South America as a Destination:

In my opinion there is no finer trout fishing destination in the world than Chile and Argentina. This statement is perhaps a bit bold but I feel this way for the following reasons:

*Winter in The United States means it is summertime in South America: The months of January, February and March are equivalent to the months of July, August and September in Montana. The main difference is that there are no crowds and the fishing is, by in large, more productive. Unless you can take more than one fishing trip per year, why go out West when you can go to South America during the wintertime?

* Variety & Diversity:  South America has wide diversity of water types in close proximity to each other. There are large rivers where one can drift and cast streamers, and spring creeks that will challenge the skilled angler. There are small rivers which are fun to fish and good confidence builders for beginners. It is possible to fish a different river everyday and not see another angler the whole week.

*Great Dry Fly Fishing: The dry fly fishing is superb and, more often than not, there are trout rising to mayflies, caddis flies, stoneflies and midges. In addition, the terrestrial fishing can be outrageous and big trout will inhale large hopper, beetle and Chernobyl style patterns.

* Some areas offer huge trout: Some places, particularly around lakes where rivers flow in and out (bocas), there are chances of catching the biggest trout of your life. For skilled anglers that enjoy streamer fishing it is very possible to catch a trout over 10 pounds, especially in the early (Nov) and late (April) seasons.

*Flying to there is Simple: South America is easy to get to, especially from the east coast. Flights depart in the early evening and arrive the next day in Buenos Aires or Santiago, and there is only a two-hour time difference. Depending on where you are fishing, you then take a two hour flight into Balmaceda, Puerto Mont, San Martin or Bariloche. In most cases, you will arrive in time to fish the evening hatch.  Very little fishing time is lost since you will be traveling during the evening hours. In simple terms, it is a 24 hour trip from New York or Boston to the lodge, with most of the travel during the evening hours. An extra day in Santiago and Buenos Aires makes the trip a little easier and certainly more cultural. We will help you with all the arrangements and consult you on what itinerary makes the most sense for your particular trip.

*Spectacular Scenery: The scenery is outrageously beautiful and the snow capped Andes are always making their presence known. There are gorgeous vistas around every corner and an angler realizes that it is not just the fishing that brought him here, but the complete angling experience. You will be immersed in a pure, unspoiled, wild setting that, simply put, is magnificent!

*Argentina and Chile are Relaxed, Cultural & Fun: In both countries people are kind, fun and have an easy going way about them. They are hard working, humble and extremely gracious. Life moves a little slower and everything is pushed back an hour or two. There are pisco sours, asados, pampas, gaucho's, condors, and a host of other things we don't hear of in North America. Put this all together and you have an unforgettable fishing vacation that will make a lasting impression.

Rob's Hosted Trips for 2011:

In Jan & Feb of 2011, I will be hosting 3 trips to Patagonia. Group size will be 4-6 anglers per week, and deposits are due by July 1, 2010 if you want to get the "early bird" discounted rate. Each rate is based on double occupancy & two anglers per guide. Included are 7 nights lodging, 6 full days of guided fishing, all meals, beer/ wine, and transfers. Airfare and tips not included.

Jan 8-15th Esquel Outfitters (Choila,Argentina)
$3600 per person/$3850 after July 1st
This is one of the top outfitters in Patagonia. I first fished with them in 1998 and they continue to exceed all expectations. The great fishing will begin in Los Alerces National Park. After fishing the Rivadavia and lodging at El Trebol we will float the productive and remote Chubut for 3 days and two nights. The action to browns and rainbows from 12-19 inches is non-stop and the food prepared by the camp staff amazing. After our expedition we go to a 60,000 acre private estancia (ranch) that gives us over 20 miles of exclusive access to the Guiljaina River. Our 6th and last day of fishing will be on the regulated waters of Arroyo Pescado where it is possible to catch huge numbers of fish, and in some areas, trout up to 8 pounds. www.esqueloutfitters.com

Jan 15-Jan 22 Chime Lodge (Junin, Argentina)
$3850 per person
Located in the center of some of Argentina's most famous rivers, overlooking the Chimehuin River, Chime Lodge has it all. Built just two years ago, this lodge provides weary anglers with comfortable beds and fine cuisine prepared by a professional chef. The fishing options are many with float trips (perhaps overnight camping) on the Alumine, Chimehuin, or Collon Cura rivers. Close by is what many consider the best dry fly river in Patagonia: the Malleo. Given decent conditions, it is common to have 20-40 fish days with the average trout between 16-20 inches. Much larger fish are always a possibility on any one of these great rivers. Much of our fishing will be with dry flies such as caddis, mayflies, or the incredible green inch worm hatch. Although some of these rivers are large in size and best fished from drift boats, there are plenty of places to get out and wade in side channels and huge riffles. (www.chimelodge.com)

Jan 29th – Feb 5th Chucao Lodges (Chile)
$3600 per person / $4200 after July 1st
Gonzalo Cortes literally wrote the book "Fly Fishing in Chilean Patagonia." He has built two strategically located, first class lodges: one on Lago Yelcho at the mouth of the incomparable Rio Yelcho and the other on Lago Rosselot with quick access to several world class rivers such at the Palena and Figueroa. There are good wading options in this are but this trip is primarily for the angler that enjoys fishing from boats. Sight fishing to large rainbows with dry flies and streamer fishing to massive browns from 5-12 pounds is what this area is all about. Fishing the lakes can produce amazing strikes from large trout that take large dragonfly patterns. Because we have access to two lodges, the fishing diversity is unmatched. www.chucaolodge.com

Note: Give me a call for more information and details.