Season: December mid-april Fish Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout, coho and king salmon Lodge Capacity: 6 anglers Rate: $3,950 per person for a 7 night/6 day package Full Details: See www. flywatertravel.com Drifting through the heart of Chile s most productive trout waters. Photo: Rex Bryngelson LA POSADA DE LOS FARIOS, CHILE Rex Bryngelson is one of those early pioneers who came to Chile in search of whitewater and adventure and ended up finding incomparable rivers, a sense of place, true love and his life s work. The end result is La Posada de los Farios (The Inn of the Brown Trout), located on the banks of the Rio Cisnes, three hours north of Coyhaique. Here in the heart of Chile s greatest trout fishing region, the options are nearly endless productive floats at the farmhouse s front door, fishing hidden lagunas, spring creek tributaries, and seldom fished, The ultimate in homestyle Chilean hospitality and quality fishing high country lakes and excursions into the coastal fjords for Pacifi c salmon and super charged, semianadromous rainbows. With the beautiful Queulat National Park just to the north, non-anglers can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, river rafting, bird watching, excursions into nearby wilderness areas, or cultural visits to neighboring farms and villages. For a taste of the trout fishing that has made Chile famous and a glimpse of what has kept Rex so enthralled for all these years, La Posada de los Farios is the place. PAGE 26 WWW.FLYWATERTRAVEL.COM
Anglers working a productive run on the Rio Rosselot. Photo: Frans Jansen CHILEAN PATAGONIA Martín Pescador NEW With two tasteful lodges providing access to twelve different rivers and eight different lakes, Martín Pescador offers fly fishers the unique opportunity to experience two of Chilean Patagonia s most dramatic fly fishing regions. Frans Jansen and his highly skilled crew of western guides have developed the most varied and strategic fly fishing program in the Patagonia region. Utilizing jet boats, catarafts, jet cats, rafts and row boats, anglers will never see the same piece of water unless requested. Sight fishing to massive, surface feeding rainbow trout, streamer fishing for big brown trout or wade fishing small systems are all close at hand. Week long visitors to Martín Pescador enjoy stays split between the stunning lakefront vistas of both Puerto Cardenas Lodge and La Junta Lodge, while those staying longer can visit the entirely different region of Patagonia surrounding Lago Verde Lodge. After fishing anglers enjoy very tasteful accommodations and fabulous gourmet meals prepared by acclaimed chef Anna Jansen. With a stunning variety of landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, birdlife and temperate forests, Martín Pescador is a wonderful place to catch the trout of a lifetime or simply sit back and enjoy some of the best lodging, food and service that Patagonia has to offer. Rate: $5,100 per person for a 7 night/6 day package Chucao Lodge NEW When Gonzalo Cortés, author of Fly Fishing in Chilean Patagonia, set his sights on building the fly fishing lodge of his dreams, it quickly became clear that one location in Patagonia would not suffice. His solution was simple. He hand built two lodges, Yelcho and Rosselot, enabling his guests to split their fishing week and take in all that this remarkable region has to offer. Both of Chucao s lodges are strategically located near the mouth of the Yelcho and Rosselot rivers and offer anglers a taste of the real Chile, complete with, native wood construction, wood fire cook stoves and hot tubs, stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, and spectacular fishing. Under the watchful eye of skilled Chilean guides, guests will float and fish the turquoise flows of several remarkable dry fly fisheries as well as enjoy the option to fish for brown trout and rainbow trout in small walk and wade streams and trophy stillwaters. Mid-week anglers will transfer between lodges and begin the process of discovery all over again. For those who want variety, exceptional scenery, dry fly fishing, and a chance at some very large trout, we feel that this is an authentic Chilean experience that is hard to beat. Rate: $3,990 per person for a 7 night/6 day package 1-800-552-2729 PAGE 27
Season: December April Fish Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout, brook trout, sea-run brown trout Lodge Capacity: 6 anglers Rate: $3,000 per person for a 7 night/6 day package Full Details: See www. flywatertravel.com TDF Lodge specializes in the remote resident trout fisheries of Chilean Tierra del Fuego. Photo: Rachel Andras TIERRA DEL FUEGO LODGE, CHILE As the first to bring Alaskan-style pilot guiding to Chile with Heart of the Andes Lodge, Mark Kniprath is unquestionably one of the deans of modern angling exploration. Mark has logged literally thousands of hours guiding some of the world s greatest trout waters. When he told us of his latest venture targeting largely resident trout in the remote reaches of Chilean Tierra del Fuego, frankly we were skeptical. But then again we knew Mark and that he is uniquely qualified to discern between good and great trout fishing. When we