests — main house + lake cabin
5–15 minutes lodge-to-water access
Season: November to April
Classic estancia service in a private valley setting
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Patagonia trout fishing at Estancia Arroyo Verde!
The Traful is a clear, technical river where anglers target individual fish in structured current, pockets, and runs. Much of the program is wade fishing, and many anglers value this fishery for quality over volume.
Species and Tactics
Primary targets are large brown and rainbow trout plus landlocked Atlantic salmon. Big dries, mouse patterns, attractors, and streamers all produce depending on conditions, and clear water favors careful presentation.
Season and Access
The season runs November through April. Water levels and conditions evolve through the season, with peak travel demand from late December through March. Lodge-to-water transfer times are short, typically 5 to 15 minutes.
Accommodations at Estancia Arroyo Verde
The main house offers six en-suite guest rooms in a traditional wood-and-stone Patagonia estancia setting. Landscaped outdoor spaces and valley views create a relaxed base between fishing days.
A separate lake cabin provides additional privacy and a strong option for small groups or families. Dining focuses on Argentine favorites and lodge-style hospitality with local flavor.
Six en-suite rooms in the main house
Separate lake cabin for added privacy
Traditional Argentine and international lodge cuisine
Classic estancia ambience in private valley setting
Non-angling activities can be arranged seasonally
Current pricing is provided directly through trip planning. Contact us for current rates and availability.
Rates are per person in USD and subject to change.
Get in touch to plan your 2026 Fly Fishing Trip in Argentina
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
All meals, wines, beer, and local and international spirits
Professional guide services
Loaner fishing equipment (rods, reels, lines)
Not Included
International and domestic airfares
Transfers in and out of the lodge
Fishing licenses
Laundry service
Gratuities for guides and house staff
Getting to Estancia Arroyo Verde
From Buenos Aires, most guests fly to Bariloche (BRC), then continue by road to the estancia in about 1.5 hours. Chapelco (CPC) is also a workable option for some itineraries.
Nearest airports: Bariloche (BRC) and Chapelco (CPC)
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Brown and rainbow trout on one of Patagonia’s strongest tailwaters. 30+ miles float and 12 miles wade. Season Nov-Apr.
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Limay River Ranch sits on 80,000 acres in the high desert of Argentine Patagonia, with immediate access to the clear, productive Limay tailwater. Owners Ron Sorensen and Diego Gaiser developed this fishery over many years and opened the lodge in 2022 after decades of outfitting experience. The river is right out the front door, so logistics do not limit fishing time.
The Limay offers prolific hatches, strong rainbow numbers, and large migratory browns from El Chocón Reservoir. Anglers can fish multiple techniques in a single day: dries, dry-droppers, streamers, and sight fishing along rocky banks. The ranch controls over 30 miles for floating and 12 linear miles for wading side channels.
The lodge has six contemporary cabins around a central main lodge, strong food and hospitality, and practical angler-first logistics. Starlink WiFi, high renewable-energy coverage, and consistently renewed drift boats make this an excellent base for serious trout anglers.
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout — resident and migratory fish
Limay River — Middle Limay tailwater, Northern Patagonia
30+ miles float and 12 miles wade — private access
12 anglers — six double-occupancy cabins
River out front door — minimal daily logistics
Season: November to April (into May)
Starlink WiFi and high solar coverage
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Patagonia trout fishing at Limay River Ranch!
The Limay tailwater is one of Patagonia’s most productive fisheries. Anglers fish riffles, drop-offs, rocky edges, and side channels with dry flies, dry-droppers, and streamers. The ranch controls over 30 miles of float water and 12 miles of wade water, allowing broad daily options and minimal pressure.
Migratory Brown Trout
Migratory browns from El Chocón enter the river from mid-December and spread through January. These fish commonly run from the low 20s to well over 30 inches. Late summer and fall can be especially strong for anglers targeting larger fish.
Season and Techniques
Summer hatches are strongest from late spring into January, terrestrial fishing peaks mid-summer, and fall hatches build through April and into May. Anglers fish 0X to 5X with dries, attractors, droppers, and streamers depending on water and weather.
Accommodations at Limay River Ranch
Limay River Ranch features six private cabins (double occupancy) and a central main lodge with dining, bar, and social areas. The layout is modern, comfortable, and built around long fishing days.
Each cabin includes private bath, climate control, wood stove, and outdoor deck. The main lodge is a gathering point for meals, drinks, and daily planning.
Six double-occupancy cabins with private bathrooms
Main lodge with dining room, bar, and social space
Starlink WiFi throughout lodge and cabins
High renewable-energy operation with full-time backup
Professional drift-boat program on private water
Current pricing is provided directly through trip planning. Contact us for current rates and availability.
Rates are per person in USD and subject to change.
Get in touch to plan your 2026 Fly Fishing Trip in Argentina
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
All meals, wines, beer, and local and international spirits
Professional guide services
Loaner fishing equipment (rods, reels, lines)
Not Included
International and domestic airfares
Transfers in and out of the lodge
Fishing licenses
Laundry service
Gratuities for guides and house staff
Getting to Limay River Ranch
Most guests fly from Buenos Aires to Chapelco (CPC) or Bariloche (BRC). Typical drive time is about 2.5 hours from Chapelco and around 3 hours from Bariloche. Transfers are coordinated as part of trip planning.
Nearest airports: Chapelco (CPC) and Bariloche (BRC)
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Brown and rainbow trout on the lower Collón Curá. 30+ miles private water, float and wade, 8 guests. Season Dec–May. 45 min from Chapelco.
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Collón Curá Lodge sits on the banks of the lower Collón Curá River in Northern Patagonia. With more than 30 miles of exclusive river access, the lodge offers anglers an intimate base from which to explore one of the region’s most prolific trout fisheries. Just 45 minutes from the nearest airport, Collón Curá combines easy access with the kind of solitude and privacy that defines Patagonian fishing.
The Collón Curá is a classic freestone river—willow-lined banks, sand cliffs, rolling hills, and braided channels that remind many anglers of rivers in the American West. Rainbow and brown trout average 14 to 22 inches, with larger fish possible. The river sees consistent hatches and rewards dry flies, nymphs, and streamers. Both floating and wading are productive. Late in the season, the lodge also provides access to prime beats on the Limay River, about 90 minutes away, where big browns migrate into the river.
The lodge itself is warm and traditional: four comfortable double rooms for up to eight guests, a shared living room, and a separate dining room. Guest quarters are housed in a standalone cabin for tranquillity. Argentine hospitality runs deep—picadas and cocktails await anglers returning from the river, followed by refined dinners featuring Angus and Hereford beef or lamb cooked on the cross. As a purpose-built fishing lodge, Collón Curá is best suited for anglers who are there to fish.
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout — 14–22 inch average
Lower Collón Curá River — Northern Patagonia, Argentina
30+ miles private river access — float and wade
8 anglers — four double rooms, intimate lodge
45 minutes from Chapelco Airport
Season: December to May
Limay River — access late season for big browns
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Patagonia trout fishing at Collón Curá Lodge!
The lodge is positioned on the lower stretch of the Collón Curá, with private access to more than 30 miles of the river. The river sits within a 93,000-acre private ranch that encompasses the Collón Curá; as it flows from north to south, it collects waters from various tributaries, creating exceptional biodiversity that makes it one of Northern Patagonia’s most productive trout rivers. Riffle pools, braided channels, and deep drop-off pools bordered by willows and high-cut banks create ideal conditions for resident browns and rainbows. Anglers drift from point to point in modern drift boats, stopping to wade riffles, back channels, and braids along the way. The river features strong seasonal hatches, excellent hopper fishing, and consistent action on dry flies, nymphs, and streamers. Foam lines and willow-lined banks are particularly productive for dry-fly anglers using long leaders and small patterns.
The Limay and Caleufu
A major advantage of staying at Collón Curá is access to the Limay River, about 90 minutes by road. Towards the end of the season, large brown trout move into the Limay, and the lodge serves as a convenient base for anglers targeting these fish. The Caleufu River is also within reach for those seeking additional variety.
Our Guides
Expert local guides know the river intimately and will take you to areas with good current and structure. Fishing licenses are organized in advance so you can start fishing immediately upon arrival.
Season Overview
December – May: The fishing season runs from December through May. Each month brings distinct conditions—spring flows and aggressive fish early on, terrestrial action and hoppers in summer, and cooling water with migrating browns in fall. Flexibility with techniques (streamers, dry flies, nymphs) pays off as water levels and weather vary.
Accommodations at Collón Curá Lodge
Collón Curá Lodge is designed for anglers who want to focus on fishing. The main lodge building houses a shared living room where guests gather after a day on the water for drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and stories. A separate dining room sits a short walk away—ideal for evening strolls under the Patagonian sky.
Guest accommodation is in a standalone cabin close to the main lodge, offering tranquillity and separation from the common areas. Four comfortable double rooms sleep up to eight guests, each with a private bathroom.
Dining: The cuisine is authentically Argentine. Continental breakfast features freshly baked bread and dulce de leche. Shore-side river lunches include Malbec and the staples of Argentine picnic fare. Evening dinners are refined but relaxed—tender Angus and Hereford beef or lamb cooked on the cross, paired with fine local wines. Cocktails and picadas (Argentine hors d’oeuvres) are always on offer when anglers return from the river.
Four double rooms with private bathrooms
Standalone guest cabin for privacy
Shared living room
Separate dining room
Full house service—hospitality focused
Shore-side river lunches with wine
Continental breakfast with in-house bread
Rates
The operator does not publish rates on their website. Contact us for current rates and availability.
Rates are per person in USD and subject to change.
Ready to Plan Your Week?
Tap a button to reach our Patagonia specialists. Our services are free.
All meals, beer, wine, and spirits at the lodge and on the river
Professional fishing guides (1 guide per two anglers)
Fishing license (organized in advance)
Ground transfers from Chapelco/San Martín or Bariloche
Shore-side river lunches
Not Included
International and domestic airfares
Hotels, transfers, and tours in Buenos Aires
Gratuities for guides and lodge staff
Travel insurance
Personal purchases at lodge
Getting to Collón Curá Lodge
Most guests fly from Buenos Aires to either Chapelco Airport (near San Martín de los Andes) or Bariloche Airport. Chapelco is the nearest option—roughly 45 minutes by road—with daily flights from Buenos Aires. Bariloche is approximately two hours away. Ground transfers are arranged by the operator; once you arrive, a representative meets your flight and handles luggage and transport to the lodge. The lodge sits just off Highway 234 (RN 234), making it well-suited for multi-lodge combination trips with other Northern Patagonia destinations.
Brown, rainbow, and brook trout in Los Alerces. UNESCO World Heritage, gourmet cuisine, 1:2 guides. Season Nov–May. 1 hr from Esquel.
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Le Fario Lodge sits inside Los Alerces National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Patagonia’s Chubut Province. On the banks of Laguna Larga, just an hour from Esquel Airport, this intimate lodge offers access to legendary rivers, spring creeks, and emerald lakes—and some of the finest wild brown, rainbow, and brook trout fishing in Argentina. Owners Gonzalo and Laura Martinez, both trained chefs and fly fishing enthusiasts, welcome anglers with gourmet cuisine and genuine Patagonian hospitality.
The lodge’s prime location puts anglers within reach of the Rio Futaleufu, Rio Rivadavia, Rio Arrayanes, Lago Verde, Lago Krugger, and Laguna Larga—the latter right at the doorstep. Whether you prefer wading clear streams or floating stillwater, the diversity of fisheries ensures every day brings a new challenge. For those seeking trophy brook trout, Argentina Waters also offers a combined program that adds the Río Pico / Brookiland region—home to 20–25 inch brook and rainbow trout in some of Patagonia’s most pristine water.
Le Fario is built around tailored experiences. Guides create custom itineraries based on your preferences and the season, and a 1:2 guide ratio means focused attention on the water. After each day, world-class appetizers and Argentine wines await at the lodge. The combination of location, cuisine, and service has drawn anglers from around the world to this corner of Patagonia.
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout — rivers, spring creeks, lakes
Los Alerces National Park — Esquel, Chubut, Patagonia, Argentina
UNESCO World Heritage — pristine Patagonian watersheds
4–5 bedrooms — intimate lodge on banks of Laguna Larga
1:2 guide ratio — one guide per two anglers
Season: November 1 to May 1
Gourmet cuisine — owners are trained chefs, garden-to-table
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Patagonia trout fishing!
Le Fario Lodge sits in the heart of Los Alerces National Park, within easy reach of the region’s best trout waters. The program focuses on spring creeks, small lakes, and rivers up to the larger waters at hand. Whether you prefer to walk, wade, or float on lakes or rivers, the guides tailor each day to your style. Rivers include the Rio Rivadavia, Rio Arrayanes, and both stretches of the Rio Futaleufu; lakes include Lago Verde, Lago Krugger, and Laguna Larga—right beside the lodge. Each location is chosen for its seasonal peak, from dry-fly action to deep runs full of eager trout.
Le Fario Program (Los Alerces)
The standard Le Fario program runs seven nights with six and a half days of fishing. You’ll fish a different water each day—Rio Arrayanes, Lago Verde, Rio Futaleufu (first and second stretches), Rio Frey and Lago Krugger, Rio Rivadavia—and wrap the final morning on Laguna Larga before driving back to Esquel. All logistics, meals, and transport are handled by the lodge. The program runs November 1 through May 1.
Le Fario & Brookiland (Río Pico / Brook Trout)
For anglers who want trophy brook trout, the Le Fario & Brookiland program combines two areas: Le Fario in the Esquel / Los Alerces region and Brookiland in the Río Pico area, about three hours apart. Brookiland is a boutique retreat accommodating four guests, with access to El Engaño, Falso Engaño, Rio Corcovado, and Lago Vinter—waters that hold some of Patagonia’s healthiest brook trout populations. Trophy brook and rainbow trout average 20–25 inches, with larger fish possible. This program is ideal for a Patagonia Trophy Grand Slam (brown, rainbow, brook). The seven-night itinerary splits time between both lodges.
Our Guides
Argentina Waters guides are authorized by Chubut province and National Parks and know these waters intimately. One guide accompanies every two anglers. Each guide is equipped with professional tackle, rafts, oars, and everything needed for the day. Fishing typically starts around 8 AM and ends around 8 PM, depending on season and daylight.
Season Overview
November 1 – May 1: Main season. Early season (November, early December) can offer strong dry-fly action as waters clear. Mid-season brings consistent hatches and eager trout. Late season often sees larger fish and more technical fishing as waters cool.
Accommodations at Le Fario Lodge
Le Fario is a cozy lodge on the banks of Laguna Larga, inside Los Alerces National Park. Gonzalo and Laura Martinez—owners, hosts, and both trained chefs—do their best to make every guest feel at home. Gonzalo is an experienced fly fishing guide who knows the area by heart; Laura serves as lodge manager and is also a skilled chef.
Each of the four Le Fario rooms features a king-sized bed and a spacious private bathroom overlooking the lake and the Andes. The lodge has a spacious living room with a central wood fireplace and expansive windows offering views of the surrounding landscape. An outdoor hot tub sits next to the lodge for use anytime. A wooden wader room provides a comfortable place to change before and after fishing; a sauna is available next to it. A well-stocked wine cave offers a wide selection of Argentine wines.
Cuisine: One of the lodge’s highlights is the inspired food. Both Laura and Gonzalo have international culinary experience. Meals are prepared with local and fresh products, many from their own garden. A carefully chosen selection of Argentine wines accompanies each meal.
Four rooms with king beds, private baths, lake and Andes views
Spacious living room with fireplace
Outdoor hot tub
Wader room and sauna
Wine cave with Argentine wines
Gourmet cuisine from owner-chefs
Laguna Larga fishing at the doorstep
Rates
Contact us for current rates, customized packages, combo trips and availability.
Programs: Le Fario Program (7 nights / 6.5 fishing days, Los Alerces only); Le Fario & Brookiland (7 nights / 6.5 fishing days, Le Fario + Río Pico / Brookiland area). Rates are per person in USD and subject to change.
Ready to Plan Your Week?
Tap a button to reach our Patagonia specialists. Our services are free.
