When the mercury drops and winter approaches across the Northern Hemisphere, anglers can find solace knowing that South America is just ramping up for its prime summertime fishing season.
We know it can feel a little overwhelming trying to find the best place to fish in South America, so we’ve narrowed your options down to three lodges in Argentina and Chile that are all completely incredible. From the high-end accommodations, to the 30-pound sea-run trout, to the camaraderie formed out on the water, these trips have it all. See which one(s) appeals to you, and if you have any questions for us, please do cast a line our way.
Kau Taupen Lodge – Argentina
Kau Taupen is the first fishing lodge ever established on the Río Grande. It translates in the Ona Language to “House of Fishing” and since ’84 this place has reeled in memories for countless guests from all over the globe.
The Río Grande is one of the most legendary rivers on the planet, where anglers chase the sea-run trout of their dreams. Each week, anglers land 20-pound trout and, each season, they’ll see trout over 30 pounds—the biggest in the world. And with the exclusive nature of these trips, each boat only allows two anglers and one guide. In other words, the guest-to-guide ratio is unmatched and the serene fishing scene means it’s just you and the trout. This explains why over 75% of the anglers at Kau Taupen are repeat guests.
Meanwhile back at the Kau Taupen lodge, guests enjoy 5-star accommodations to ensure each trip is enjoyable 24/7. The dining room serves up locally-sourced meals matched with fine wines, and the rest of the lodge offers everything you need: a wade gear room, massage room, relaxation hot tub, therapeutic shower, laundry service, and last but not least, a bar.
Chimalife Lodge – Chile
Rivers are often the focus within the South American fishing scene. But when you consider the lakes, a whole new world of opportunity opens. Exhibit A: The 44-square-mile Yechto Lake, on the Southwest tip of Chile. And there’s no one better to explore it with than Chimalife Patagonia.
The variety of fishing methods is a big attractor at Yelcho—ranging from floating and sinking lines, to dry and wet flies at different times of the season and throughout the day. The prime season runs between November and April—allowing prime daytime fishing early in the season, then better success at dusk and dawn as time goes on toward February, March, and April. At the end of the season, around March and April, big browns are the most-chased prize at Yelcho.
Back at the lodge, Chimalife Patagonia offers luxurious dining experiences with local fare and complimentary Chilean wines. And for those with specific cuisine dreams, you can develop a custom menu with the chef. And the lodge itself is like a world of its own—placed remotely in this special part of Chile with unforgettable mountain views and stress-free service from start to finish.
Maria Behety Lodge – Argentina
Another great opportunity to experience fishing nirvana on the Río Grande is at the Maria Behety Lodge, with the Fish Simply crew. There are two Maria Behety Lodges strategically placed within 35 miles of eachother on a prime section of the river—at the very southern tip of Argentina—and anglers here chase the biggest sea-run trout of their lives. On the river and in the abutting pools, you’ll work with the guides to reel in absolute monsters, one pool at a time.
Most of the angling happens early in the morning and during the evening, leaving downtime at the cozy and luxurious lodges. Here, guests enjoy hot Argentine meals prepared by a highly-trained kitchen staff, with plenty of fuel available whenever you need it, like fresh fruit, coffee, and more. And each day ends with indulgent meals paired with fine, local wines—a time to circle up and tell stories from each epic day.
The modern lodges are experience all on their own. Positioned right on the river, they’re relaxing sanctuaries that hosts a dozen anglers each. The bold timber frame interior paired with the clean white exterior is a true marvel, and when you’re sitting beside the fire looking out upon the Río Grande, it’s clear there’s no better place to be.