visited him in 2008, any reservations we had were laid to rest and we again marveled at Mark s judgment and pioneering spirit. Tierra del Fuego Lodge is located 40 minutes from the well known upper Rio Grande in a relatively wind protected region that sees very few anglers. His Walk and wade fishing for large resident trout in remote Chilean Tierra del Fuego angling options are vast and varied with access to sea-run fish in several low key locations, as well countless venues for resident browns that average 18 inches. Small walk and wade streams, beaver ponds with well rested lunkers, and several amazing lakes with big cruising browns are all part of this unique Chilean experience. Additionally, adventuresome anglers have the option of overnight trips to Fagnano Lake and the Azopardo River to stalk big brookies, browns, rainbows, and sea-run browns. Tierra del Fuego Lodge features three separate cabins with queen size beds, living rooms, woodstoves and private baths. Though these fisheries are remote and well rested, Tierra del Fuego Lodge is best suited to intermediate and advanced anglers who enjoy covering moderate distances on foot. PAGE 28 WWW.FLYWATERTRAVEL.COM
NEW Nomads Bell 407 departs the 150 foot Atmosphere for the day s fishing. Photo: Pablo E. Negri NOMADS OF THE SEAS, CHILE Very rarely are we presented with an experience so unique that we have difficulty describing it. At the core of the Nomads of the Seas unique Patagonia program is a 150 foot state of the art mothership, the Atmosphere, built exclusively to explore the boundless wilderness of southern Chile s largely unexplored fjords. Equipped with a Bell 407 helicopter, and six custom jet boats, the Atmosphere s mission is to experience the fly fishing bounty and ecological wonders of Chile s most remote Patagonia reaches by air, land and sea. With 32 crew members dedicated to serving 18 anglers and 10 non-anglers, the Nomads of the Seas program provides the highest level of service and employs the latest and safest technology to The last word in luxury, live-aboard fly fishing and eco-touring in the remote and stunning fjords of southern Chile 1-800-552-2729 access Patagonia regions that have rarely if ever seen a human, let alone a guided angler. And while the term extreme fly fishing has been used liberally in the past, Nomads of the Seas is here to deliver exactly that. Designed with luxury in mind guests on the Atmosphere enjoy world class cuisine, daily wine tasting, complete spa service and double occupancy cabins with exterior views and private baths. While fly fishing is a major focus, soft wildlife adventures include hiking, whale watching, birding and nature photography and are all approached with the same eye for quality. Be among the first to experience the virgin coastline of Chile in a fly fishing and wildlife adventure that promises to be in a class by itself. Season: December early April Fish Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout Lodge Capacity: 18 anglers, 10 non-anglers Rate: $17,850 per person for 7 night/6 day fishing package Full Details: See www. flywatertravel.com PAGE 29
Gary Farnham works the fabled waters of the Rio Traful. Photo: Bill Morrish
SAN MARTÍN REGION, ARGENTINA Founded in 1898, the picturesque town of San Martín de los Andes is perhaps the epicenter of Argentina s finest wild trout fishing. Surrounded by the Andes and Lanín National Park, the area is an outdoor enthusiast s paradise, and the ultimate hub from which to experience a classic Argentine trout fishing adventure. We have relationships with a variety of lodges in the region and find custom, multi-destination itineraries to be the preferred method of experiencing all that this region has to offer. SPRING CREEK LODGE Located on the banks of Argentina s renowned Chimehuin River, Spring Creek Lodge boasts a combination of world-class fishing and tasteful accommodations, making it a favorite for anglers visiting the area. Centrally located within the heart of the region s most diverse and productive trout waters, the lodge offers anglers the ability to float or wade-fish the pristine, lightly traveled flows of the Chimehuin, Malleo, Alumine, Collon Cura, Calleufu, Quilquihue and Quemquemtru. From their two bedroom bungalows, guests at Spring Creek Lodge enjoy the lovely pond and private, spring creek, all against the backdrop of the nearby Lanín volcano. With thoughtfully prepared meals accompanied by fine Argentine wines, this destination represents a value and overall experience that we highly recommend. Rate: $3,150 per person for a 7 night/6 day package THE CLASSIC ESTANCIAS Fly Water Travel specializes in customized itineraries that incorporate stays of varying lengths at the finest and most historic lodges in the country. Renowned for their locations, physical facilities, service, fine dining and unique angling opportunities, these estancias are a favorite for anglers and non-anglers alike. Some of our favorites include: Estancia San Huberto: This classic 25,000 acre estancia offers access to over twenty miles of the gorgeous Rio Malleo. This intimate freestone river boasts some of the most frequent hatches in Patagonia and is a must see destination for discerning anglers. Estancia Tipiliuke: This brawling 50,000 acre estancia is a rustic classic that offers access to twenty miles of the Chimehuin and six miles of the Quilquihue. Fall stag hunts also available. Estancia Collon Cura: Float fish the famous willow lined river on Ted Turner s private estancia. A simple but comfortable Argentine classic. Estancia Arroyo Verde: Overlooking the famous Rio Traful, the elegant Arroyo Verde has often been referred to as the finest fishing lodge in the world. Rate: $4,080 per person for a 6 night/6 day package 1-800-552-2729 PAGE 31