Transportation between Esquel Airport and the lodge
Full-time guide and coordinator during the trip
All meals, beer, and wine
All lodging as described on the itinerary
Not Included
Gratuities (tips)
Laundry
Land transfer between airports in Buenos Aires
International and domestic flights
Fishing license
Getting to Le Fario Lodge
Le Fario Lodge is located inside Los Alerces National Park, approximately one hour by car from Esquel Airport (EQS). Esquel has daily flights to and from Buenos Aires (except Tuesdays); the flight is about two hours. Once you land, an Argentina Waters representative meets you and drives you to the lodge. The transfer is included in the program.
Nearest airport: Esquel (EQS) Drive time: ~1 hour from Esquel to lodge
Why Anglers Love Suindá
“Best waters I’ve ever seen. Love the countryside.” — Gary K., USA
“Fabi was the best we could have expected. Carolina and staff were superb.” — Thomas K., USA
“Amazing staff, guides, food, lodging. Fabi and Pablo are so friendly and want so much to have us succeed. The lodging was fantastic and wine was exquisite.” — Jeremy Smith, USA
“The lodge, staff and food were all exceptional. Mati is a fantastic host—he made everything easy and the pace is beautiful. The guides worked exceptionally hard during tough conditions. Outstanding meals, exceeded expectations!” — Ethan Hooper, USA
Brown, rainbow, and brook trout fishing on 25+ miles of river, five private lakes, and 20+ private locations. European-style lodge, 8 anglers, 1:1 guide ratio, Le Cordon Bleu farm-to-table cuisine. Season Nov–Apr. 2.5 hrs south of Esquel.
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Las Pampas Lodge, in the Chubut Province of Central Patagonia, offers an extraordinary experience in a land virtually untouched by the modern world. Approximately two and a half hours south of Esquel Airport, well beyond where the pavement ends, you’ll find this European-style log and stone lodge surrounded by the Andes—and some of the finest brown, rainbow, and brook trout fishing in Argentina.
The lodge has access to more than 25 miles of world-class water on the Rio Pico, plus the Rio Pampas, Rio Nilson, Rio Corcovado, and five private lakes. From spring creeks to freestone rivers to mountain-lined still waters, the variety provides anglers the chance to fly fish for all three trout species—often in water so remote that gauchos herding sheep are the only sign of life. With more than 20 private locations, guests are guaranteed rested, productive fisheries and a unique Patagonia experience each day, all within a short distance from the lodge.
Las Pampas pairs this wilderness fishery with a 1:1 guide ratio—every two anglers get one guide and one assistant guide—plus gourmet farm-to-table cuisine from a Le Cordon Bleu–trained chef. The result is a top-shelf Patagonia experience that has drawn praise from Yvon Chouinard and countless returning anglers.
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout — rivers, creeks, and lakes
Río Pico — Chubut Province, Central Patagonia, Argentina
25+ miles of world-class river + 5 private lakes + 20+ private locations
8 anglers — intimate, European-style log and stone lodge
1:1 guide ratio — guide + assistant per two anglers
Season: November to April
Farm-to-table — Le Cordon Bleu chef, local ingredients
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Patagonia trout fishing!
Las Pampas is surrounded by an abundance of creeks, rivers, and lakes. The main rivers include the Rio Pampas, Rio Nilson, Rio Corcovado, and Rio Pico—which consists of more than 25 miles of world-class water. The five lakes are home to large and often aggressive trout that can be eager to come to the surface for dries or attack a streamer. The lodge also has access to more than 20 private locations in this area of Argentina. Most fishing is done on foot; within a small radius, an angler fishing for two weeks would never run out of new water.
Río Pico
Most of the upper Río Pico’s winding corridor is lined with willows; as it moves west it takes on waters from multiple spring creeks and the Rio Pampas and Rio Nilson. It eventually opens up to flow through lush grasslands and becomes wide enough to float. Most of the Río Pico is private and only accessed by Las Pampas guests. Aside from rainbow and brook trout, the stream is known for oversized brown trout that seem misplaced in such small water. It’s a dry-fly angler’s dream—these fish are eager to strike a well-presented terrestrial such as the Cantaria Beetle.
Spring Creeks and Lago Tres
A dozen spring creeks feed the Río Pico, offering classic technical fishing for fewer but larger brown trout. Some are several yards wide; others you can step over. For lake fishing, Lago Tres stands out. Rainbow trout here grow to legendary size—5–10 pounds are common. Most are caught by casting to the reeds and rocky banks with streamers and large terrestrials. Calm days offer sight-fishing opportunities. When your guide suggests the lakes of the region, say yes.
Our Guides
Las Pampas guides know these waters inside and out. They are Argentines who have spent countless days fishing and guiding the area; most return year after year. LPL guides provide all terminal tackle—leaders, tippets, and flies—so anglers are equipped for the diversity of conditions. Every pair of anglers is assigned a guide and an assistant guide for a 1:1 ratio. The assistant handles set-up and breakdown of lunch and equipment, so anglers spend more time with a fly in the water.
Season Overview
November – April: Main season. November and early December can offer strong dry-fly action as waters clear. January through March is peak for consistent hatches and aggressive trout. April often brings larger fish and more technical fishing as waters cool.
Accommodations at Las Pampas Lodge
Our European-style log and stone lodge looks out at the Andes Mountains and is entirely surrounded by nature, reminding guests they are truly in the heart of Patagonia. Throughout the property, it is nearly impossible not to be taken by the view of the Andes.
The lodge sleeps 8 anglers in four spacious bedrooms, each with two twin beds, private baths, and two of the rooms with fireplaces. The large common room features a dining area, bar, and lounge with a fireplace that brings everyone together over cocktails. Upstairs, guests find a living room, TV, fully-equipped fly-tying table, and a private office with computer and phone.
One of the first things guests notice isn’t the luxuries but the atmosphere. The entire team works together to ensure a relaxed environment where everyone feels welcomed—where guides and clients are all part of the family, as Yvon Chouinard put it.
Gourmet farm-to-table cuisine: The head chef, a Le Cordon Bleu graduate, uses only local and organic ingredients. Fresh eggs come daily from the property; chicken, lamb, and beef come from livestock on-site. Breakfast is served at the lodge; gourmet lunch with wine is served on the water by the guides. Dinner is served late, as is typical in Argentina, with meat and vegetable entrees paired with fine wines.
Four double-occupancy rooms with private baths
Two rooms with fireplaces
Common room with dining, bar, lounge, fireplace
Upstairs living room, TV, fly-tying table, office with computer and phone
Farm-to-table cuisine, Le Cordon Bleu–trained chef
Streamside lunch with wine
Guided fishing with 1:1 guide ratio
All terminal tackle provided (leaders, tippets, flies)
Rates
Contact us for current rates and brochure.
Ready to Plan Your Week?
Tap a button to reach our Patagonia specialists. Our services are free.
Personal gear (rods, reels, lines—tackle provided)
Why Anglers Love Las Pampas
“The best aspect of Las Pampas Lodge, other than the superb fishing, is the equalitarian atmosphere at the lodge, where the guides and clients are all part of the family.” — Yvon Chouinard (Patagonia Founder and Owner)
“A most sincere thanks from our entire fishing group for an amazing (and I do mean amazing) week at your lodge. Everyone agreed the trip could not have been better: fishing (superb and unparalleled); lodge (perfect in all respects in a remarkable setting); guides and staff (genuine, friendly, and wonderful people who all work well together as a team). You have fostered and developed a unique atmosphere that distinguishes your lodge.” — Dan Berry
“I enjoyed everything about this lodge. It was a perfect week. I couldn’t even think of anything that could be changed or should be.” — Penny Ritterbusch
“This trip represented virtually a perfect fishing experience for me. It was far better than I could have hoped for. I don’t believe that I have ever felt so pampered at any other place or time in my life, even in 5-star hotels. The staff was truly exceptional.” — Michael Payne
Getting to Las Pampas Lodge
Las Pampas Lodge is approximately two and a half hours south of Esquel Airport (EQS), well beyond where the pavement ends. Most guests fly into Buenos Aires Ezeiza (EZE), transfer 45 minutes to the domestic airport Aeroparque (AEP), and fly 2.5 hours south to Esquel. A minimum of four hours between international and domestic flights in Buenos Aires is required. The lodge staff picks up guests at Esquel Airport and drives 2.5–3 hours to the lodge. The return transfer is included.
Nearest airport: Esquel (EQS) Drive time: 2.5–3 hours from Esquel to lodge
Located on Strobel Lake, one of the most remote & wild places of Southern Patagonia
Updated on
Estancia Laguna Verde — Jurassic Lake, Patagonia
Jurassic Lake—locals call it Lago Strobel—is Patagonia’s windswept trophy factory, and Estancia Laguna Verde is the only program that combines private shoreline on the lake with full access to the Barrancoso River and the surrounding chain lakes. From the lodge’s perch above the property’s namesake lagoon, anglers chase the heaviest rainbows on the continent while enjoying polished hospitality, single-room options, and guides who know every bay and beat by name.
This is still the wild Patagonian steppe: five hours from El Calafate, big skies, bigger wind, and rainbows that average seven to nine pounds with legitimate double-digit fish landed every week. Laguna Verde’s seasoned crew keeps you on the fish with a fleet of Hilux trucks, quad access to remote bays, and a flexible daily plan that adjusts to wind direction and water levels.
Species: Trophy rainbows to 20+ pounds, plus resident browns and brookies in the chain lakes.
Season: October through April — peak lake windows December–March, prime Barrancoso runs early and late.
Weather: Expect steady Patagonian wind, cool nights, and dramatic shifts—layers, wading jackets, and sun protection are mandatory.
Location: Five hours west of El Calafate, Santa Cruz province — private shoreline on Lago Strobel plus exclusive Barrancoso River beats.
Tell us how you like to fish—swinging buggers in Monster Bay, sight-casting mouse patterns to new arrivals in the Barrancoso, or hunting brookies in the chain lakes. We’ll build the exact week around your priorities.
Ready to plan your week at Estancia Laguna Verde or add it onto a Tierra del Fuego sea-trout itinerary?
Strobel’s rainbows simply feed harder than any stillwater trout on the planet. Fueled by dense scud populations, they cruise Monster, Camelot, and Sea bays in clear water where you can sight-cast streamers, nymphs, or giant foam mice and watch fish in the mid-teens inhale the fly. The lodge’s private access covers more than twenty kilometres of shoreline, so your guide always has a protected bay in the wind and fresh water to explore.1
Even by Patagonia standards, the variety is staggering. Morning on the Barrancoso river can mean swinging small streamers through boulder-filled runs for chrome bright fish fresh from the lake; afternoons might move to Moro Creek or one of a dozen smaller lagoons where resident browns and brookies crush terrestrials. Guides carry full-day lunches, flex the schedule around weather, and keep you moving with Hilux trucks and ATVs staged across the estancia.
How the Program Flows
Guests typically arrive in El Calafate on Friday night, then transfer about five hours across the steppe on Saturday morning. Each fishing day starts with a briefing in the mudroom before splitting among Strobel bays, the Barrancoso, or the chain lakes. Expect one guide per two anglers, 4WD moves between spots, and quad shuttles or short walks when wind dictates a different bay. Lunches are cooked on-site and afternoons remain fluid—if the river is rising with fresh fish, guides pivot the plan so you’re there when it lights up.2
Bring quiver-building tackle: 7- or 8-weight rods with aggressive floating lines for the lake, intermediate or sink tips for heavy chop, and 5- or 6-weight outfits for the Barrancoso. Heavy fluorocarbon (0X–2X) is the norm on Strobel, while clear river water often calls for 8–10 lb leaders. The lodge stocks loaner rods and reels if something breaks, and there is a small pro shop with spare flies and essentials.
Lodge Life & Amenities
Laguna Verde’s estancia house blends Patagonian character with thoughtful comforts: ten single-occupancy rooms plus two doubles (all en suite), 24-hour electricity, Wi-Fi, a full bar, wine tastings in the cave, and twice-weekly laundry. Evenings revolve around chef-driven meals—Patagonian lamb asado, handmade pastas, and Mendoza varietals—followed by fly tying or stargazing under southern skies.2
Seasonal Fishing Calendar
Fishery
Prime Window
Notes
Lago Strobel rainbows
December through March
Average 7-9 lbs; frequent shots at fish over 15 lbs in Monster and Camelot bays when winds line up.
Barrancoso River run
October-November & late March-April
High flows draw chrome lake fish upstream; sight-fish pockets with streamers or large dries.
Moro Creek & chain lakes
November-February
Great for afternoons with lighter wind; brookies and resident rainbows crush mice and terrestrials.
Shoulder season stillwater
October & April
Fewer anglers, cooler temps, and light pressure on sheltered bays when lake fish move shallow.
2026–2027 Rates & Booking Notes
Laguna Verde releases space in limited blocks each season, and the prime summer weeks book 12–18 months out. Shoulder weeks (early October and April) are ideal for anglers targeting the Barrancoso run or looking for more forgiving wind windows.
Package
Travel Window
Rate (USD)
7 nights / 6.5 fishing days
Available all season Saturday – Saturday
$8,000 per angler (Double Occupancy)
7 nights / 6.5 fishing days
Available all season Saturday – Saturday
$8,000 + $700 Room (Single Occupancy)
4 nights / 3.5 fishing days
January to April Tuesdays – Saturdays
$5,200 per angler (Double Occupancy)
4 nights / 3.5 fishing days
January to April Tuesdays – Saturdays
$5,200 + $400 Room (Single Occupancy)
3 nights / 2.5 fishing days
January to April Tuesdays – Saturdays
$4,200 per angler (Double Occupancy)
3 nights / 2.5 fishing days
January to April Tuesdays – Saturdays
$4,200 + $400 Room (Single Occupancy)
Rates are per person in USD$ and subject to change. Contact us for seasonal promos.
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Accommodations at Estancia Laguna Verde with single or double rooms (subject to availability).
All meals with paired Argentine wines plus daily shoreline asados.
Open bar, soft drinks, and espresso service.
Fully guided fishing (two anglers per guide) with use of trucks, ATVs, and loaner rods/reels on request.
Round-trip ground transfers between El Calafate (FTE) and the estancia.
Wi-Fi, satellite TV lounge, drying room, and laundry twice per week.
Not Included
International flights to Buenos Aires and domestic flights to El Calafate.
Hotels and meals in Buenos Aires or El Calafate before/after your week.
Argentina fishing license (approx. $140 per week, paid at the lodge).
Guide and staff gratuities, premium cigars, specialty wines, or shop purchases.
Flies, terminal tackle, waders, and boots (available for purchase or rental on site).
Travel insurance, Global Rescue or medevac coverage, and any itinerary changes due to weather or airline delays.
Plan Your Week
Let us hold preferred space, coordinate El Calafate logistics, or pair Laguna Verde with a Tierra del Fuego sea-run brown trout week. Our services are free, and we’ll tailor every detail—from tackle prep to add-on tours in Los Glaciares National Park.
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.
Villa Maria is the second of Nervous Waters’ fine lodges on the Rio Grande. With 10 years of fabulous success at Kau Tapen, and with the demand for sea-trout fishing increasing, the Carreras brothers extended their fishing program by creating Villa Maria Lodge in 1996. Villa Maria water is a 15 kilometer stretch of the Rio Grande, directly below Kau Tapen’s lowest pools. Here, the Rio Grande flows through the enormous Estancia Jose Menendez. This section of the river has proven to be extremely productive water in recent years. This far downriver, most of the fish taken are dime-bright, fresh from the salt and exceptional fighters.
sea-run brown trout, rainbow trout, steelhead trout
Season: December through March (peak season January-February)
Professional guides and deluxe accommodations
Ecotourism possibilities and more in Tierra del Fuego
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Chile & Argentina fly fishing!
A charming 1920’s vintage house in the heart of the Estancia complex, was completely remodeled into a very comfortable lodge. Originally, this was to accommodate 4 rods, but since has been expanded to comfortably house 6 rods. Villa Maria has an elegant and warm, old world ambiance which appeals to small, intact groups as well as individual anglers. The service, amenities and cuisine are of the highest level.
