Fishing season opens in Argentine Patagonia on November 1. Although the rivers can be a bit high during the early season, the combination of high water and zero fishing pressure create the perfect opportunity to land some truly enormous fish.
The Carrileufu River offers amazing fishing for large rainbows and browns as well as landlocked salmon. Large dry flies are very effective during the day—especially when the trout key in on the numerous dragonflies buzzing along the river’s edge. In the evenings, the river’s hefty brown trout become active and will eat a well-presented dry fly or streamer.
While visiting Carrileufu River Lodge, you must spend a day floating the Rivadavia. The gin-clear water is home to some of the largest rainbow, brown, and brook trout in the region, as well as landlocked salmon. Throwing large dry flies like hoppers, Chernobyl Ants, and dragonflies will produce nice fish all day long. However, large streamers are the preferred choice for those seeking a real monster.
Anglers looking for a challenge should spend a day in the nearby Los Alerces National Park fishing its spring creeks. Surrounded by dense forest, these lush, ice-cold streams hold enormous trout. Be warned—the flat, crystal-clear waters and extremely technical casting will challenge even the most accomplished anglers. The reward for your patience and stealth, however, may well be the fish of a lifetime.