The Esquel region is the heart of southern Patagonia s best trout fishing waters. Photo: Esquel Outfitters
ESQUEL REGION, ARGENTINA The greater Esquel region offers anglers and non-anglers alike the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of watersheds and activities that have made the area famous. We recommend planning your trip between December and March for the best weather and fishing. ESQUEL OUTFITTERS More than a single lodge on a solitary stream, Esquel Outfitters is a network of skilled Argentine guides and tasteful accommodations that span the entire Chubut province. Whether you are interested in the Los Alerces region, the Esquel region, or the Rio Pico/Corcovado region, Esquel Outfitters has the expertise and connections needed to make your trip to Patagonia a most memorable and productive fishing experience. With five distinct accommodations, eleven river systems, three spring creeks, five lakes, overnight camping trips, and more than eighty miles of private river access, Esquel Outfitters has an endless array of options from which to construct your ultimate angling itinerary. All trips use English-speaking, Argentine guides with a minimum of twelve years guiding, ensuring not only great fishing but a true Argentine experience from start to finish. While trips of any length are welcome, itineraries of ten days or more enable anglers to comfortably visit and fish all three of these remarkable regions. For those who want to enjoy some of the world s finest wild trout fishing and at the same time indulge in a real Argentine adventure, this is the ultimate venue. Rate: $3,850 per person for a 7 night/6 day package CHALLHUAQUEN LODGE NEW In the local Mapuche Indian language Challhuaquen translates to the fishing place. Located in the Trevelin valley in Argentinean Patagonia, Challhuaquen Lodge overlooks the Futaleufú River on the edge of Los Alerces National Park. Here fly fishers enjoy a combination of floating and wading on rivers and spring creeks such as the Futaleufú, Corintos, Rivadavia, Arrayanes, Nant-Y-Fall spring creek, Desaguadero, and Corcovado Rivers. In addition, anglers have the opportunity to fish the legendary private spring creeks of Estancia Arroyo Pescado for large, selective trout. But in fact, Challhuaquen Lodge is far more than a simple fishing place. With arguably the finest meals and accommodations in the area, Challhuaquen is our top pick for couples and families visiting this special region. Non-anglers can enjoy the many wonders of Los Alerces National Park, including birding, hiking, horseback riding, visits to waterfalls, and local Mapuche Indian reservations. With train rides on the Patagonia Express, a fine local museum and an outstanding Argentine staff, this operation enables anglers and non-anglers alike to get the most out of this stunning and diverse region. Rate: $4,550 per person for a 7 night/6 day package 1-800-552-2729 PAGE 33
In terms of sheer numbers of fish and their overall size, the Rio Grande is the world s greatest sea-run brown trout fishery. Photo: Ken Morrish
THE RIO GRANDE, ARGENTINA With an estimated annual return of 75,000 fish averaging nearly 10 pounds, easy wading, and relatively high odds of connecting with a fish in the 20 pound class, there is no denying that the Rio Grande is the greatest sea-run brown trout fishery in the world. The river s season begins in January and extends through mid-april. At Fly Water Travel we are proud of our strong, working relationships with all of the best lodges on the river and look forward to helping you select the date and operation that best suit your needs. In our opinion the following lodges are the finest on the river: KAU TAPEN LODGE This is Tierra del Fuego s original lodge and the one responsible for making the Rio Grande a household name for fly anglers the world over. Remarkable from its inception, Kau Tapen still sets the standard of elegance by which other lodges are measured. With access to both sides of the river, countless easy to fish pools and seasoned guides this is a life list lodge not to be missed. Rate: $7,895 per person for a 7 night/6 day package VILLA MARIA Under the same ownership as Kau Tapen, Villa Maria is the ultimate hub from which to access the riches of the lower Rio Grande. With elegant historic, overnight accommodations at the main estancia and a fabulous little riverfront facility for lunches and the mid-day siesta, this represents yet another outstanding option on a river that knows no equal. Rate: $6,550 per person for a 7 night/6 day package ESTANCIA MARIA BEHETY With access to more than 30 miles of prime pools in the middle river, Estancia Maria Behety is