Each morning, guests depart the lodge after breakfast to the fishing areas (20 – 30 minutes in comfortable 4WD RV’s). At 1:00 pm, anglers will converge at the lovely new “Fishing House”, a spectacular little lodge in it’s own right, overlooking the river. The Fishing House has a comfortable living room/dining area, a deck with picnic table and full barbeque pit for traditional asados, and three comfortable double bedrooms for siesta. The afternoon/evening fishing hours depend on the time of year; later during the longer days of December and January than in February and March. At dark, guests return to the main lodge at the Estancia complex for cocktails and dinner.
The Rio Grande, in the Villa Maria stretch, is larger water than at Kau Tapen upstream. The river has less meander here and the pools are wider and longer here, favoring more confident casters. While good casters can cover the pools comfortably with a single-handed rod, this is perfect water for the efficiency of double-handed rods. As with the upriver pools, fly and line choice is a function of water levels and temperatures. During periods of lower water and warmer temperatures. Floating lines and small flies (and often dry flies) are the norm. During higher or colder water temperatures, larger flies and sinking tips are required. The angler armed with a 12 – 14 foot double-hander with a Rio Scandi Versatip or Skagit line system with the interchangeable heads will be well equipped for all conditions.
Our Services are Free! Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Villa Maria Lodge 2026 Rates
Season 2026: December 26th, 2025 – March 27th, 2026
Dates
Cost per week per person
Dec. 26, 2025 → Jan. 2, 2026
$12,950
Jan. 2 2026 → Mar. 6, 2026
$14,950
Mar. 6 2026 →Mar. 27, 2026
$12,950
(Rates are per person and subject to change)
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Included: Transfer from Río Grande airport (RGA) to the lodge; All meals, wines, beer and local and international spirits; Professional guide services (2 anglers per guide/boat); Loaner fishing equipment (Rods, reels & lines).
Not Included: International & domestic airfares; Fishing Licenses; Laundry service; Day room (if needed) at Río Grande hotel on arrival date; Gratuities for guides and house staff.
Payment terms: A deposit of 50% confirms a reservation. The trip should be paid in full 120 days prior to the start date. At this point, the guest is responsible for total land costs and no credit will be applied. All deposits & payments are 100% non-refundable under any circumstances.
Tackle
Our recommendations about tackle, flies, clothing and accessories you might want to bring will be sent to you upon request. The lodge will provide back-up tackle if yours doesn’t arrive. However, guests are expected to bring their own tackle and flies. Flies and tackle are available for sale at the lodge.
Booking
Villa Maria operates at near, if not 100% capacity January through March, and enjoy nearly a 90% rate of re-booking. The demand for this incredible sea-run brown trout fishing is extremely high. Some prime spaces however are still available we encourage anglers to call as early as possible to try to secure the best available dates.
Tongariro Lodge is situated in park-like grounds on the banks of the Tongariro River adjacent to the southern shores of Lake Taupo. Tongariro Lodge is ideally located among some of the world’s best trout fishing waters and employs a staff of New Zealand’s top guides.
Enjoy a superb meal in one of the lodge’s dining rooms, relax in the lounge or enjoy a game of chess in the library. Established in 1982, the Lodge has an excellent reputation for gourmet dining, the finest accommodation, quality outdoor activities, and the very best in trout fishing guides.
Rainbow trout, brown trout
New Zealand – Lake Taupo region
Over 40 rivers and streams, four lakes
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about New Zealand fly fishing!
Tongariro Lodge is situated in the heart of rainbow and brown trout country. Trout here average four pounds and many over ten pounds are landed by Tongariro guests every season.
Tongariro Lodge guides are extremely knowledgeable about the nearby waters and guide guests on over forty different rivers and streams, including many that run through private land, as well as four lakes. Guides are also always exploring and love to share newly discovered water with their clients.
Tongariro Lodge runs its own rafts, four wheel drive vehicles and boats. Within a short overland distance from the lodge is some of the best back country nymph and dry fly fishing for sighted browns and rainbows in New Zealand.
Helicopter access options offer truly remarkable fishing, and are available at an additional cost.
For the dedicated fisherman Tongariro Lodge offers opportunities to stalk and delicately present a dry fly to trophy browns and rainbows in high country streams during the summer rainbows in shallow margins of Lake Taupo and other nearby lakes.
Tongariro Lodge also welcomes the opportunity to introduce newcomers to trout fishing. Tongariro Guides can teach learners the fine art of fly fishing or provide the enjoyment of a day’s trolling on Lake Taupo in comfortable surveyed boats. No experience necessary.
Tongariro Lodge offers old fashioned comfort and style combined with friendly personal service. Guest accommodation is separate from the main lodge to ensure maximum privacy.
Riverside chalets range from one to three bedrooms. Each chalet has private facilities and its own secluded sunny terrace with views of the Tongariro River, Lake Taupo, or the mountains.
Tongariro Lodge has developed an international reputation for fine food and wine. The Lodge specializes in serving fresh, local game and traditional foods.
The true atmosphere of the Lodge is best experienced in front of an open fire over a four course evening meal as the day’s activities are recounted. Breakfast and luncheon are provided at your leisure. Hamper lunches are a lodge specialty.
Tongariro Lodge prides itself on tailoring each package to suit individual guests. The Lodge can arrange transfers to and from airports at Taupo, Rotorua, or Auckland, as well as organizing all activities during your stay.
Tongariro Lodge 2025-2026 Rates
Share Twin Rates
Length of Stay
2-5 Bedroom Villa
1 Bedroom Chalet
Executive Villa
2 Nights (1 Day Fishing)
NZD $1,975
NZD $1,665
NZD $3,215
3 Nights (2 Days Fishing)
NZD $3,400
NZD $2,935
NZD $5,260
4 Nights (3 Days Fishing)
NZD $4,825
NZD $4,205
NZD $7,305
5 Nights (4 Days Fishing)
NZD $6,250
NZD $5,475
NZD $9,350
6 Nights (5 Days Fishing)
NZD $7,675
NZD $6,754
NZD $11,395
7 Nights (6 Days Fishing)
NZD $9,100
NZD $8,015
NZD $13,440
Single Angler Rates
Length of Stay
1 Bedroom Chalet
2 Nights (1 Day Fishing)
NZD $3,050
3 Nights (2 Days Fishing)
NZD $5,450
4 Nights (3 Days Fishing)
NZD $7,580
5 Nights (4 Days Fishing)
NZD $10,250
6 Nights (5 Days Fishing)
NZD $12,650
7 Nights (6 Days Fishing)
NZD $15,050
Rates are per person in NZD$ and subject to change.
What’s Included
Rates include all meals (cooked English breakfast, pre-dinner canapes, 3 course gourmet dinner and picnic lunch daily), accommodations, daily guided fishing and free WiFi.
Transfers
Taupo Airport to Tongariro Lodge per vehicle, one way (up to 8 passengers, including GST): $NZ174 per person
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Across the border from Esquel in Argentina, and deep into the Coyhue forests of the tenth region of Chile flow the azure depths of the Futaleufu river. A world away from the hustle and bustle that even sleepy Esquel represents, the “Big River” (for this is how Futaleufu translates from the Tehuelche tongue) rolls along, amid some of the most unspoiled mountain scenery on the planet.
South of the Chilean lake district, Futaleufu is a stand alone fishery. The freestone giant grows healthy stocks of rainbow and brown trout that are fed by abundant hatches of mayfly, caddis and stone flies. A heavy resident stock of fish and great hatches combined with classic fly water make the Futaleufu a trout fisherman’s paradise. Average rainbows and browns are in the 14″-16″ class but much larger fish are caught regularly. There is even the occasional sea-run fish, guaranteed to put a bend in your rod!
There’s a magic in the valley that transcends mere fishing. Futaleufu is a place to re-charge your batteries, to feel your spirits soar. The lodge’s inaccessibility through the Valle de las Escalas make this part of the river unique, lazy horseback trails wind down to the river’s edge, a riot of Lupins and other wild flowers, no engines pollute the river here chemically or audibly and time appears to have stood still. Futa Lodge stands sentinel on the river bank wishing you well on your daily fishing foray, its lights twinkling a greeting in the evening as you return from the river.
Since the mid-eighties Futa Lodge has welcomed the greatest names in fishing, from Lefty Kreh and Mel Kreiger to Lee and Joan Wulff. The reason they came is the same now as it always has been, Futa represents the best of Chilean fishing, hospitality, accommodations, guiding and service.
Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Sea-run Brown Trout, Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, Silver Salmon, Atlantic Salmon
Valle de las Escalas – Exclusive 6-rod operation
Easy access to prime water right from the lodge
Superb dry fly and streamer fishing
Custom built fishing rafts and professional guides
Full stable of horses for river access
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Chile fly fishing!
Futa Lodge fishes primarily for Brown and Rainbow trout, with dry and wet flies in the Futaleufu river itself. The lodge also fishes neighboring tributaries and lakes which are mostly populated by Browns and Rainbows. Other species occasionally encountered in the Futaleufu and Espolon rivers include Chinook, Silver & Atlantic Salmon, Sea-run Brown Trout and Steelhead. During a full week stay, anglers can visit different waters each day.
Easy access to some of the prime water on the Futaleufu river from right in front of the lodge. Great wade and drift boat fishing. Superb Dry fly and Streamer fishing. Varied fishing program taking in local tributaries and Lakes.
Fly Gear
Nine foot 4-7 weight rods for dry flies, 5-8 weight rods for wet-flies and streamers. Floating lines and sink tip and fast sinking lines. 8 foot to 12 foot leaders tapered down to two pound tippet for dry-flies and tapered down to 6 lbs for streamers.
Flies in Dry fly would be all mayfly patterns from size 12-20, spent patterns in similar sizes. Nymphs and Scuds in sizes 10-18 weighted and un-weighted. Streamers, Sculpins and Wooly Buggers in sizes 6-12.
Fishing Schedule is flexible but will normally start after breakfast at 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM. Shore lunches are the norm followed by fishing in the afternoon until into the evening. Seasonal changes will take into account the changing light but early season fishing may be as late as 10 PM, late season as early as 7 PM.
Futaleufu Lodge is strictly a catch and release fishery.
Non-Fishing Activities
White-water rafting and kayaking in the Futaleufu River.
Horse-riding through the magical coyhue forests.
Hiking to local waterfalls.
Bird watching
Futa Lodge 2025-2026 Rates
Season: December 2025 – April 2026
Length of Stay
Shared room and boat
Single room and boat
7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing
$6,950
$11,120
6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing
$6,100
$9,760
5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing
$5,550
$8,880
4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing
$4,750
$7,600
3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing
$3,750
$6,000
Rates are per person in USD$ and subject to change.
Take the guess-work out.
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
Transfers from Bariloche or Esquel (price available upon request)
Fishing licenses (approximately $50)
Gratuities for guides and house staff
Flies
In-house laundry service
International phone calls
Tours, shopping trips, or any items of a strictly personal nature
Payment Terms
To confirm reservations, a 50% deposit is required within 14 days. The balance is due 120 days prior to the start date. All deposits and payments are 100% non-refundable under any circumstances.
Additional Rates:
Single room and boat: 60% surcharge on base rate
Non-angler: $650 per night (subject to availability)
Full-day fishing (arrival/departure): $850 per boat
Half-day fishing (arrival/departure): $750 per boat
Across the border from Esquel in Argentina, and deep into the Coyhue forests of the tenth region of Chile flow the azure depths of the Futaleufu river.
A world away from the hustle and bustle that even sleepy Esquel represent, the “Big River”; (for this is how Futaleufu translates from the Tehuelche tongue) rolls along, amid some of the most unspoiled mountain scenery on the planet.
South of the Chilean lake district, Futaleufu is a stand alone fishery. The freestone giant grows healthy stocks of rainbow and brown trout that are fed by abundant hatches of mayfly, caddis and stone flies. A heavy resident stock
of fish and great hatches combined with classic fly water make the Futaleufu a trout fisherman’s paradise. Average rainbows and browns are in the 14″-16″ class but much larger fish are caught regularly.
There is even the occasional sea-run fish, guaranteed to put a bend in your rod! In truth though, whilst the chance of a big fish is a daily occurrence, it’s hard to be totally focused on the fishing in a place this special.
There’s a magic in the valley that transcends mere fishing. Futaleufu is a place to re-charge your batteries, to feel your spirits soar.
The lodges inaccessibility through the Valle de las Escalas make this part of the river unique, lazy horseback trails wind down to the rivers edge, a riot of Lupins and other wild flowers, no engines pollute the river here chemically or audibly and time appears to have stood still. Futa Lodge stands sentinel on the river bank wishing you well on your daily fishing foray, its lights twinkling a greeting in the evening as you return from the river.
Since the mid -eighties Futa Lodge has welcomed the greatest names in fishing, from Lefty Kreh and Mel Kreiger to Lee and Joan Wulff. The reason they came is the same now as it always has been, Futa represents the best of Chilean fishing, hospitality, accommodations, guiding and service.
The Fishing
Futa Lodge fishes primarily for Brown and Rainbow trout, with dry and wet flies in the Futaleufu river itself. The lodge also fishes neighboring tributaries and lakes which are mostly populated by Browns and Rainbows.
Other species occasionally encountered in the Futaleufu and Espolon rivers include Chinook, Silver & Atlantic Salmon, Sea-run Brown Trout and Steelhead. During a full week stay, anglers can visit different waters each day.
Easy access to some of the prime water on the Futaleufu river from right in front of the lodge. Great wade and drift boat fishing. Superb Dry fly and Streamer fishing. Varied fishing program taking in local tributaries and Lakes.
Fly Gear: Nine foot 4-7 weight rods for dry flies, 5-8 weight rods for wet-flies and streamers. Floating lines and sink tip and fast sinking lines. 8 foot to 12 foot leaders tapered down to two pound tippet for dry-flies and tapered down to 6 lbs for streamers.
Flies in Dry fly would be all mayfly patterns from size 12-20, spent patterns in similar sizes. Nymphs and Scuds in sizes 10-18 weighted and un-weighted. Streamers, Sculpins and Wooly Buggers in sizes 6-12.
Fishing Schedule is flexible but will normally start after breakfast at 8:00 AM – 8:30 AM. Shore lunches are the norm followed by fishing in the afternoon until into the evening. Seasonal changes will take into account the changing light but early season fishing may be as late as 10 PM, late season as early as 7 PM.
Futaleufu Lodge is strictly a catch and release fishery.
Location: Futa Lodge is situated in the Valle de las Escalas on the Futaleufu River, about half way between Puerto Montt and Coyhaique, 40 minutes drive from the village of Fuateufu.
How to get there: From Argentina, there are weekly flights to Esquel. You will be met by a lodge representative, cross the border to Chile and driven to the lodge (approx 1 1/2 hours)
By air from Santiago and Puerto Montt to Chaiten. You will be met in Chaiten and transfers to the lodge by 4WD vehicle (approx 4 hours).
From Puerto Montt you can also charter direct to the Futaleufu airport, where you will be met by a lodge representative and driven to the lodge (approx 40 minutes).
Facilities & Services
Capacity of 6 rods. Accommodations: Guests are housed in the main lodge, in comfortable twin rooms with private bathroom. Bedrooms have efficient wood burning stoves, and bathrooms are newly modernized, with plenty of hot water.
Extended Dining room, living room and bar areas with ample room for relaxing by the log fire.
Fly-tying table and extensive selection of materials. Fly-shop fully equipped with flies, rods, reels, lines and selected items of clothing.
Professional Local and International English speaking guides, trained in first aid and C.P.R all of whom are also qualified casting instructors. Quality custom Built fishing Rafts with swivel ended frames Fore and Aft. 4WD double cabin vehicles.
Full stable of horses, so anglers can access rivers on horseback should they choose to do so.
All inclusive bar featuring local spirits and the famous pisco sour cocktails. Wonderful wine selection served with dinner. Our wines ar
e selected from Chile’s finest vineyards. Gourmet cuisine featuring a variety of typical Chilean dishes such as curanto and sopaipillas, home made breads and desserts and fresh vegetables from our kitchen garden.
Cooked shore lunches served with wine, beer and hot drinks. Lamb asados, attended by a local dance troop who will demonstrate the Cueca (national dance). This special evening has been a long standing tradition at the Lodge and most popular with guests.
