Brown and rainbow in crystal-clear water: when the season opens, which flies to bring and the must-fish rivers.
The fly-fishing paradise
The Patagonian Andes are a world reference for trout fly fishing. Crystal-clear water, mountain scenery and brown and rainbow trout in Andean rivers and lakes.
Season
The open season usually runs from November to April (it varies each year by provincial ruling). The Patagonian inland fishing licence covers several provinces, which makes it easy to move between rivers.
Must-fish rivers
The Chimehuín, born in Lake Huechulafquen, is living fly-fishing history. The Limay offers wading and float trips in clear water, and the Aluminé runs turquoise among araucaria trees. Further south, lakes like Cardiel hold trophy trout.
Gear
- A 5-to-7 rod for rivers, 6 to 8 if there is wind or big fish.
- A floating line for dry and nymph; intermediate for lakes.
- 4X to 6X tippet depending on the water.
- A box with dries (caddis, mayflies), bead-head nymphs and a streamer or two for the big browns.
Reading the river
Work the flats, the pool tails and the currents that carry food. On the dry, a delicate presentation and a drag-free drift; on the nymph, control depth with weight or leader length.
Release
Catch-and-release keeps these rivers healthy: wet your hands, use a soft-knotless net and release quickly.