arguably home to the best sea trout water in the world. With spacious accommodations, a skilled guide crew and fine meals, this operation has it all. A modern classic not to be missed. Rate: $5,595 per person for a 7 night/6 day package DESPEDIDA LODGE For hardcore anglers who appreciate long hours on the water, short drive times, and a great value, Despedida delivers! Limited to six anglers, this operation and its team of seasoned guides have a proven record of producing impressive catches from the waters that the locals refer to as the heart of the river. Rate: $5,000 per person for a 7 night/6 day package AURELIA LODGE Nestled between the Menendez and Rio Grande Rivers, just upstream of Kau Tapen, the Aurelia estancia boasts 5,000 acres and more than 15 premium pools on the upper Rio Grande. For those who appreciate the technical challenges of smaller water and the most authentic Argentine experience available on the river, this is the place. Rate: $5,695 per person for a 7 night/6 day package 1-800-552-2729 PAGE 35
Andy Horowitz fast to a hard fighting Irigoyen sea-run. Photo: Brian Gies FAR END RIVERS, ARGENTINA NEW Season: December April Fish Species: Sea-run brown trout Lodge Capacity: 6 anglers Rate: $4,500 per person for a 7 night/6 day package Full Details: See www. flywatertravel.com Relatively unknown to the modern world of traveling anglers, the Irigoyen and its sister systems in southernmost Tierra del Fuego win top honors for the smallest systems with the largest sea-run trout. For trout anglers who enjoy small water, complex woody stream structure, solace from the wind and the chance to land multiple brown trout in the 10-20 pound class on their favorite 7 weight rod, no other systems even come close. While the standard package hosts six anglers per week on the Irigoyen, the lodge also offers a very exciting helicopter program which provides all anglers with An intimate operation where anglers stalk huge sea trout with single hand rods on remote, seldom seen systems two days of fly-out fishing to several otherwise inaccessible small sea-run brown trout systems. This package represents the ultimate South American sea trout angling adventure and at the same time limits the number of anglers on the Irigoyen to four per day. Accommodations are rustic yet elegant and fine meals are accompanied by plenty of fine local wine. The English speaking, Argentine guide crew is exceptional with a tremendous depth of local and international guiding experience. Far End Rivers is one of the most unique and rewarding trophy brown trout destinations we know of. PAGE 36 1-800-552-27 29
Simply put Jurassic is the world s most remarkable and prolific rainbow fishery. Photo: Ken Morrish JURASSIC LAKE, ARGENTINA Jurassic Lake Loop Adventures Jurassic Lake is unquestionably the most prolific trophy rainbow fishery on the planet. Measuring approximately 20 by 20 kilometers, Jurassic is located at 3,000 feet elevation in the wide open, desolate expanse of the Patagonian steppe. Teaming with scuds, fish here average over 10 pounds with countless fish in the mid-teens, as well as monsters in the 20-30 pound class. These fish are freakishly stout, incredibly strong and wildly acrobatic. The camp, built and outfitted by Loop of Sweden, is located at the mouth of the lake s only significant tributary. This is far and away the best location on the lake with anglers racking up big numbers during prime months. Unfortunately there is no easy way to get there and the all day, gut-busting Drive from Hell is a deterrent of significant proportions for all but the most hearty. The Loop camp consists of very simple cabins and a complex of sturdy geodesic domes. The camp can take as many as nine anglers who sleep either two or three per cabin. There are comfortable beds with bedding and an electric light. Excellent, hearty meals and dinners are served in big dome. Rate: 3,390 per person for a 6 night/5 day package Jurassic Lake Laguna Verde Lodge For those who would like to see Jurassic Lake but would rather not endure the grueling trip into the rustic Loop camp, we proudly represent Laguna Verde Lodge. With three hours less driving time and all the comforts you have come to expect from Argentine lodges, Laguna Verde s guest list is growing as quickly as the massive trout that surround it. Laguna Verde Lodge has three distinct and unique elements to its fishing program and the first and foremost is Jurassic Lake. It takes 60 minutes to get from the lodge to the lake. Catch rates vary widely depending on weather, season, skill level and location. During the right wind and weather conditions, drift boats are often employed to stalk the lake s monster trout. The other two fishing elements concentrate on the lake s inlet, the Barrancoso River, and nearby Laguna Verde (Green Lake). The river is great place to fish a 5-6 weight rod and at certain times of the year the fishing can be exceptional. Laguna Verde is immediately in front of the lodge, and has excellent fishing from both boat and bank for trout in the 4-8 pound class. For the ultimate in diversity and comfort in this formidable region, this is the place. Rate: $4,600 per person for a 7 night/6 day package NEW 1-800-552-2729 PAGE 37