Maid and laundry service. 24 hour internet service.
Non-fishing activities:
White-water rafting and kayaking in the Futaleufu River.
Horse-riding through the magical coyhue forests.
Hiking to local waterfalls.
Bird watching
Our Services are Free!
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Futa lodge 2020 – 2021 Rates
Rates are based on double occupancy and shared guide 7 nights / 6 days of fishing, $5,950 per person (subject to change). Shorter packages and Special packages combining fishing in Futa Lodge and Nervous Waters lodges in Argentina can be arranged.
The lodge is open from December – March.
Included: Lodging, meals, local spirits and wines at the lodge, transfers from Chaiten or Esquel, fishing license
Not included: gratuities for guides and staff, airfares, laundry service, transfer from Bariloche or Esquel (price available upon request).
Dave and Christine Decker’s Complete Fly Fisher is one of Montana’s finest fishing lodges and is ideally situated directly on the legendary Big Hole River.
CFF specializes in dry fly fishing, which is best when the water levels drop sometime after the fourth of July.
The record fish at the Complete Fly Fisher is a 30-inch, 8-pound brown trout taken on a dry fly. That fish was the exception, but fish over three pounds are landed every year.
Brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout
Expert Guides – Professional local guides ensure a top-tier fishing experience for all skill levels.
The Big Hole, Wise and Beaverhead Rivers were traditionally the Complete Fly Fishers main area of expertise. However, in recent years the lodge has expanded its repertorie of waters to include Rock Creek, the Ruby, Red Rock, Bitterroot, Clarks Fork, Jefferson, Madison, Missouri and Yellowsone Rivers, as well as Spring Creek Fishing. The Big Hole remains a main staple of the lodge’s angling diet.
CFF has selectively guided anglers down Rock Creek for many seasons. Several years ago, through new partnerships with the U.S. and Lolo Forests Services, CFF has obtained the necessary permits to make this special creek available to all of its clients. For steady action and scenery, many anglers feel that Rock Creek is unequaled.
CFF has also obtained permission from the U.S. Forest Serivice to maintain a seasonal camp along the banks of Rock Creek, allowing guests to overnight in this wild and beautiful river corridor. Guests will enjoy comfortable accommodations and fresh cuisine excellently prepared by Complete Fly Fisher staff. This wilderness adventure should be booked well in advance of your trip.
Throughout Montana and the American west, the Jefferson River is known for its trout of immense size and unyielding character. The harsh environmental conditions of the Jefferson and natural selection have left only the strongest and most aggressive survivors. These fish are opportunistic feeders, attacking high-protien whitefish, sculpins and crayfish. Complete Fly Fisher’s biggest and strongest trout are routinely pulled from the Jefferson.
The Big Hole has over 100 miles of fishable water. While there is very good fishing near the lodge, most guests choose to float the river, stopping to wade the productive pools. The scenery is magnificent as you drift through cattle ranches and canyons. It is one of the very few western rivers that, in addition to brown, rainbow, and brook trout, holds cutthroat trout and grayling.
In addition to the Big Hole and it’s tributary, the Wise River (pictured below), is also a freestone river. Big boulders and willowed banks make for great pocket water fishing.
The Complete Fly Fisher is an ideal place for couples, families, or groups composed of expert and novice fly fishermen. Experts will be challenged by the Big Hole’s browns. Novices will return from a week’s outing with a feeling of accomplishment, having been taught casting skills by competent instructors. The CFF staff teaches people to fish while they’re fishing.
There is a tackle shop that carries Sage, Loomis, and Winston rods and accessories. Even if you arrive without a rod or reel, the CFF will outfit you with their brand name equipment, a service, which is included in the cost. To help you decide on when to schedule your angling adventure, a month-by-month description follows:
JUNE: From around June 10th, the giant Salmon flies begin to emerge in the Lower Big Hole River. This emergence steadily moves upstream until early July. Huge dry flies and nymphs that imitate the naturals will bring the big boys out. As large trout protect prime feeding stations, streamer patterns can bring thrilling strikes. High, fast water makes this a truly exciting time to be on the Big Hole River.
JULY: Golden stone and tremendous Caddis fly hatches replace the Salmon flies. As water drops and clears, comfortable wading is now possible and trout will spread out making for more diversified angling. July offers steady fishing from about dawn til dusk; and we do fish until dark! Weather can be particularly nice during July, with dry flies and sunshine the daily fare.
AUGUST: The hoppers are out! Caddis and small Mayflies are hatching early and late in the day. Excellent streamer fishing can be yours, along with the fish of a lifetime. Terrestrials are abundant and trout are looking for them. Flat-water angling is available for the spring creek devotee; small flies, picky fish, great challenge and usually superb weather!
SEPTEMBER: Fall is beautiful on the Big Hole and can generate some spectacular angling. Brown trout moving to spawn are very aggressive and smash big streamers. Steady dry-fly fishing and the season’s lowest water bring anglers from all over the world to fish the Big Hole. While floating is still effective, wading can be tremendous sport and is recommended. Weather can range from hot and dry, to cool and wet, so come prepared for everything.
At the Complete Fly Fisher a maximum of 14 guests are accommodated in six spacious cottages and a master suite located in the main lodge.
The Complete Fly Fisher has traditionally been known for its excellence in the dining room as well. They take great pride in finding the most creative and enthusiastic chefs to prepare culinary adventures to accompany the world class fishing. Typically each week’s menu is tailored to meet guests’ preferences and pallet.
Fly Fishing EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES TO BRING
Rods: DRY FLY and NYMPH: 8’ to 9’ for #4 to #6 lines.
STREAMERS: 8½ to 9½ for #6 to #8 lines.
Lines: All dry lines, weight-forward or double-taper.
Clothing: Fly fishing garb such as vests, waders, boots and the like are quite handy, but not absolutely necessary. We have at our disposal many items that you may need in this regard. Please inquire ahead. A good set of rainwear is essential because weather can range from hot and dry, to cold and wet. We highly recommend a hat with sun visor, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent.
In case you forget something, any or all of these items are available from Complete Fly Fisher’s well-stocked Fly Shop at fair prices. If you have any equipment questions, please contact us.
NOTE: For those of you who do not have rods or reels, etc., Complete Fly Fisher has top quality equipment available for guests use at no additional charge.
The Complete Fly Fisher 2026 Rates & Packages
Length of Stay
Rate per Person (USD)
7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing
$6,825
6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing
$6,195
5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing
$5,460
4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing
$4,620
3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing
$3,465
Rates are in US$ and subject to change
Book Your Montana Fly-Fishing Adventure
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
Contact us for current availability and pricing, seasonal discounts, special offers
Single occupancy room – $200/night additional charge.
If only one person is fishing with a guide, there is a $300/day additional charge.
This rate includes:
Lodging
Guided Fishing in Sotar Rafts
All meals each day
Breakfast in the lodge
Streamside lunches
Cocktail hour with appetizers and Dinner in the River Room
All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at the lodge
Fully stocked refrigerators in your rooms
All fishing equipment (if you don’t want to bring your own)
All flies, leaders, etc. used by the guides
Waders and/or wading shoes
Butte airport transfer
Airport transfers from Missoula or Bozeman are $600 for 1-4 people, round-trip. For larger groups, please contact us for more options.
This rate does not include: Airfare to Montana; 10% Gratuities for lodge staff (added at checkout); Gratuities for fishing guides; Green fees and shuttles if you choose to golf; Horseback riding; Guided nature/photography hikes; Fishing licenses; Special drink requests.
Depending upon availability, anglers may extend a stay beyond 6 nights/5 days. Trips can be extended at a cost of $960 per day (subject to change). This rate also applies for stays of less than 6 nights.
A 50% deposit per person is necessary to secure a reservation. The balance is payable upon departure from the Complete Fly Fisher in cash, travelers checks or by personal check.
We also represent guides throughout Montana and can design individual itineraries should you want to extend your trip. The Complete Fly Fisher is in great demand, so it is a good idea to plan well ahead.
(From L to R) Jefferson River, Bitteroot River and Beaverhead River
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.
Brown trout (resident 17-22″, migratory measured in pounds), rainbow trout, all on dry flies
Season: Early November through end of May (consistent tailwater fishing year-round)
Location: Middle Limay River, Northern Patagonia—mid-point access to 12 fishing beats
Tailwater fishery—90% dry fly fishing with large attractor patterns
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Argentina fly fishing at Limay River Lodge!
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
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.
Lodge Location & Access
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.
Accommodations
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.
Equipment & Guides
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.
Limay River Lodge 2025 – 2026 Rates
Rates are per person based on 7 nights accommodations and 6 days guided fishing with two people sharing a room and a guide daily. Shorter packages are available. Please contact us for current rates and availability.
$990 per night, per person • Private room request add $200 per night, per angler • Single (private) guide add $200 per day, per angler •Non-angling rates are available, please contact us for details
Round Trip driving transfers between the lodge and Bariloche, San Martin, or Neuquen, $175 per person, per transfer Prices for single guide requested is $200 a day and single room requested is $200 per night.
Rates are in $USD, are per person, and subject to change; confirm current pricing when you inquire.
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Included & Not Included
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.
Booking at Limay River Lodge is easy:
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
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.
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.
Golden Dorado (3-6 lbs average, 10+ lbs common, fish over 25 lbs possible)
Season: Mid-October through April (Argentine spring and summer)
Weather: Warm spring and summer conditions in Corrientes Province
Location: Iberá Marshlands, Corrientes Province, Argentina—3.5 million acres of pristine wetlands
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Argentina Golden Dorado fishing!
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 that 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!
Fishing Program & Techniques
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 Corrientes River
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
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
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!
What to Expect
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.
Fishing Schedule & Gear
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.
Lodge Accommodations & Amenities
Pirá Lodge is designed to provide its guests not only with a remarkable fishing experience, but also with maximum comfort. The lodge accommodates 12 guests (10 anglers) in 5 rooms and a cottage with 2 rooms. Each room is 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.
Non-Fishing Activities
Other activities available are Kayaking, Bird watching, Horseback riding and snorkeling. Pirá is a strictly CATCH AND RELEASE fishery and strongly encourages the use of barb-less hooks.
Getting to Pirá Lodge
There are a number of options for travel to Pirá 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 Lodge 2025 – 2026 Rates
Season: October 2025 – April 2026. Rates are in USD per person, based on shared occupancy and boat.
Package Length
Price Per Person
7-nights / 6-days Fishing
$7,950
6-nights / 5-days fishing
$7,495
5-nights / 4-days fishing
$6,395
4-nights / 3-days fishing
$5,150
3-nights / 2-days fishing
$3,950
Rates are per person in USD$ and subject to change
Booking at Pirá Lodge is easy:
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
Occupancy: 12 guests, 10 anglers – 5 rooms & a cottage with 2 rooms. Check in after 2PM / Check out before 10AM.
Single Room & Boat: 60% surcharge
Non-Fisher: $650 per night per person
Fishing License: $100 per person
Full day fishing on arrival or departure day: $850 per boat
Half day fishing on arrival or departure day: $650 per boat
Included & Not Included
Included: Accommodations based on double occupancy; all meals, wines, beer and local and international spirits; professional guide services (2 anglers per guide/boat); loaner fishing equipment (rods, reels & lines).
Not Included: International & domestic airfares; private charters; fishing licenses; laundry service; transfers in & out of the Lodge; gratuities for guides and house staff.
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.
As its name implies, Five Rivers Lodge is in close proximity to the Beaverhead, the Big Hole, the Ruby, the Jefferson and the Madison Rivers, each famous for the large trout that call them home. Guests enjoy miles of wading access, floats on bigger water or spectacular horseback trips to fish the high mountain lakes and streams. There is also private water directly in front of the lodge for guests who would like to get in some practice or some extra hours of fishing. Many Five Rivers’ guests have taken their personal best from this water.
Brown trout and rainbow trout in legendary blue-ribbon rivers
Season: Late spring through fall with exceptional hopper fishing in late summer
Weather: Warm summer days with cool mountain evenings in the Beaverhead Valley
Location: Beaverhead Valley, Montana, near Dillon with access to five legendary rivers
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Montana fly fishing!
In addition to the big name rivers, there are miles of spring creeks and streams that offer a more intimate fishing experience. Both beginners and experts will enjoy fishing these waters, which receive little pressure. Each hold good numbers of trout with a variety of dispositions from picky to voracious trout that will explode on anything resembling a “hopper”.
Each section of the private water is rested (some sections are only fished once a week). The limited numbers of anglers and attention to fishing pressure insures privacy and a quality fishing experience. Five Rivers’ catch and release policy protects the wild, native trout. With access to a wide variety of private waters and blue ribbon trout streams, Five Rivers Lodge offers some of the finest fishing in the United States. All of this without the crowds usually associated with world-class fishing, except for the birds, waterfowl, wildlife and wildflowers that are abundant in this mountainous section of the Lewis & Clark Trail; so don’t forget your camera!
Experienced Guides & Flexible Scheduling
The guides at Five Rivers are experienced, hard working and excellent teachers. They all enjoy working with anglers at any level of experience or expertise. The guides also have a unique opportunity to guide during the winter months at Cinco Rios, the sister lodge to Five Rivers, in Southern Chile. These guides are willing to stay out well into the evening to fish the exceptional hatches that come off at dusk. Even staying out for that late Caddis hatch, you will never miss dinner as meals are on your schedule; Five Rivers will be happy to serve your meal whenever you return from fishing.
Lodge Accommodations
The lodge itself is an exquisite and comfortable place with extensive amenities to return to after a day of fishing. Each guest suite has two king size beds, a private bath, beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and a door leading to decks and garden areas. The living room is a great place to enjoy Five Rivers Lodge’s extensive library of fly fishing and fly tying magazines, books and videos, tie flies at their completely stocked fly tying desk, a drink and hors d’oeuvres, or discuss the days fishing. There are many other gathering areas at the lodge where anglers can wait for dinner or just relax. Five Rivers also has a hot tub available—a favorite way for guests to relax and rejuvenate for the next day of trout fishing. Please note that the Lodge’s interior, including bedrooms, is a non-smoking environment.
Non-Fishing Activities
Five Rivers Lodge offers non-fishing guests a variety of experiences to choose from. They can relax in comfort and browse Five Rivers’ extensive library, reading their choice on the porch, overlooking the Beaverhead Valley or in the hot tub. Five Rivers can arrange activities like horseback riding, hikes, panning for gold, digging for garnets and crystals, or a gourmet picnic lunch on a day trip. There are also a number of attractions in the surrounding areas like the Ghost Towns of Bannack or Virginia City and Beaverhead Natural Forest. Both guided and self-guided tours offer fishing and non-fishing guests alike the opportunity to explore western history, gardening, photography, literature and the arts or take a literary tour of the area.
Five Rivers Lodge 2025 – 2026 Rates
Note: Rates below are from 2020. Please contact us for current 2025-2026 pricing and availability.
Package
Double Occupancy
3-Nights/2-Days Fishing
$2,095 per person
4-Nights/3-Days Fishing
$2,850 per person
5-Nights/4-Days Fishing
$3,595 per person
6-Nights/5-Days Fishing
$4,325 per person
7-Nights/6-Days Fishing
$4,895 per person
Rates are per person in US$ and subject to change
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Single Supplement: $125 per night for single occupancy accommodations & $275 per day for one angler per boat/guide.
Private water fees: $100 per angler, per day (subject to change).
Included & Not Included
Included: Guided fishing, accommodations, round-trip transfer from the Dillon Airport to the lodge, healthy gourmet meals, and laundry services.
Not Included: Airfare, gratuities, flies and tackle, liquor, other travel expenses, Montana fishing license.
Getting to Five Rivers Lodge
Guests are picked up in Bozeman, Montana and at Beaverhead County Airport in Dillon. Beaverhead County Airport, ten minutes from the lodge. The Dillon Airport’s runway is 6100 feet long. Before booking flights, please check with Angler Adventures. Five Rivers Lodge offers FREE shuttles from the Bozeman airport/lodge, round-trip, during daylight hours only. Both arrival and departure shuttles are scheduled for mid-morning.
