The land of Patagonia is perhaps best known for its beautiful glaciers, endless vistas and the diverse wildlife that calls it home. But did you know that this region also has some of the best fly fishing in the world? If you're planning a trip to South America and are interested in catching trout or salmon, then this guide is for you!
What is Patagonia?
Patagonia is a region of South America that’s divided into two main parts: the Andes mountains and the Atlantic coast. It's a very special place for fly fishing, because there’s so much open space and lots of rivers and lakes.
Patagonia is also known as one of the best places in the world for fly-fishing. A trip to Patagonia may be just around the corner from you or it may be far away, but either way, it's worth planning ahead for your trip!
What kind of fishing can you do in Patagonia?
You can fly fish, sight cast and wade. The best part is that there are no crowds. Because of this, it’s easy to have a good time if you’re a beginner or advanced angler. Whether you choose to be in a boat or on the shore, Patagonia offers some of the best fishing opportunities in Chile.
Where in Patagonia will give you the best fishing?
Where in Patagonia will give you the best fishing?
Patagonia is a huge area, so it depends on where you want to go. The best fishing is in the northern part of Patagonia, which has a lot of lakes and rivers.
The south also has good fishing, but some areas are better than others. If you want to go deep sea fishing or salmon fishing, then Puerto Madryn is probably your best option. If you want lake and river fishing (trout), then Aysen (or even further south) would be better for that type of activity.
The center has excellent trout/salmon streams as well but they're less accessible than those found in other parts of Patagonia
What fish can I catch in Patagonia?
The rivers of Patagonia are home to a multitude of native species. However, there are also many introduced fish species that have been brought in over time by humans. These imported fish have caused major environmental damage and had a negative impact on the native ecosystem. Despite this fact, there are still plenty of opportunities for catching fish if you know where to look! Here is an overview of some common types found throughout the region:
Trout (salmonids)
Salmon
Perch/Pike (perciformes)
How far in advance should I plan my trip?
Because of its unpredictable weather, Patagonia can be a difficult place to plan a trip. The best time to go is in the fall, winter and spring months. The summer season is very hot, and you will not be able to fish as many rivers due to low water levels. This is when you would want to fly fish if you are interested in doing so.
What's the weather like to fly fish in the Patagonia?
Fly fishing is a popular activity in Patagonia, and you will probably spend more time on the water than you think you will. The weather here can be unpredictable, so bring layers and don't forget your sunscreen. Summer is warm, spring and fall are mild. Winter can be cold, but there are some days that are warm enough to fish in short sleeves. Rainy season is from November to March however there are plenty of sunny days during this time as well as many short rain showers which make for great angling conditions especially if it's been dry for awhile!
What's the best time of year to go fly fishing?
The best time of year to go fly fishing in Patagonia is late spring and early summer. The weather is usually good, streams are running high, and more fish are in the streams. This means larger fish are in the streams as well. In general, when it comes to fishing or hunting in Patagonia we recommend you plan your trip during this time of year unless you have something else specific that you want to do there.
Do I need experience to go fly fishing in the Patagonia?
If you have never fly fished before, or are a beginner, we recommend taking a lesson. You can take classes classes at our lodge and learn from experts guides.
If you're already an experienced fly fisherman and have all your gear with you, then go ahead and book a trip!
Are there non-angling activities that we can do at a lodge in the Patagonia?
Yes, there are plenty of non-angling activities to enjoy at a lodge in Patagonia. Here are some popular options:
Hiking: Local guides can help you explore the stunning mountains, glaciers, and valleys of the region.
Horseback Riding: You'll be able to see firsthand how humans and animals relied on each other for survival before modern transportation systems were developed.
White water rafting: There's nothing quite like white water rafting in Patagonia. The adrenaline rush you get from being tossed around and the breathtaking scenery are sure to leave you breathless.
Bird Watching: Some species have been known to migrate all the way from South America to Africa every year as part of their natural cycle; if you're lucky enough (or patient enough), maybe you'll catch a glimpse!
Conclusion
The Patagonia is an amazing place and we hope our answers to these questions have helped you on your way to planning your trip. If you want more information about how to get there, the best hotels and lodges, what gear to bring, or anything else related to fly fishing in the Patagonia please contact us at fish@elsaltamonteslodge.com.