As the world’s 8th largest nation, Argentina offers virtually limitless fishing opportunities! Throughout Patagonia, countless rivers and lakes deliver some of Earth’s finest trout angling. Spring-fed streams, dam-controlled waters, rocky mountain rivers, glacier-fed systems, and expansive lakes dot the landscape across the region. Patagonia’s varied climates further enhance this diversity, creating remarkably different fishing environments.
At Blue Waters Travel, we specialize in three exceptionally productive and distinctive areas: Trevelin & Esquel (gateway to Los Alerces National Park), Rio Pico, and San Martin de los Andes. Each zone presents a unique and stunning facet of Argentina, unified by one constant: extraordinary trout fishing.
Curious about how trout came to inhabit Patagonia? Discover the fascinating story here.
This zone shares traits with North American mountain fishing, yet water movement through these Andean peaks creates something entirely distinct. Waterways here begin either as mountain snowmelt or emerge from underground sources across the steppe grasslands. An unusual characteristic: most streams-except the Arroyo Pescado, Tecka, and Chubut-travel westward through mountain passes reaching the Pacific rather than moving east toward the Atlantic like other Argentine systems.
Aquatic environments here reflect the surrounding terrain’s complexity, offering various stream styles, standing waters, and flowing channels loaded with healthy native trout. Certain channels carry significant volume year-round; alternative systems stay small and technical, requiring stealth; others present long walking beats suited for visible fly patterns. Approximately half support drift boat fishing while others excel for on-foot approaches. This stunning landscape hosts Blue Waters base camp at Trevelin-our main operations center. Enlarge the MAP by clicking the image.
A major productive waterway with calm stretches, choppy runs, and deep pools offering diverse tactics. Exceptional for terrestrial patterns. Located fifteen minutes from our lodge. Average fish: 16-20 inches. Daily catches of 20+ fish common.
Runs 30 miles before joining the Grande. Offers walk-and-wade fishing with varied conditions. Mix of freestone and spring creek character. Fish average smaller but occasional 18+ inch trout on dries. Perfect for light tackle enthusiasts.
Elite spring creek located 45 minutes from lodge. January-May season. Crystal clear, shallow water demands sight-fishing approach. Selective trout 16-22+ inches. Incredible bird watching: flamingos, geese, swans, condors. Stunning steppe scenery surrounds you.
Willow-lined stream flowing to Atlantic. Three-day float-camp expedition required. Comfortable camping with evening asados. Consistent rainbow action 14-18 inches on dries and crab patterns. Best spring/early summer when water levels support journey.
Los Alerces National Reserve exists to safeguard Patagonia’s remaining giant sequoia stands. Spanning over 500,000 acres, this protected zone contains an extraordinary network of interconnected waterways featuring more than two dozen streams and standing waters. Most interior sections remain untouched due to restricted eastern boundary entry, with prime fishing zones requiring experienced guides and quality equipment.
The environment consists almost entirely of temperate rainforest (specifically Valdivian Rainforest), distinguishing it from Patagonia’s typically arid regions. Trout introduction occurred in 1964, and populations have thrived. Anglers encounter rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout, and landlocked salmon within emerald-tinted waters where sight-fishing dominates. Water transparency proves remarkable-most streams allow spotting every fish before casting. Venture slightly beyond popular areas and discover trout confidently taking size four surface patterns.
Regarded as among Earth’s most stunning waterways and Argentina’s fishing crown jewel. Flows five miles from Lago Rivadavia to Lago Verde. Challenging yet rewarding-fish average 18+ inches, fight powerfully. Crystal clarity, beech-lined banks, technical casting required.
Originates beyond park boundaries, crossing northern borders. Famous for early-season landlocked Atlantic salmon plus strong browns and rainbows. Exceptionally clear water flows from Lago Cholila through historic Cholila Valley. November-January optimal. Floating provides best access.
Connects Lago Verde to Lago Futalaufquen. Slow, deep, four-mile stretch. Early season (Nov-Jan) most productive. Named for distinctive orange-barked trees. Sight-cast dries to suspended rainbows or swing streamers for big browns. Exciting when conditions align.
Small lakes offering excellent action when conditions peak. Nice fish readily take large surface patterns near shorelines. Ten-thousand-foot peaks backdrop creates stunning scenery. Ideal for anglers wanting willing fish and spectacular lake system views.
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