Booking at Five Rivers Lodge is easy:
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
As its name implies, Five Rivers Lodge is in close proximity to the Beaverhead, the Big Hole, the Ruby, the Jefferson and the Madison Rivers, each famous for the large trout that call them home. Guests enjoy miles of wading access, floats on bigger water or spectacular horseback trips to fish the high mountain lakes and streams. There is also private water directly in front of the lodge for guests would like to get in some practice or some extra hours of fishing. Many Five Rivers’ guests have taken their personal best from this water.
In addition to the big name rivers, there are miles spring creeks and streams that offer a more intimate fishing experience. Both beginners and experts will enjoy fishing these waters, which receive little pressure. Each hold good numbers of trout with a variety of dispositions from picky to voracious trout that will explode on resembling a “hopper”.
Each section of the private water is rested (some sections are only fished once a week). The limited numbers of anglers and attention to fishing pressure insures privacy and a quality fishing experience. Five Rivers’ catch and release policy protects the wild, native trout. With access to a wide variety of private waters and blue ribbon trout streams, Five Rivers Lodge offers some of the finest fishing in the United States. All of this without the crowds usually associated with world-class fishing, except for the birds, waterfowl, wildlife and wildflowers that are abundant in this mountainous section of the Lewis & Clark Trail; so don’t forget your camera!
The guides at Five Rivers are experienced, hard working and excellent teachers. They all enjoy working with anglers at any level of experience or expertise. The guides also have a unique opportunity to guide during the winter months at Cinco Rios, the sister lodge to Five Rivers, in Southern Chile. These guides are willing to stay out well into the evening to fish the exceptional hatches that come off at dusk. Even staying out for that late Caddis hatch, you will never miss dinner as meals are on your schedule; Five Rivers will be happy to serve your meal whenever you return from fishing.
The lodge itself is an exquisite and comfortable place with extensive amenities to return to after a day of fishing. Each guest a suite has two king size beds, a private bath, beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and a door leading to decks and garden areas. The living room is a great place to enjoy Five Rivers Lodge’s extensive library of fly fishing and fly tying magazines, books and videos, tie flies at their completely stocked fly tying desk, a drink and hors d ‘ oeuvres, or discuss the days fishing. There are many other gathering areas at the lodge where anglers can wait for dinner or just relax. Five Rivers also has a hot tub available – a favorite way for guests to relax and rejuvenate for the next day of trout fishing. Please note that the Lodges interior, including bedrooms, is a non-smoking environment.
Five Rivers Lodge offers non-fishing guests a variety of experiences to choose from. They can relax in comfort and browse Five Rivers’ extensive library, reading their choice on the porch, overlooking the Beaverhead Valley or in the hot tub. Five Rivers can arrange activities like horseback riding, hikes, panning for gold, digging for garnets and
crystals, or a gourmet picnic lunch on a day trip. There are also a number of attractions in the surrounding areas like the Ghost Towns of Bannack or Virgina City and Beaverhead Natural Forest. Both guided and self-guided tours offer fishing and non-fishing guests alike the opportunity to explore western history, gardening, photography, literature and the arts or take a literary tour of the area.
Our Services are Free! Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
Five Rivers Lodge 2020 Rates
Double Occupancy
3-Nights/2-Days Fishing
$ 2,095 per person
4-Nights/3-Days Fishing
$ 2,850 per person
5-Nights/4-Days Fishing
$ 3,595 per person
6-Nights/5-Days Fishing
$ 4,325 per person
7-Nights/6-Days Fishing
$ 4,895 per person
Included: Guided fishing, accommodations, round-trip transfer from the Dillon Airport to the lodge, healthy gourmet meals, and laundry services.
Not Included: Airfare, gratuities, flies and tackle, liquor, other travel expenses, Montana fishing license.
Guests are picked up in Bozeman, Montana and at Beaverhead County Airport in Dillon. Beaverhead County Airport, ten minutes from the lodge. The Dillon Airport’s runway is 6100 feet long. Before booking flights, please check with Angler Adventures. Five Rivers Lodge offers FREE shuttles from the Bozeman airport/lodge, round-trip, during daylight hours only. Both arrival and departure shuttles are scheduled for mid-morning.
Single Suppliment: $125 per night for single occupancy accommodations & $275 per day for one angler per boat/guide.
Private water fees: $100 per angler, per day (subject to change).
Arroyo Claro Lodge is Jorge Graziosi’s flagship base in northern Patagonia–a hillside perch above the Carrileufu River where veteran guides stage bespoke trout programs that mix classic floats, stealthy spring-creek sessions, and cross-border adventures into Chile. The lodge team has refined this operation for decades, balancing serious fishing with warm hospitality, chef-driven cuisine, and the kind of storytelling that only comes from a lifetime spent on these rivers.
From the home beats on the Carrileufu to the jade waters of the Rio Rivadavia and remote multi-day expeditions on the Chubut, guests can tailor every week. Add horseback rides, national park hikes, and optional Chile road trips, and Arroyo Claro becomes as compelling for non-anglers as it is for serious trout hunters.
Resident browns & rainbows, seasonal landlocked salmon, plus optional king salmon in Chile
Cholila, Chubut Province — easy transfers from Bariloche or Esquel airports
This is a true owner-operated program. Jorge Graziosi and his veteran guides have fished Patagonia’s rivers since the 1960s, refining every float, walk-and-wade, and Chile extension they offer. Days start with custom pairings–maybe a morning sight-casting to sipping browns on the Carrileufu, an afternoon scouting the teal currents of the Rio Rivadavia, or a horseback shuttle to a spring creek that rarely sees pressure. Evenings bring story-filled cocktail hours, wood-fired asados, and the kind of hospitality that keeps guests returning year after year.
Signature Waters
Carrileufu River: Within walking distance of the lodge, this classic freestone features riffles, structure-rich banks, and a healthy mix of rainbows, browns, and seasonal landlocked salmon. Expect a blend of boat fishing and productive wade sessions, with excellent hopper and attractor action in midsummer.
Rio Rivadavia & Arrayanes: Crystal-clear, lake-fed systems ideal for technical dry-fly presentations, sight fishing with small terrestrials, and stealthy nymphing. Guides know every slot and foamy seam, and they’re quick with tips for long leaders, stealth and precise drifts.
Arroyo Pescado & Canal Spring Creeks: Limited-access beats with outsized fish. Think refined presentations, long casts, and big rewards for anglers who love intimate water.
Optional Chile Road Trip: Add a few nights across the border on the Palena or Futaleufu for brawling rainbows, browns, and even Pacific king salmon when the runs are in.
Chubut River Overnight Expedition
The lodge’s multi-day float down the Chubut is a Patagonia classic: a three-night, four-day drift through a 250,000-acre estancia where the river is the only road. Camps await each evening with wall tents, real beds, hearty Argentine meals, and Malbec under the southern stars. Days are spent throwing dries to pods of 12- to 22-inch rainbows and browns, with bigger fish lurking under shady cutbanks.
“Great dry fly fishing to feisty rainbows averaging 18 inches–Chernobyls, hoppers, caddis, you name it. Camps were dialed, meals were insane, and the guides hustled all day. Bring an appetite and be ready for sore arms.” – 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.’ Southern kingfishers, wild parakeets, cara caras, and Andean condors fly overhead while you stick fish after fish — many in the 7-9 lb range. Bring a warm layer for the afternoon winds and be ready for more trout than you can count.” – Rick B.
High, lake-moderated flows, aggressive fish, and cool mornings. Great time for streamer junkies and anyone hunting landlocked salmon in the Carrileufu.
January & February
Prime summer hopper fishing with long daylight windows. Expect stable water levels, reliable dry-fly action, and ideal weather for non-anglers.
March & April
Fall colors, low clear water for sight-fishing, and migratory browns and salmon pushing into the rivers. Cooler nights, crisp mornings, and fewer boats.
Beyond the Fishing
Horseback rides on the lodge’s 5,000-acre ranch
Excursions into Parque Nacional Los Alerces and boat trips on Lago Menendez
Visits to the historic Butch Cassidy cabin and Estancia Leleque museum
Local artisan markets in El Bolson and Welsh tea houses in the neighboring valley
Birding for condors, flamingos and an impressive list of Patagonian species
Arroyo Claro Lodge 2023-2024 Rates
Package
Details
Rate (USD)
7 nights / 6 days fishing
Double occupancy & shared guide
$4,550 per angler
7 nights / 6 days fishing
Single room & private guide
$5,700 per angler
Shorter or extended stays are available by request. Rates subject to change; confirm current pricing when you inquire.
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Tap a button to reach our Patagonia specialists. Our services are free.
Round-trip ground transfers from Bariloche or Esquel airports
Deluxe lodging at Arroyo Claro Lodge with daily housekeeping
Chef-prepared meals, daily cocktail hour, house wine, beer, and soft drinks
Guided fishing (two anglers per guide) by raft and vehicle access
Use of lodge horses, kayaks, and on-property recreational gear
Not Included
International airfare or in-country flights to Bariloche/Esquel
Fishing licenses, private water fees, and optional Chubut camping surcharge
Chilean lodging/liquor during road-trip extensions
Premium spirits, tackle rentals, flies, and laundry
Guide and staff gratuities, and any hotels or touring in Buenos Aires
“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.
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!
Large Rainbow and Brown Trout, landlocked salmon in some areas
Rivers: Rio Traful, Rio Chimehuin, Malleo, Rio Collon Cura, Filo Hua Hum River, Rio Quilquihue
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Argentina fly 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!
2025 – 2026 Fly Fishing Andes Rates
Per Night
7-nights/6 days
Tipiliuke
$1,400 per person
$9,800 per person
Arroyo Verde
$1,400 per person
$9,800 per person
San Huberto
$1,400 per person
$9,800 per person
Tres Rios
$1,400 per person
$9,800 per person
Limay River
$1,400 per person
$9,800 per person
Collon Cura
$1,400 per person
$9,800 per person
Filo Hua Hum
$1,400 per person
$9,800 per person
All rates are based on double occupancy accommodations and two anglers sharing a room and guide. Rates are subject to change.
Nestled in the heart of Montana’s picturesque Ruby Valley, Healing Waters Lodge offers an unparalleled fly-fishing experience combined with exceptional accommodations and gourmet dining. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and quick access to world-class rivers, this lodge is the perfect destination for anglers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Healing Waters Lodge sits on 20 acres with stunning views and a large trout pond. Guests can enjoy both float-fishing trips on larger rivers and wade fishing on spring creeks and meadow streams winding through private ranches in the Rocky Mountains.
Healing Waters Lodge provides an exceptional fly-fishing experience suitable for all skill levels. The lodge’s experienced guides offer deep knowledge of local waters, ensuring guests maximize their time on the water.
One of the premier offerings is the Smith River Expedition—a five-day, 60-mile float trip through a pristine canyon, offering anglers a chance to catch large rainbow and brown trout. This exclusive journey runs from early May through early July with limited availability.
Other renowned waters available for guided trips:
Beaverhead River – Large brown trout and technical fishing.
Big Hole River – Diverse fishing opportunities and stunning landscapes.
Jefferson River – A quieter river with quality trout fishing.
Madison River – Consistent fishing with prolific hatches.
Private water access is also available for a more secluded and personalized fishing experience.
Accommodations
The lodge offers clean, spacious, and private rooms, each uniquely decorated. Each room features:
Two queen-sized beds
Private bathrooms with walk-in showers
Porches or decks with scenic views
Wi-Fi & cellphone coverage
Large outdoor hot tub & exercise room
The main lodge includes a comfortable lounge, pool table, Direct TV, and a well-stocked kitchen.
Healing Waters Lodge 2025 Rates & Packages
Fishing Package Rates
Length of Stay
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing
$3,300
$3,900
4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing
$4,400
$5,200
5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing
$5,250
$6,250
6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing
$6,050
$7,250
7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing
$6,800
$8,200
Non-fishing Guests
$550/night
Rates are in US$ and subject to change
Book Your Montana Fly-Fishing Adventure
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
Fishing licenses; private water fishing fees ($150 per angler/day); airfare; airport shuttles; guide gratuities.
Booking at Healing Waters Lodge is easy
Embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure at Healing Waters Lodge, where pristine rivers, top-tier guides, and comfortable accommodations await. Contact us today to reserve your spot!
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
Nomads of the Seas is a new concept that revolves around Chilean Patagonia and a revolutionary approach to fly fishing. Nomads of the Seas has developed a new venture that promises unparalleled levels of personal and professional service in an area many call the world’s ultimate fly fishing and ecotourism destination.
Because of its isolation and the diversity of its terrain, Chilean Patagonia is one of the world’s best places for the kind of exploratory fishing and specialized eco-tourism Nomads of the Seas offers. The coast-to-land ratio is enormous, and the Cordillera generates a huge number of river and lake systems that are close to the ocean fjords. These bodies of water are largely inaccessible by conventional transportation and so have remained virginal and unexplored.
brown trout, rainbow trout
Professional guides and deluxe accomodations
Dry fly, streamer and nymph fishing for huge brown trout
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Chile fly fishing!
Overlooking no detail, Nomads of the Seas has designed one-week extreme fly fishing adventures and ecotourism expedition programs for a very limited amount of guests. All itineraries are based out of Atmosphere, a 150-foot mother ship specifically designed for exploring Chilean fjords in safety and extreme comfort. This ship accommodates a maximum of 18 fishing guests and 10 non-fishing guests for each trip. Atmosphere is also equipped with a Bell 407 helicopter and a fleet of jet boats, enabling anglers to penetrate the very deepest parts of the Patagonian wilderness over land, air and water. The mobility of Nomads of the Seas also allows for the flexibility required for successful fishing in an extremely variable climate.
The lakes provide rich vegetation and the ideal environment for insects, crustaceans, nymphs and small fish, creating ideal fishing conditions on the surface and on the bottom. A number of these big lakes have regulatory effects on rivers, transforming them into a calm and clear flowing habitat for fish. Nomads of the Seas calls its fishingprogram “extreme fly fishing,” which Nomads defines as “being able to fish at any spot, regardless of its accessibility, without having to stay in any specific place; with all the flexibility to deal with different weather and water conditions, and fluctuating fish behaviors . . . With the assistance of our guides and pilots you will encounter a fisherman’s dream: shallow and deep rivers, white waters, tight bends, creeks, lakes, lagoons, mountains, volcanoes, and many confined sites that are almost inaccessible without the proper training, equipment and experience.”
There is so much water and coast line and open space in this region that Nomads of the Seas has by no means stopped exploring. On virtually every expedition new water is covered, some of which has never been fished before.
Nomads of the Seas uses its helicopter and an extensive fleet, comprised of 6 fully equipped Jetboats, plus 2 SOLAS Rescue Boats, 4 Helitour Mission Zodiacs (equipped for air transport below the Bell 407), and one Huricane
920 RIB Zodiac to cover these untouched waters. The diversity of these vessels gives guests opportunities to fish for brown trout (sea-run and native), brook trout, rainbow trout, steelhead, chinook salmon and other species of land-locked salmon. One week fishing programs depart every Saturday from mid October through April.
Nomads of the Seas has designed special outings for non-fishing guests as well: sight seeing for a wide variety of dolphins and elusive giant whales in specialized rigid inflatable boats, bird watching, spotting and identifying native and endemic flora and fauna throughout the wilderness. Most will be overwhelmed by the diversity of life and the natural beauty Patagonia offers. Guests will also have access to a variety of on board activities such as daily wine tastings, gourmet regional cuisine, Thalasoterapy and spa relaxation, specialized lectures and more. Few other operations combine so many activities in a single adventure.
Adventure awaits you!
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
Nomads of the Seas describes its on board cuisine as “Chilean gourmet nouvelle.” It has been specially designed by Guillermo Rodriguez, one of the most famous chefs in all of Chile. His dishes focus on traditional Chilean flavors with an exciting, modern twist.
Atmosphere is also equipped with a full bar, stocked with top brands of liquor. The bar is open all day and the drinks are included in the package rate (there are certain exceptions to this rule).
The Mothership’s cabins have been built with extreme care, priorizing comfort and safety above all. You’ll also find the décor quite tasteful, so you won’t miss anything from home.
