Patagonia encompasses the region in South America split between the southern portions of Chile and Argentina. Within its borders lies one of the most dramatic mountain ranges on Earth, the southern Andes. There, high peaks, volcanoes, and valleys abound. To the east and west of Patagonia, the Atlantic and Pacific coasts lie with countless lakes and rivers in between the two vast oceans. Patagonia is rich in flora and fauna making the region very popular with those interested in a wide array of sporting opportunities. The Fly Fishing Patagonia experience is very popular because some of the best trout fishing in the world takes place in this prolific area, which is composed by some of the best rivers and lakes where trout habit. 

Steppes, large plateaus, and forests await you during your journey through this long and diverse geographical region. Beyond these breathtaking landscapes, you have plenty of opportunities for sporting activities, including fly fishing which has brought generations of anglers to the region’s riverbanks and lakeshores. A fly fishing trip in Patagonia is highly recommended for passionate and adventurous anglers that want to go deep into one of the most remote parts of the world and encounter catches worthy of writing books about. 

Sea-run brown trout fishing is wildly popular in Southern Patagonia, most precisely in the Rio Grande, Tierra del Fuego, and the fish found in its waters reach outstanding proportions, often beating world records. This makes Patagonia’s Rio Grande River, one of the most popular destinations for those seeking trout of epic proportions.

Pixabay

Where to Fish in Patagonia

Throughout Patagonia, you cannot travel very far without reaching a productive stretch of river or still waters rich with fly fishing opportunities. Regardless of whether you’re fishing on the eastern or western slope of the mountains, you will encounter trout and other native species eager to take a fly. 

In the region’s lakes, fishing from boats is by far the most fruitful and creates a quiet and relaxing fishing experience. The Patagonian lakes are surrounded by incredible vistas, proof that the old idiom that trout don’t live in ugly places is nearly always true. Many of Patagonia’s lakes and rivers are protected within National Parks, preserving the natural beauty of the region and limiting fishing pressure by regulating the various angling companies that show clients from around the world the natural beauty of Patagonia.

Fly Fishing in Patagonia

In Argentina, you can explore the northern reaches of Patagonia with a fly rod in hand. One area in particular, the one surrounding Bariloche, is where you will be able to encounter wild rainbow, brown, and brook trout in abundance, in the many streams and lakes. In Nahuel Huapi Lake, you will be thrilled to catch all of these species along with native species found on no other continent. 

Two very notable rivers to dive into during the search for trout are the Collón Curá and Chimehuín, in Junín de Los Andes and its surrounding region. Throughout history, many affluent and dedicated anglers have traveled here each season to experience these waters and try their hand at catching the trout found therein. Both of these rivers are well known because they were two of the first rivers in Patagonia stocked with trout and are considered the birthplaces of Patagonian fly fishing.

In the southern reaches of Patagonia, where Argentina’s most southern territories lie, you will find Tierra del Fuego. There lays the mighty Río Grande and its famous sea trout, waiting for anglers brave enough to take on the challenge of fooling the river’s famous inhabitants. 

Plenty of the Best Fly Fishing in Patagonia can also be found across the border in Chile. In the Futaleufú River and in lakes like Lonconao and Espolón, you will encounter plenty of wild rainbow and brown trout waiting for you and your fly rods.

One Final Tip for Your Patagonian Fly Fishing Trip

Some of Patagonia’s most productive waters are found on private land and are managed by local landowners and estancias; there are also plenty of rivers or lakes located in National Parks. Considering both of these facts, hiring a guide or staying at a lodge that has exclusive access to fish on those properties is highly recommended to make the most of your time in Patagonia.

By Lorie