Tag: salmon

  • Futa Lodge

    Futa Lodge

    Updated on

    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!

    Destination Inquiry

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    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.

    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 StayShared room and boatSingle 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.

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    Included in Rate

    • Accommodations
    • All meals and beverages (open bar)
    • Professional guided fishing
    • Loaner fishing equipment (rods, reels, and lines)
    • Transfers from Chaiten or Esquel
    • Fishing license

    Not Included

    • Airfares
    • 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).  
  • Tierra Del Fuego

    Tierra Del Fuego

    Updated on

    Fly Fishing the Rio Grande

    Salmon fishermen, steelheaders, or anyone keen to pursue “overstuffed, energized anadramous torpedoes” should head to Southern Argentina this winter. Angler Adventures represents Kau Tapen LodgeVilla 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!

    Destination Inquiry

    or

    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.

    Fly Fishing at Kau Tapen

    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.

    Fly Fishing at Villa Maria Lodge

    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.

    Fly Fishing at Aurelia Lodge

    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!

  • Yan Kee Way Lodge

    Yan Kee Way sits on the banks of Lago Llanquihue the southern most lake in Chile’s famous Lake District. The lodge and its 320 square mile lake look up the foothills of the Andes and are in the center of the best fishing in Southern Chile. The lodge is located just a one hour drive north and east of Puerto Montt (known as the “Gateway to Chilean Patagonia”), near the little town of Ensenada. The lodge is nestled within a small 12-acre forest on the lake’s edge, in the shadow of Volcano Osorno.

    Yan Kee Way Lodge is located in the middle of one of the most prolific fisheries in all of Chile. The rivers and lakes surrounding the lodge are home to resident Brown and Rainbow Trout as well as a large population of Atlantic, Coho, and King salmon that don’t head out to sea. Each year, migratory Sea Run Brown Trout, Steelhead, Atlantic salmon, King salmon, and Coho salmon pass though the river systems on their way to distant spawning grounds. The resident salmon population is well established in Lago Llanquihue, that Yan Kee Way is allowed to open their fishing season for all trout and salmon species in September – 2 months prior to Chile’s country-wide opening the season in November.

    Yan Kee Way’s primary river, the Rio Petrohue, is known for its big, clear, cool water and big Chilean trout. The Rio Petrohue is only minutes from the lodge and is best fished out of the boat with sinking lines and streamers, however there are sections of prime water to be waded. The main river does offer some dry fly fishing opportunities, the dozen’s of tributaries are more easily waded and have more prolific hatches. Anglers can choose from main waters of Lago Llanquihue and Rio Petrohue or from the smaller rivers like Maullin, Cayatue, El Salto, San Antonio, Cobre, Sin Nombre, Coiheco rivers as well some more remote, spring creek type water. Yan Kee Way uses a variety of different watercraft, so the right boat, for each water type, because there isn’t one boat that can do it all. This gives anglers at Yan Kee Way an advantage and the ability to locate fish no matter what the weather or the conditions.

    The lodge is unique in Chile. The compound was carefully constructed over a five-year period, with great attention to detail. The main lodge building has exposed, sandblasted post and beam throughout, which highlights beautiful local woods, black lava encrustations and old-world style craftsmanship. Yan Kee Way’s accommodations are comprised of private chalets, bungalows, hotel style rooms, and suites. The 1,400 square foot chalets and bungalows are designed to accommodate groups of various sizes. Each building was carefully designed and constructed from the beautiful local woods, in a style that reflects the Southern Chile’s architecture but still incorporated modern features, like central heating.

    Yan Kee Way also features Latitude 42º Restaurant. The restaurant has been consistently recognized as the best dining in Patagonia and was given the title of best restaurant outside of Santiago for the whole of Chile. Latitude 42º offers excellent international cuisine, a wine cellar with over 350 distinct labels from 30 Chilean vineyards, and a talented master Sommelier who is an expert at matching the perfect wine with your meals. Yan Kee Way and Latitude 42º Restaurant also provide the extraordinary service expected to accompany the gourmet meals and fine wine.

    The artwork and furniture add to the Chilean ambiance at Yan Kee Way. Most of the furnishings were custom designed and crafted in Chile and Argentina. There are numerous pieces of original art on the grounds, created by Chilean artists, like the 6-foot long Stonefly nymph sculptor in front of the restaurant. The most prolific of which is the beautifully sculpted, 350 year old Coihue Tree. The tree began to die and loose it’s limbs in 1998. Yan Kee Way decided to preserve the tree and hired Arnaldo Diez, a well know Chilean sculptor, to transform the tree into a work of art. The tree currently stands with 120 distinct, wonderfully colored carvings, depicting the “Legend of Osorno Volcano.”

    The artwork and furniture add to the Chilean ambiance at Yan Kee Way. Most of the furnishings were custom designed and crafted in Chile and Argentina. There are numerous pieces of original art on the grounds, created by Chilean artists, like the 6-foot long Stonefly nymph sculptor in front of the restaurant. The most prolific of which is the beautifully sculpted, 350 year

    old Coihue Tree. The tree began to die and loose it’s limbs in 1998. Yan Kee Way decided to preserve the tree and hired Arnaldo Diez, a well know Chilean sculptor, to transform the tree into a work of art. The tree currently stands with 120 distinct, wonderfully colored carvings, depicting the “Legend of Osorno Volcano.”

    Yan Kee Way is the perfect place for groups, families and couples to come and relax, enjoy great fishing and/or indulge in a variety of outdoor activities. In addition to fishing packages, Yan Kee Way also offers a number of guided outdoor activities, from light to extreme, for the non-angler from photography or cultural tours to canopy tours on a zip-line to shopping. There is also satellite television and access to telephone, fax, and the Internet. Guests can enjoy excellent stargazing and usually gain a new appreciation of the night sky – there are an incredible number of celestial objects, not to mention two galaxies and the Southern Cross, which are not visible from much of the Northern Hemisphere.

    Yan Kee Way is perfect for a week-long fishing trip or as a family vacation, where you can get a few days of fantastic fishing in. Yan Kee Way is also a great place to add a day or two to the beginning or end of another fishing trip to Chile because it is so close to world-class trout fishing and is an easy drive to the Puerto Montt airport.

  • Yan Kee Way Lodge Rates

    Our Services are Free!
    Contact us for Seasonal Discounts, Special Offers or Promotional Pricing

    Yan Kee Lodge

    Fly-Fishing & Sport-Adventure Packages

    Please call or email Angler Adventures for the current packages at Yan Kee Way, or to set up a custom itinerary.  

    The number of days of the expedition is flexible and will be arranged to accommodate your itinerary.  A minimum of two nights at Yan Kee Way Lodge is required for the all-inclusive expeditions. To assure your activities are available when you arrive, your activities must be selected and scheduled prior to your arrival.