The cabins are specially designed to emphasise passenger privacy and comfort onboard. Great efforts have been made to provide guests with natural and tasteful interiors. The 14 guest cabins are equipped with either one queen or two twin beds as well as a private bath. All guest cabins are exterior. Guests will also enjoy first class service from the attentive, live-aboard crew.The coastal sector of Patagonia and its intermediate valleys have a cold temperate western- coastline climate with peak rainfall in the winter (U.S. summer). However, there is rainfall throughout the entire year. The temperatures are not extremely low due to the influence of the sea and the action of the winds, and the coldest months are rarely below 4º C/39° F. The thermal amplitudes are not very high, with the daily and yearly ranging from 5º to 7º C/41° F to 45° F. The atmospheric humidity has a mean annual value of 87% in the zone, and no month of the year has relative humidity of less than 80%.
Nomads has satellite telephones that have worldwide coverage. They work with prepaid cards, which can be purchased on board.
Inquire about 2025 Rates for Nomads of the Sea
Tap a button below to start the conversation. Our services are free.
2024 Season Rates are published for reference: (Rates are per person, for 8 days/7 nights, with all meals, open bar (less premium drinks), daily Program as per schedule, all activities on board, plus port transfer in Puerto Montt.
Heli-Ski Program: Sept – November by arrangement
Ultimate Flyfishing & Wildlife Adventures: Departures every Saturday, from early November to end of March
Charter & Incentive: Dates by arrangement
Accommodation Type
4 x Delux Queen/King Suites: From US$ 42,000/pp sharing (8 day/7 ni)
10 x Premium Twin Suites: From approx US$ 18,000/pp sharing (8 day/7 ni)
Heli-Ski and Charter & Incentive tariffs on request
Rates and conditions subject to change as published by Nomads of the Seas®
Salmon fishermen, steelheaders, or anyone keen to pursue “overstuffed, energized anadramous torpedoes” should head to Southern Argentina this winter. Angler Adventures represents Kau Tapen Lodge, Villa Maria Lodge and Aurelia Lodge, all located on the famous Rio Grande in Tierra del Fuego, where the sea run brown trout fishing gets better every year! Catch and release and repeat spawning have dramatically increased the numbers of returning sea trout that average 10.5 pounds, and range to well over 30!
brown trout, rainbow trout, steelhead trout
Professional guides and deluxe accomodations
Ecotourism possibilities and more in Tierra del Fuego
Book now, get a quote, or chat with us about Chile & Argentina fly fishing!
Nervous Waters is an Argentine Company owned and operated by Fernando & Jorge de las Carerras. The Carerras family opened the first fishing lodge on the Rio Grande, and Nervous Waters now operate 2 of the best lodges on the river system. Nervous Waters currently owns and operates 8 lodges around the globe including Pira Lodge and Suinda Lodge (Dorado fishing) in Corrientes Province, Bairs Lodge and Abaco Lodge (Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon) in the Bahamas and others in Chile and Argentia. The Nervous Waters properties rank among the very finest fishing lodges in the world.
Kau Tapen first opened in 1986 and is the lodge that got sea run trout fishing going on the Rio Grande. Today, it’s repeat client rate is one of the highest in the industry. It is considered one of the finest lodges in the world of fishing. You must pay a premium to stay at Kau Tapen, but it is worth it, if you call early enough to get space.
Villa Maria Lodge opened in 1996 on the historic Estancia Jose Menedez and offers 16 km of water on the lower Rio Grande downstream from Kau Tapen. This is bigger water, perfect for the Spey rod enthuisiast and offers first crack at dime bright searun browns fresh from the salt.
Another excellent option on the Rio Grande is the beautiful Aurelia Lodge, situated just above Kau Tapen on Estancia Rosita. Owned by Ricardo Hermoso and managed by veteran Rio Grande guide, Peter Pereira Mullins, Aurelia offers an impressive 8 miles of double bank fishing on the Rio Grande plus15 miles on the Rio Menendez for just 8 rods. The recently refurbished lodge offers superb accommodations combining classic Patagonian ambience with modern comfort.
Tierra del Fuego can be combined with the outstanding trout fishing offered by our outfitters in Patagonia, Argentina or dorado fishing in Corrientes.
It’s a lot to take in. We know!
Let us help you find the perfect destination and travel package. Our services are free. We just help you save time and make all the arrangements!
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 Kamchatka Peninsula is a vast area comprised of 104,000 square mile of largely unpopulated, pristine wilderness. The peninsula protrudes 750 miles southward from Russia’s northeast coast, between the Sea of Okhotsk to the west and the Behring Sea and Pacific to the east and south.
Situated just south of Siberia and the Arctic Circle, Kamchatka is roughly the same latitude as British Columbia and has similar climate. The total population of the peninsula is only 400,000, of which 200,000 are concentrated in the city of Petropavalovsk.
Kamchatka characterized by dense coniferous forests, with snow-capped peaks to 15,000 feet, smoldering, active volcanoes and thousands of miles of pristine, unpolluted rivers.
The rivers of Kamchatka host anadramous runs of 6 species of Pacific salmon, arctic char, kunja (an eastern Eurasian char, a.k.a. kundzha), as well as both sea run and resident strains of some of the largest, wild rainbow trout in the world.
Ouzel Expeditions is owned and operated by Paul & Sharon Allred, Ouzel Expeditions has been outfitting quality float trip expeditions in Alaska since 1978, and were the very first pioneers to explore and begin outfitting on the Kamchatka Peninsula in 1991. In a destination that’s seen many outfitters come and go in it’s brief history, Ouzel’s longevity in Kamchatka is a testament both to the soundness of their operation and their commitment to providing float trip adventures of the highest quality.
Ouzel is a small operation accommodating groups of usually only 6 – 8 anglers. Their typical ratio of staff to anglers is 6 to 8. Each trip is hosted by either Paul or one of his veteran American guides, a team of experienced Russian guides, all of whom have worked with Ouzel the past 13 years, a translator, and camp kitchen staff.
Guests begin their float trip with a helicopter ride from the city of Petropavalovsk to the headwaters of the selected river. Paul’s 26 years experience outfitting in the sub-arctic has taught him that weather conditions rule the north, and sudden heavy rains can quickly blow out the selected river. Thus, Ouzel offers the invaluable flexibility of having permits to float numerous rivers on the peninsula, allowing them to make last minute changes of venue to ensure their clients get the very best conditions and best fishing possible.
Upon arrival at the river, the float begins, typically covering approximately 10 miles per day. Guests float in 16 – 18 foot Sotar inflatable rafts, usually 2 anglers and one guide per raft. You’ll stop and fish at known or likely hotspots along the way.
Most of the fishing is by wading or from shore. You’ll stop for a full hot lunch at midday. The guides have pre-selected camp sites, close to good fishing areas, and guests are free to fish nearby while the staff set up camp in the late afternoon.
Kamchatka’s main attraction for the traveling angler is the remarkable rainbow trout fishery. The rainbows of most of the river systems are described as “coastal rainbows”. These are summer run steelhead that only spend a brief time in saltwater. They are available in the river systems from June through the fall months.
In most rivers, coastal bows will average 24 inches in length and are taken over 30 inches. Upon returning to the rivers, these coastal rainbows feed as resident fish would and take a variety of subsurface streamers and “buggers”, but will also slash a deerhair mouse pattern, and rise freely to mayfly and caddis hatches which occur from June until late in September. Rainbows as large as 27 inches have been taken on dry flies as small as size #22!
These are the 4 rivers Ouzel most frequently fishes. Again, the choice of river is dependent on conditions, and Ouzelmay make last minute changes to put you onto the best conditions and fishing.
The Zhupanova River has extraordinary scenery, big rocky mountains, beautiful canyons and the huge, Zupanovski volcano. The river is medium sized to big, mostly in one channel and has lots of side streams to fish. It has huge runs of arctic char, some of the peninsula’s largest rainbows, lots of large kunja and strong runs of chum and silver salmon.
The Kapushka River is wide and shallow. It has gravel and boulders its entire length providing easy wading. Some Ouzel guests have waded down most of the river without even riding in the rafts. Gentle rolling mountains flank the river’s sides with distant volcanoes on the horizon. There are very few char and kunja, which mayexplain the numbers of rainbows. On average, Kapushka bows are an inch or two smaller, but there are perhaps twice as many as there are in the Zhupanova. Ouzel guests have taken rainbows up to 30 inches on this river. There’s a small June run of kings, good chum run and a strong silver run in late September.
The Medved River has interesting attractions along the way: huge volcanoes, boiling warm springs and gas springs. The river is small at the top and gets medium sized near it’s end. It has a lot of islands, is fairly braided & great for wade fishing. It has lots of large rainbows (many 30-inchers caught), a few char, a good king run in June, and a small silver run in late-August.
The Kartuska River may have more rainbow trout per mile than any river in Kamchatka. Ouzel first floated this little treasure in 2000 and quickly added it to their repertoire. This trip begins deep in the mountains floating through a tight valley with huge mountains then finally out onto the coastal plane. Along it’s course the river pretty much stays in one piece, not much braiding. The Kartuska is shallow with great wading. The rainbows are plentiful, averaging 20 inches up to 28 inches. There are very few char or kunja, and strong runs of very large kings in late June and silvers mid-August through September.
Trips originate in Anchorage and run Friday to Friday. You’ll depart Anchorage on Mavial / Magadan Airlines at 6:40 am, Friday. You cross the International Date Line and arrive in Petropavalovsk at 8:40 am, Saturday. After clearing customs, you’ll be transferred to the helicopter landing pad for your flight to the river to begin the float Saturday afternoon.
You’ll reach your take out point on Thursday afternoon where you’ll be transferred by helicopter back to Petropavalovsk.
You’ll overnight at a hotel in town this evening. Friday during the day, you’ll be given a tour of the city and have opportunities for shopping. You’ll depart Kamchatka at 10:00 pm Friday, cross the dateline again just after midnight, and arrive in Anchorage early Friday morning.
Our Services are Free!
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
For current availability and pricing, please call Doug Schlink at Angler Adventures.
Included: Visa support & processing, interpreters, and licenses, all transportation in Kamchatka & helicopter flights. On the river, Sotar rafts, waterproof gear bags and camera bags, a large kitchen tent, North Face sleeping tents, sleeping bags, pads, and pillows are provided.
Each trip is staffed by Russian guides, cooks, a Russian interpreter and one American guide.
Not included: airfare to and overnight in Anchorage; international airfare to Russia (approx. $1,700 pp round trip, Anchorage / Petropavlovsk Kamchatka); meals and hotel costs in Petropavlovsk ($150 per person per night); personal gear; personal liquor supply; gratuities; fishing tackle and flies. (All rates are subject to change)
If you would like to make a reservation or have any questions, please contact:
Angler Adventures
(800) 628-1447
(860) 434-9624
Fax (860) 434-8605
email info@angleradventures.com.
Dave and Christine Decker’s Complete Fly Fisher is one of Montana’s finest fishing lodges and is ideally situated directly on the legendary Big Hole River.
CFF specializes in dry fly fishing, which is best when the water levels drop sometime after the fourth of July.
The record fish at the Complete Fly Fisher is a 30-inch, 8-pound brown trout taken on a dry fly. That fish was the exception, but fish over three pounds are landed every year.
The Big Hole, Wise and Beaverhead Rivers were traditionally the Complete Fly Fishers main area of expertise. However, in recent years the lodge has expanded its repertorie of waters to include Rock Creek, the Ruby, Red Rock, Bitterroot, Clarks Fork, Jefferson, Madison, Missouri and Yellowsone Rivers, as well as Spring Creek Fishing. The Big Hole remains a main staple of the lodge’s angling diet.
CFF has selectively guided anglers down Rock Creek for many seasons. Several years ago, through new partnerships with the U.S. and Lolo Forests Services, CFF has obtained the necessary permits to make this special creek available to all of its clients. For steady action and scenery, many anglers feel that Rock Creek is unequaled.
CFF has also obtained permission from the U.S. Forest Serivice to maintain a seasonal camp along the banks of Rock Creek, allowing guests to overnight in this wild and beautiful river corridor. Guests will enjoy comfortable accommodations and fresh cuisine
excellently prepared by Complete Fly Fisher staff. This wilderness adventure should be booked well in advance of your trip.
Throughout Montana and the American west, the Jefferson River is known for its trout of immense size and unyielding character. The harsh environmental conditions of the Jefferson and natural selection have left only the strongest and most aggressive survivors. These fish are opportunistic feeders, attacking high-protien whitefish, sculpins and crayfish. Complete Fly Fisher’s biggest and strongest trout are routinely pulled from the Jefferson.
The Big Hole has over 100 miles of fishable water. While there is very good fishing near the lodge, most guests choose to float the river, stopping to wade the productive pools. The scenery is magnificent as you drift through cattle ranches and canyons. It is one of the very few western rivers that, in addition to brown, rainbow, and brook trout, holds cutthroat trout and grayling.
In addition to the Big Hole and it’s tributary, the Wise River (pictured below), is also a freestone river. Big boulders and willowed banks make for great pocket water fishing.
The Complete Fly Fisher is an ideal place for couples, families, or groups composed of expert and novice fly fishermen. Experts will be challenged by the Big Hole’s browns. Novices will return from a week’s outing with a feeling of accomplishment, having been taught casting skills by competent instructors. The CFF staff teaches people to fish while they’re fishing.
There is a tackle shop that carries Sage, Loomis, and Winston rods and accessories. Even if you arrive without a rod or reel, the CFF will outfit you with their brand name equipment, a service, which is included in the cost. To help you decide on when to schedule your angling adventure, a month-by-month description follows:
JUNE: From around June 10th, the giant Salmon flies begin to emerge in the Lower Big Hole River. This emergence steadily moves upstream until early July. Huge dry flies and nymphs that imitate the naturals will bring the big boys out. As large trout protect prime feeding stations, streamer patterns can bring thrilling strikes. High, fast water makes this a truly exciting time to be on the Big Hole River.
JULY: Golden stone and tremendous Caddis fly hatches replace the Salmon flies. As water drops and clears, comfortable wading is now possible and trout will spread out making for more diversified angling. July offers steady fishing from about dawn til dusk; and we do fish until dark! Weather can be particularly nice during July, with dry flies and sunshine the daily fare.
AUGUST: The hoppers are out! Caddis and small Mayflies are hatching early and late in the day. Excellent streamer fishing can be yours, along with the fish of a lifetime. Terrestrials are abundant and trout are looking for them. Flat-water angling is available for the spring creek devotee; small flies, picky fish, great challenge and usually superb weather!
SEPTEMBER: Fall is beautiful on the Big Hole and can generate some spectacular angling. Brown trout moving to spawn are very aggressive and smash big streamers. Steady dry-fly fishing and the season’s lowest water bring anglers from all over the world to fish the Big Hole. While floating is still effective, wading can be tremendous sport and is recommended. Weather can range from hot and dry, to cool and wet, so come prepared for everything.
At the Complete Fly Fisher a maximum of 14 guests are accommodated in six spacious cottages and a master suite located in the main lodge.
The Complete Fly Fisher has traditionally been known for its excellence in the dining room as well. They take great pride in finding the most creative and enthusiastic chefs to prepare culinary adventures to accompany the world class fishing. Typically each week’s menu is tailored to meet guests’ preferences and pallet.
EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES TO BRING
Rods: DRY FLY and NYMPH: 8’ to 9’ for #4 to #6 lines.
STREAMERS: 8½ to 9½ for #6 to #8 lines.
Lines: All dry lines, weight-forward or double-taper.
Clothing: Fly fishing garb such as vests, waders, boots and the like are quite handy, but not absolutely necessary. We have at our disposal many items that you may need in this regard. Please inquire ahead. A good set of rainwear is essential because weather can range from hot and dry, to cold and wet. We highly recommend a hat with sun visor, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent.
In case you forget something, any or all of these items are available from Complete Fly Fisher’s well-stocked Fly Shop at fair prices. If you have any equipment questions, please contact us.
NOTE: For those of you who do not have rods or reels, etc., Complete Fly Fisher has top quality equipment available for guests use at no additional charge.
Our Services are Free!
Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing
The 2020 rate for 6 nights, 5 days fishing at the CFF is $4,800 per person.
This rate includes: transfers to and from the Butte Airport and the lodge; expert casting instruction (as good or better than any fly fishing school); double occupancy accommodations in a cabin; all meals, including daily packed lunch and beverages; flies; unlimited use of brand name equipment from the Complete Fly Fisher’s well stocked tackle shop; fishing license; expertly guided float trips; bed tax.
This rate does not include: Gratuities for guide and staff; participation in other lodge activities such as horseback riding, guided hiking or nature tours. These activities will be billed a la carte for payment at the end of your stay.
Depending upon availability, anglers may extend a stay beyond 6 nights/5 days. Trips can be extended at a cost of $960 per day (subject to change). This rate also applies for stays of less than 6 nights.
A 50% deposit per person is necessary to secure a reservation. The balance is payable upon departure from the Complete Fly Fisher in cash, travelers checks or by personal check.
We also represent guides throughout Montana and can design individual itineraries should you want to extend your trip. The Complete Fly Fisher is in great demand, so it is a good idea to plan well ahead.
(From L to R) Jefferson River, Bitteroot River and Beaverhead River
Owen River Lodge has quickly become one of New Zealand’s top trout fishing lodges in terms of fishing and luxury accommodations since it open in November 2003. Owen River Lodge is located on New Zealand’s South Island, near Murchison, in the Nelson Lakes area. The location of the lodge was strategically chosen to allow guests to fish more than 30 of the South Island’s top trout rivers and streams in the Nelson and West Coast fisheries, generally without needing to drive for more than a hour. The trout fishing water is varied from small intimate rivers like the Owen River to iconic freestone rivers such as the Wairau. In addition to the trout water accessible by road, Owen River Lodge offers access to countless numbers of remote rivers and mountain streams, which are accessible only by Helicopter.
Trout fishing on New Zealand’s South Island is primarily done by sight fishing and is well known as a trophy brown trout fishery. The average trout size an angler can expect at Owen River Lodge ranges from 3lb to 6lb and each season guests land browns in the 10 lb class. In most of the rivers Owen River Lodge guest fish, anglers must spot, stalk, and present a fly to these large trout before the trout sees the angler. Owen River Lodge has assembled a world-class guiding roster to assist both experienced and novice fly fishers catch large brown trout in gin-clear water.
Owen River Lodge is comprised of the main lodge building and 6 individual luxurious guest cottages on a beautiful 16-acres. The grounds are filled with organic herb and vegetable gardens, almost a mile of river frontage on the Owen River, and sensational views of the Owen River Valley, Mount Owen & the
Kahurangi National Park. The main lodge contains the dining room, the lounge and sitting rooms, the lodge shop, fly tying area and the bar. The lodge is equipped with a TV/Video Player and DVD player as well as a Notebook PC for you to check e-mails etc. The Internet connection is over a WiFi wireless network with satellite delivered broadband.
A maximum of 12 guests per week are accommodated in 6 separate luxuriously appointed cottages, located in the gardens, just a short distance from the main lodge building. Owner/Manager Felix Borenstein selected the garden location and built the cabins to ensure the highest levels of privacy for guests of Owen River Lodge. Each guest cabin has comfortable king-sized beds, reverse cycle air conditioning, an electronic safe, ironing facilities, alarm clock, complimentary stocked mini bar, tea & coffee making facilities and en suite bathrooms stocked with oversized towels, bathrobes, a hairdryer and, of course, shower gels, body lotion, shampoo and conditioner. Each cottage features original Australasian artwork and 100-year-old recycled Oregon beams and woodwork. The spacious interior utilizes high cathedral style ceilings and large windows to emphasize light and space. Each cottage features a large veranda, which is a great place to relax after a day of trout fishing or just relax and enjoy the view of the river, the valley and the mountains with the sounds of the Owen River passing by.
Non-Fishing Guests
Owen River Lodge is first and foremost a fly fishing destination, however, there is also an endless supply of “non fishing” activities to do around the lodge, the local area and the greater Nelson / Marlborough region. Fishing guests at Owen River Lodge can rest assured that their non-fishing partners will have a sensational time. Non-fishing activities range from relaxing in the 4-person
Jacuzzi or massage to local hikes, horseback or mountain bike rides, or tours of New Zealand’s farms, vineyards or a trip to Nelson.
Our Services are Free!
Owen River Lodge 2020 – 2021 Rates
Package Rates
Per Person, Double Occupancy, Shared Twin
Spring
Oct. 1 – Dec. 6, 2020
Summer
Dec. 7 – Mar. 21, 2021
Fall
Mar. 21 – Apr. 30, 2021
4 Night / 3 Day Guided Fishing
$4,045 NZD
$5,205 NZD
$4,045 NZD
5 Night / 4 Day Guided Fishing
$5,165 NZD
$6,615 NZD
$5,165 NZD
6 Night / 5 Day Guided Fishing
$6,282 NZD
$8,020 NZD
$6,282 NZD
7 Night / 6 Day Guided Fishing
$7,400 NZD
$9,430 NZD
$7,400 NZD
Please Note: All rates are subject to change without notice. The rates are also subject to current exchange rate. Pricing for individual nights accommodations and fishing days is available upon request.
Package Rates Include: All meals; accommodations in a cottage suite; daily guided fishing; non-alcoholic beverages; use of all lodge facilities (including the use of fly fishing equipment, waders, boots, mountain bikes etc); Transportation to fishing (excluding helifishing); GST.
Package Rates do not Include: International airfare; Transfers to the Owen River Lodge (Cost to/from Nelson Airport); New Zealand fishing license; alcoholic beverages; gratuities; purchases from the Lodge Shop; Helifishing; Personal Items.
Due to New Zealand’s strict policy regarding the banning of felt soled wading boots, Owen River Lodge includes use of the lodges’ stock of Simms Guide Gore-Tex waders (men’s and woman’s sizes), Simms Guide wading boots (sizes 5 – 14), and Simms Gore-Tex wading jackets at no additional cost. Owen River Lodge is also happy to provide anglers with any of the fishing gear you may need. In addition to waders, boots, and jackets, the lodge has Sage rods, Sage reels and Waterworks-Lamson reels available to guests at no additional charge. Since supplies and sizes are limited, guests who are planning to use Owen River’s equipment should make a request for the sizes or tackle desired to ensure that it will be available.
Riverview Lodge is located on the South Island of New Zealand in the heart of trophy brown country. The lodge is conveniently located within leisurely driving distance of Nelson, Christchurch, and Kaikora and offers both fishing and non-fishing activities.
Riverview Lodge is situated on a plateau overlooking the beautiful Hanmer Springs valley of the Spencer mountains, the Waiau, Hanmer and Percival Rivers, and beautiful rural farmland. Born and raised “Kiwi’s” John and Robin Gemmell have owned and operated Riverview Lodge for over 25 years. After your first visit to the lodge it won’t take long before you feel like part of the family, staying in luxurious accommodations with unbelievable Panoramic views.
Riverview offers 5 guest bedrooms, with either King or Queen beds and modern private bathrooms. There are large lounge areas, a stone log fire, pool room, satelite Sky TV, laundry facilities, and a computer with Wi Fi for your use. Owners, Robin & John, have a private cottage on site, so they’re never far away.
The lodge offers predominantly brown trout fishing with experienced guides who have fished this areaa over a lifetime. In the off-season duck and game hunting are also offered.
John Gemmell and his guiding staff have guided clients to some of the largest Brown Trout In New Zealand. The average size is 5 to 6 pounds, however most every season a 10 pound plus fish is caught, every angler’s dream.
Clear mountain waters offer the opportunity to see the brown trout before it sees you. Brown trout immediately seek cover if they see movement on the riverbank. Your guide goes ahead, stalks the fish, then points it out to you. With additional instructions, the challenge is for you to outsmart the fish. Being one of the most difficult freshwater fish to catch, the satisfaction of hooking and landing a New Zealand Brown Trout is a rewarding experience.
Non-Fishing Activities
Hanmer Springs Alpine Spa Village is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist destinations. There are a number of non-fishing activities available around Hamner Springs. Soak in a one of Hamner Springs’ famous thermal spa pools, private Sauna and Spa treatments, wine tastings at local vineyards, whale watching, seal photography, golf, forest walks, horse treks, jet boat rides, rafting, and bungy jumping (for the more adventurous). With Christchurch less than 2-hours drive, a day trip to visit the Arts & Crafts Centre, Art Gallery is possible, as well as the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train to Greymouth.
Our Services are Free!
Riverview Lodge 2017 – 2018 Rates
(All rates are subject to change)
Shoulder Season
Effective Spring: November 1 – December 14, 2017 & Autumn: March 15 – 31, 2018
Nights/Days
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
4/3
$3,245 pp NZD
$5,030 pp NZD
5/4
$4,150 pp NZD
$6,475 pp NZD
6/5
$5,055 pp NZD
$7,920 pp NZD
7/6
$5,960 pp NZD
$9,365 pp NZD
Peak Season
Effective Summer: December 15, 2017 – March 14, 2018
Nights/Days
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
4/3
$3,625 pp NZD
$5,150 pp NZD
5/4
$4,625 pp NZD
$6,625 pp NZD
6/5
$5,625 pp NZD
$8,100 pp NZD
7/6
$6,625 pp NZD
$9,575 pp NZD
Included: Accommodations at River Lodge with a private bath; Guided fishing with an experienced local guide; All meals; All land concessions; Pre-dinner house wine and beer; GST tax.
Not Included: Fishing license; Staff and Guide Gratuities; Beverages; Phone calls; excursion activities.
Poronui’s tradition is to keep the best things very quiet, and so the lodge has only seven exclusive guest cabins. Designed with luxury, comfort and angler’s needs in mind, the modern wooden cabins sit only a stone’s throw from the water’s edge and offer guests comfort and relaxation in a magnificent landscape setting.
Poronui has evolved from what was once only a very basic, remote fishing camp. Today it is one of the world’s finest fishing holiday destinations and host to the most discerning international anglers and visitors.
From the main lodge itself, you can watch the Taharua flow through the valley and have a great view of the evening hatch. A huge log fire, the finest books and company to inspire you, and the comfort of a big chair and glass of New Zealand’s finest wine is a typically relaxing Poronui evening. The lodge is equipped with a modern drying room and laundry facilities. A well equipped fly tying bench and library of books and journals will fill your mind with possibilities and keep you entertained. There are also excellent storage facilities for rods and all other equipment.
The lodge is famed for its hearty gourmet food and wonderful cellar of fine New Zealand wines. It is here that you will find a roast dinner like no other. You may also discover that a picnic lunch, on the river’s edge, in the middle of nowhere, is the best meal you’ve ever had.
The Taupo region provides lamb, venison and wild duck while its proximity to the ocean also provides an abundance of fresh deep sea fish, salmon and mussels.
As Poronui is close to New Zealand’s largest grape growing region, the wine cellar features an extensive selection of local vintages.
Fishing at Poronui
Avid Fly Fisherman from all corners of the globe come to Poronui to test their skills against New Zealand’s notoriously large, and wily, brown and rainbow trout. They do it in an isolated and beautiful wilderness.
Every angler with a story to tell has an opinion as to where to find the best trout on the planet. Today, many of these stories refer to the trout of New Zealand. Poronui has a reputation for offering the country’s best wilderness fly fishing. Guests will discover secluded streams, home to incredibly large resident browns and rainbows, with angling opportunities to suit every preference or ability. Expect to fish new water everyday, no matter how long you stay at Poronui.
The property has almost 25 miles of private water. The Taharua, a spring creek meanders down the valley, while the Mohaka River, a tumbling freestone stream wraps itself around one boundary. The mountains adjacent to Poronui are vast estates of Maori owned land. Poronui is privileged to have access to much of this wonderful wilderness reserve. Without a doubt, the exclusivity and remoteness of these rivers and streams make them some of the most prized fly fishing waters in the world.
Poronui has a team of permanent full-time guides who are considered the consummate professionals in their field. They share an extraordinary knowledge of the country and collectively have more than a hundred years of fishing experience on New Zealand waters. Poronui guides know every stream intimately and work to ensure angling pressure is constantly monitored and controlled to maintain the health and confidence of the trout.
Poronui accesses it’s world class trout fishing available within walking distance of the lodge, with short drives in a 4WD vehicle, and with helicopters to all access the remote rivers and mountain streams. There’s a good deal of fishing at Poronui with easy access, good shallow wading, gentle riffles and pristine pools and there are some more challenging rivers within a short drive from the main lodge. There also some remote rivers that require floating to access the best fishing and can be combined with an overnight camp-out for adventures guests. Poronui’s 2 helicopters add nearby rivers (like the Legendary Ngaruroro and Rangitikei River in the next valley) and countless remote mountain streams to the menu of world-class trout fishing for anglers to choose from and adds options when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Not to mention that the helicopter flights are some the best way to enjoy the New Zealand countryside.
There are fishing opportunities for anglers looking for the classic fly fishing experience of stalking and sight casting to trophy browns and rainbows in shallow, clear water or reaching remote fishing areas with some of the most legendary and challenging fly fishing in the country. There are also easier fishing rivers where beginner anglers can cast to resident wild fish that have rarely seen a dry fly or floating a big dry fly through riffles, inducing dramatic takes.
Non-Fishing Activities
There are a number of activities available for non-anglers at Poronui. There a variety of hose back riding options and more than 100 miles of private road and trails for hiking, sightseeing/cultural tours and food / wilderness experiences are some of the most popular. As is relaxing at the lodge, enjoying a book, a glass of local wine, and the view. An example of the tours would be visiting the neighboring Tuwharetoa tribal land. Master teachers are on hand to give a first hand look of the ways of the wilderness or enjoy the experience of hangi feast, prepared using traditional Maori gathering techniques and cooking for you to enjoy, while sharing in knowledge and stories told by your passionate guide.
There’s also hunting at Poronui on 16,000 acres of wilderness that offers for a premier quality hunting experience. The lodge, Safari Camp down by the Mohaka River or the Blake House, (the owners home) are perfect for hunting groups who appreciate fine dining, wines, and beauty that sets Poronui apart from other hunting and fishing experiences.
Fishing Seasons at Poronui
Spring (October)
The opening of the fishing season in most districts means the local trout have been undisturbed for months. Temperatures are still cool, but with longer days, the brown trout become very active and there is excellent fishing with weighted nymphs and dry flies along soft seams in most mountain streams. Some good evening hatches offering very good dry fly fishing later in the day.
Early Summer (November, December)
Undoubtedly the best time to fly fish in mountain streams. Long, warm days and the water is still cool. There are good mayfly hatches and the trout feed recklessly on the surface throughout the day. The fish are not wary and generally very aggressive to the dry fly. This is the least crowded time to fly fish in New Zealand and the weather is very settled around Christmas.
Mid Summer (January, February)
Traditionally the most popular time for fly fishermen to visit New Zealand. Most good lodges are pre booked. Streams are often low and wading is easy. Trout are highly visible but selective. On small streams these conditions demand careful stalking and delicate presentations with small nymphs and dries. On larger freestone rivers in the mountains (accessed by helicopter and float trips) there are some excellent terrestrial activities on the surface.
Late Summer (March, April) & Fall (May)
The weather is still warm and settled. April has the lowest rainfall of any month. The cooler evenings induce good hatches and mountain streams are fishing well for browns on dries. Trout are in peak condition, so this is a good time for trophy fish. This is the ideal time for salmon fishing. Outdoor activities season in New Zealand. There is excellent fly fishing with nymphs in the tributary streams of Lake Taupo for the first runs of spawning rainbows.
Our Services are Free!
Poronui, New Zealand
Rates for the 2020 – 2021 Season
(All rates are subject to change)
Poronui Daily Guiding Fishing Rates
Two anglers sharing a guide
NZ$462.50 per person, per day
Single angler
NZ$925 per day
Included: all equipment, full day of guided fishing including the evening rise; steam-side lunch.
Not Included: Fishing licenses; alcoholic beverages; transfers.
Poronui Overnight Accommodations
Season
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
March 22, 2018 – December 6, 2018
NZ$ 675 per day, per person
NZ$ 895 per day
December 7, 2018 – March 21, 2019
NZ$ 995 per day, per person
NZ$1,310 per day
March 22, 2019 – December 6, 2019
NZ$ 690 per day, per person
NZ$ 915 per day
Overnight accommodations rate includes laundry facilities, all meals, non-alcoholic beverages and house beer & wine.
Package Specials – March 22, 2019 – December 6, 2020
Package
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
3 Days / 4 Nights
NZ$3,818 per person
NZ$5,997 per person
6 Days / 7 Nights
NZ$6,555 per person
NZ$10,574 per person
Package Specials – December 7, 2020 – March 21, 2021
Package
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
3 Days / 4 Nights
NZ$5,368 per person
NZ$9,740 per person
6 Days / 7 Nights
NZ$8,015 per person
NZ$14,720 per person
Package Specials – March 22, 2021 – December 6, 2021
Package
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy
3 Days / 4 Nights
NZ$3,872 per person
NZ$6,069 per person
6 Days / 7 Nights
NZ$6,639 per person
NZ$10,314 per person
Included: all equipment, full day of guided fishing including the evening rise, accommodations,all meals, pre-dinner drinks, house beer & wine and same day personal laundry service.
Not Included: Fishing licenses; alcoholic beverages; transfers.
Please call or email Angler Adventures if you have any questions or would like to book Poronui, New Zealand.
Fjordland Lodge is a very special lodge tucked away on the road to Milford Sound. Built on an elevated terrace of log construction, it was the dream of long time New Zealand residents Ron and Robynne Peacock. With commanding views of Lake Te Anau, and the southern Alps, the setting is rural with rolling grasslands surrounding the lodge. Fjordland offfers the opportunity to relax, after that magnificent fly fishing experience or Milford Trek experience, in the big leather chairs while the staff brings you refreshments and you ponder the activities for your next day of adventure.
Lake Te Anau is a ten minute walk from Fjordland Lodge. Across the lake to the west lie the majestic mountains of Fjordland National Park, an area of over three million acres of untouched wilderness, which is part of the much larger South West New Zealand World Heritage area. Te Anau is the gatewy to Milford and Doubtful Sounds and the Kepler and Murchison mountains. Fjordland Lodge owns and operates Fjordland Guides that offers trekking and hikes, birdwatching excurstions, and of course most important of all Fishing trips. The Fjordland region is world renowned for it’s fly fishing, in particular rainbow and brown trout in the well stocked local rivers and streams.
Fjordland’s Ron Peacock is no stranger to the outdoors, having been a National Park Ranger with the Department of Conservation for twenty-five years and a nature guide and fishing guide for the last ten years. His knowledge of this area is world reknown and unsurpassed. He will fill you in on it’s history, flora, fauna, myths and legends. Ron is a professional fishing guide and Fjordland has access to 40 rivers and streams all within one and half hours travel to the lodge. Fishing packages are a big part of the many features offered at Fjordland Lodge. All fishing is catch and release, a policy strictly adhered to in order to conserve the fishery.
Fjordland has some of the finest and most unique fly fishing rivers in New Zealand. There are over 40 rivers and streams within 1 hour 30 minutes of Fjordland Lodge.
The Eglington River
The Eglinton is one of New Zealand’s premier fly-fishing rivers. The impressive amount of easily accessable water available within this magnificent setting makes this one of Fjordland’s highest-ranking rivers. The river varies in character throughout its length to Lake Te Anau. Of a generally loosely meandering nature, it is also confined in places by gorges and ancient tributary fans. Bed material varies from quite loose gravels to boulders and solid bedrock.
The Eglinton is dominated by brown trout, although the more active rainbow plays a major role in the river’s tremendous fishery.
The clarity of the Eglinton’s water is very high, so the angler needs to be extremely careful. Polaroid glasses are essential.
The Oreti River
The Oreti River flows out of the Eyre Mountains wilderness area and is famous for its large brown trout, which are fewer in number, but can weigh over 10lbs. The Oreti is a river where local knowledge and the expertise of your guide is essential. The upper reaches are very strictly regulated with foot access only and helicopters are strictly forbidden to fly over or land.
Aparima River
The Aparima River rises in the Takitimu Mountains. Initially it flows east but changes to a southerly flow over farmland south of Mossburn, after it is joined by Hamilton Burn and Braxton Burn. Fish feed in the edge of fast water and at the base of ripples. The middle of the day is best for fly fishing and the river has a good number of brown trout of 1-2kg in size, with the occasional fish up to 4.5 kg.
Mataura River
The Mataura is the second largest river in the region. It begins south of Lake Wakatipu, travels south-east to Gore, then turns south again before emptying into Toestoes Bay at Fortrose, near Invercargill. Regarded by many as New Zealand’s top dry fly water, the Mataura is a premier fishery offering over 150kms of fishable water.
Upukerora River
The Upukerora is a small attractive stream that flows over a gravel and stone bed and is an important spawning river for Lake Te Anau . In the lower reaches it holds mostly rainbow trout with a lower number of brown trout in the upper reaches. Despite its proximity to Te Anau town with its easy access, it is a relatively un-fished water that can provide several kilometres of wonderful fly water for those who enjoy the challenge of fishing small streams.
Hamilton Burn
Hamilton Burn rises in the Takitimu Hills and flows south east to join the Aparima south of Mossburn. The Hamilton is mostly slow flowing waters between banks lined with willow and broom. Fish tend to cruise the pools looking for food or to station themsleves along the foam feedlines.
Mararoa River
The Mararoa River is a fast flowing medium-sized river that has a very good stock of brown and rainbow trout. It has several distincly different types of water along its length, so if offers something for all anglers and skill levels. A very attractive medium sized water to fish.
Milford Sound is today frequently referred to as the “Eighth Natural Wonder of the World” and is by far the best known of all of the fjords and the only one that can be accessed by road. Daily from Fjordland Lodge guided trips into Milford Sound depart and this is a very popular option for your Milford experience. Explore spectacular alpine scenery along the Milford road, then once at Milford Sound board Real Journey’s new and modern small- vessel “MV Sinbad”. Passenger numbers are strictly limited to ensure a high quality personalised experience, and attentive service. Comfortable coaches with unrestricted views from every seat. Enjoy an informative commentary and numerous photographic stops as you drive on one of the world’s most impressive alpine scenic roads.
Milford Sound Scenic Flight
Departs from the lodge helipad and follow the shores of Lake Te Anau to make the first landing at Mt Skelmorlie. This is a picturesque area that looks down on the famous Milford Track and Clinton Valley. Airborne again we overfly the remote Wick Mountains and rugged landscape such as Lake Iceburg, so called because it grows Iceburgs! Views of Mitre Peak and Milford Sound unfold as we circuit the fjord to follow the Milford Track, flying over the McKinnon Pass before landing at the Sutherland Falls. The rugged beauty of the Fjordland National Park will unfold before your eyes as you enjoy this helicopter trip with Southern Lakes Helicopters. Returning to Te Anau is a descent back to reality.
Doubtful Sound
Wilderness Cruise’s also operate daily. Sometimes called ‘the Sound of Silence’, for this trip you cruise across beautiful Lake Manapouri, take a scenic coach trip across the Wilmot Pass, and then cruise 2½ hours on Doubtful Sound. New Zealand Fur Seals and Fjordland Crested Penguins can be seen on many of the small islets at the entrance of the fjord. Doubtful Sound is a massive wilderness area of rugged peaks, rainforest and twisting, hidden fjords.
Our Services are Free!
Fjordland Lodge 2017 – 2018 Rates
(All rates are subject to change)
Rates are based on 2 anglers sharing a room and guide daily
November 2017 – March 2018 (High Season)
NZD $4,780 or NZD $2,390 per person
Sept. & October 2017 (Shoulder Season)
NZD $4,340 or NZD $2,170 per person
Included: 3 nights accommodations at Fjordland Lodge, 2 days guided fishing with an experienced local guide, all meals, any fishing tackle required, GST tax.
Not Included: Fishing license, staff and guide gratuities, beverages, phone calls, excursion activities.
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.
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 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.
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.
During the past decade, Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula has emerged as the premier destination for anglers in search of trophy rainbows and Pacific salmonids.
It is frequently described as, “the way Alaska was 30 years ago”. While rivers such as the Zhupanova have been highly promoted and have received the most press, these have also received the most fishing pressure, in some cases from multiple outfitters.
But fortunately, there are many other fantastic fisheries on this 100,000 + square mile land mass, and many of these receive very little pressure.
Ouzel Expeditions was the first American company to explore Kamchatka and the first American outfitter to bring US clients to Kamchatka in 1991.Owned and operated by Paul & Sharon Allred, Ouzel Expeditions has been outfitting quality float trip expeditions in Alaska since 1978.
With an emphasis on personal attention, Ouzel typically takes groups of only 6 to 8 anglers, and carries a staff including an American host/head guide, veteran Russian guides, a translator, and a kitchen staff of two.
Ouzel has rights to fish numerous rivers on Kamchatka, including the Zhupanova. But, it is on lesser known rivers, where they are the sole outfitters, that Ouzel’s guests are assured they’ll be the only anglers on the entire river.
The Rivers
Case in point, Angler Adventures’ client Alan McRae recently returned with his party from a float trip on the Kapushka, one of the several fine rivers on which Ouzel holds the exclusive fishing rights. The Kapushka is quite comparable to the Zhupanova in terms of size of fish, but may produce slightly better numbers. Rainbows up to 31 inches have been taken by Ouzel guests on the Kapushka. Alan reported no fish reaching the magic 30 inch mark, but said most of his rainbows fell in the 24 – 28 inch range. Alan concentrated mainly on rainbows, and reported averaging 6 – 12 big bows each day. He described these as beautifully full-bodied, well-conditioned fish, “incredibly big”! Alan took most of his bows on top with dry flies and mouse patterns. The rest of the group enjoyed the diversity, as the Kapushka was enjoying an incredible run of pink salmon and hard fighting arctic char, along with the world-class rainbow fishing.
Alan commented that the food, the comfort and amenities of the tent camps, and the professionalism, affability and responsiveness of head guide, Todd Hiibner and his entire staff, far exceeded their expectations. He added that his group has traveled and fished extensively for the past 20 + years, and their consensus was that this was the best trip they’d ever taken!
Besides the Kapushka, Ouzel is the sole outfitter on the Medved and the Kartuska Rivers. The Medved is another producer of 30-inch bows, while the Kartuska rainbows run between 20 – 28 inches, but are more numerous than on either the Kapushka or Medved. Along with the Zhupanova and several other lesser-known rivers, they have a greater variety than most outfitters from which to choose.
They generally rotate rivers, scheduling a week on the Medved, followed by a week on the Kapushka (which also helps keep fishing pressure down on each). But another huge advantage over other outfitters is Ouzel’s flexibility to make last minute changes. Should the river you are scheduled to fish “go out” with heavy rains, Ouzel will switch to another river. This is not an option with other Kamchatka outfitters – you book a week on a certain river, and if she goes out, that’s just the luck of the draw.
The Cost
Ouzel plans to operate 10-weeks of float trips for parties of 6 to 8 anglers in 2005. The 2005 rate for the above itinerary is $4,100 + $150 visa processing = $4,250 US per person. Included in this cost are: Visa support & processing, interpreters, and licenses, all transportation in Russia, helicopter flights, buses, ground transportation, & city tours. On the river, Sotar rafts, waterproof gear bags and camera bags, a large kitchen tent, North Face sleeping tents, sleeping bags, pads, and pillows are provided.
Each trip is staffed by Russian guides, cooks, a Russian interpreter and one American guide.
Not included are: airfare to and overnight in Anchorage; airfare on Mavial / Magadan Airlines, Anchorage to Petropavalovsk (estimated at $1,375 round trip for 2005); meals and hotel costs in Petropavalovsk ($150 per person per night); gratuities; fishing tackle and flies.
Rebookings with Ouzel Outfitters usually runs at above 70%, so available space is limited. If you would like to inquire about space or receive information on the 2005 program, please contact Angler Adventures:
Jorge Graziosi was the guest speaker at a luncheon held September 9th, 2009 at the Anglers’ Club of New York, 101 Broad Street. Other invited guests included three representatives of Angler Adventures; owner Chip Bates, Travel Manager Judy Hall, and Webmaster Evan Peterson.
Jorge Graziosi has been guiding in Patagonia, Argentina since 1968. In 1999 he built and opened Arroyo Claro Lodge, located in the beautiful Carrileufu River Valley, a 3-hour drive south of Bariloche and 3-hours from the Chilean border. Jorge may be the only outfitter offering guests the opportunity to fish both Argentina and Chile. Arroyo Claro Lodge will host an Anglers’ Club outing January 23-30, 2010. Arrangements for the Anglers’ Club Argentina trip are being handled by Angler Adventures. Click here for more information on Arroyo Claro Lodge or contact Chip Bates at Angler Adventures: (800) 628-1447 or Chip@angleradventures.com.
We hope you enjoy Jorge Graziosi’s slide show presentation to the Anglers’ Club, below. If you would like the slide show to auto-play, please click on the menu in the lower left hand corner and select auto-play. Click here to read Angler Adventures September 2009 Newsletter.
Fly Fishing in Chile is known for big brown trout taking big surface flies. This is especially true in the Coyhaique area of Southern Patagonia. Typically anglers thinking about Chile imagine the splashy rises of trout taking 2” – 3” imitations of Cantaria Beetle, the largest beetle in Chile. This season offers something new, potentially a once in a lifetime opportunity. The Quila Bamboo in the Paloma River Valley is seeding – an event that happens about every 15 years (estimated to take 60 years for the bloom to return to the same area). This “bloom” creates an explosion in the mouse population due to the abundance of food (Quila Seeds). This acute rise in rodent populations is a well-known phenomenon in South America, which has been scientifically documented since 1552.
Cinco Rios Chile is already exploiting the situation and catching large browns on mouse imitations, however owner Sebastian Galilea expects the fishing to peak in late February / early March when the rodent population is at its peak and the supply of Quila seeds has declined. Anyone who has fished the Arolik for Rainbows or Labrador for Brookies can testify to the voracious strikes on mice when skated over fish from an opposing bank or overhanging branch. The Paloma River, the Magote, the Rio Simpson, the Boca de Leon, and the Elizadle all have visible increases in the rodent populations and are proving productive when fished with a mouse imitation.
Cinco Rios – $3,675 US per person based on double occupancy & two anglers per guide
January 1 – 15 – 4 anglers
January 15 – 22 – 2 anglers
January 22 – 29 – 6 anglers
January 29 – February 19 – 2 anglers
February 26 – March 5 – 6 anglers
Paloma River Lodge – $3,250.00 US per person based on double occupancy & two anglers per guide
January 1 – February 12 – 8 anglers
February 12 – March 12 – 4 anglers
Cantaria Beetle of Southern Chile
Estancia del Zorro – $3,675 US per person based on double occupancy & two anglers per guide
While Cinco Rios’ sister lodge may not get to experience the boom in mice, the estancia is home to the famously productive Zorro spring creek. These are the last spots available for the 2010 – 2011 season:
It’s common knowledge among traveling anglers that January and February are the most popular time to visit New Zealand. Mostly to escape the winter in the Northern Hemisphere. Judy Hall is our expert on New Zealand and she loves traveling to New Zealand in “the spring”.
Personally, I love New Zealand in the late spring, which in the Southern Hemisphere is mid- November and early-December. Here are the top five reasons I love to visit New Zealand in the spring.
The fishing for both Brown and Rainbow Trout can be outstanding. The trout are hungry and unpressured and more than willing to take a well presented fly.
The weather is mild, average temperatures are in the 70’s, making stalking trout along New Zealand’s clear rivers very comfortable.
Sight nymphing with Stoneflies and the beginning of New Zealand mayfly hatches.
It’s not out of your price range! Spring fishing rates and great airfares in Air New Zealand’s new luxurious cabins (http://insidestory.airnztravelagent.com//) make a fishing trip to New Zealand an affordable option.
The culture: Trips to New Zealand are about more than just trout fishing. Late spring offers the highest density of non-fishing activities and events around the cities that really showcase New Zealand.
Getting excited? You should call (800-628-1447) or email (Judy@angleradventures.com) Judy Hall to discuss the possibility of your trip to New Zealand.
One of Judy's many Spring time New Zealand Brown Trout