Exploring Patagonia Argentina goes beyond admiring breathtaking scenery; it also means immersing yourself in the passions of its people. That’s why you shouldn’t miss the chance to experience one of the most cherished and traditional activities in southern South America: Fly Fishing.
Departing from El Calafate, you’ll head toward some of the region’s prime fishing spots, including Lakes Roca, Argentino, and Rico, as well as the Santa Cruz and Pelque Rivers. Here you’ll discover this authentic and artisanal sport, with wading as its primary technique.
Equipped with a rod and artificial lure, called a fly, and guided by local experts, you’ll have the opportunity to catch (and release) the area’s most common species—from Rainbow Trout, to Lake Trout or Bocón, Fontinalis or Spring Trout, and even the great highlight of the region, the Chinook Salmon, a true trophy for Patagonian anglers.
You can choose between a full-day excursion with lunch included or a half-day tour with a snack.
Tour Description
The day begins bright and early with pick-up from your hotel at 08:30 am. Accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll set out to discover some of the region’s top fishing spots. The specific location will be chosen based solely on weather conditions, ensuring optimal fishing results. Possible destinations include:
* LAKE ARGENTINO: Famous for its vast expanse that borders the city of El Calafate, the best fishing area is Punta del Lago , a large bay where anglers can catch Rainbow Trout and Lake Trout. The Lake Trout are particularly renowned for their impressive size. While strong winds are common here and can make fly fishing challenging, your guides are well-prepared to adapt and guarantee a successful outing. Large, flashy flies such as Woolly Bugger or Zonker in purple or black with vibrant red and yellow accents are preferred, used with rods sized 6, 7, or 8.
* ROCA LAKE: This small, clear-water lake offers the chance to catch fish of various sizes, with Rainbow Trout as the main attraction during summer for their size and strength. It’s an excellent spot for fishing with #6 rods and Wet Tip or fast-sinking lines for deeper areas. Popular flies include black Woolly Bugger, Zonker, and Matuka, in black, olive, brown, and nymph hues, with the Prince (large-head) being a standout option.
* LAKE STROBEL: Though difficult to access, this lake promises great rewards, as it holds an impressive population of Rainbow Trout weighing between 3 and 7 kilograms. This remote area is one of the most scenic for sport fishing; heavy gear with 7 or 8-weight sinking lines and large, brightly colored flies are recommended.
* RÍO PELQUE: This clear, slow-gradient river is perfect for catching Brown and Fontinalis trout, ranging from 300 grams to 2 kilograms. Río Pelque is ideal for light tackle, with rods from 2 to 5 and black Woolly Bugger flies.
* RÍO SANTA CRUZ: The province’s largest and most powerful river, it offers excellent fishing in the upper sections due to the abundance of Canadian Trout and Smallmouth Perch. At the river mouth, Steelhead of 3 to 6 kilograms can be found. Recommended gear includes heavy-duty rods (8 or 9-weight) with a strong, at least 9-foot butt, and a reel with excellent drag. Large, weighted streamers are commonly used, including Rabbits, Woolly Bugger, and Zonker flies in colors ranging from purple to black, often with some glitter.
Much of this river remains unexplored, with only about one-third of its length regularly visited by local anglers.
* RÍO CATERINA: Located in the Argentino Lake basin, this is the top spot for targeting Chinook Salmon. Fishing for this species is challenging, as they do not feed when swimming upstream to spawn; however, the guides have developed effective fly fishing techniques to catch them.
Large, articulated flies in bright colors (fluorescent green, orange, etc.), rods in the 7 to 8 range, and sinking lines are used. Patience is key, as once a Salmon strikes, the fight is unmatched. These fish are incredibly strong, so a reel with a good backing reserve and a sturdy tippet is essential.
Throughout your fishing adventure, no matter the chosen destination, your guide will be available at all times. You’ll receive instructions on basic techniques and movements, equipment use, fly assembly, rod selection, and more, with practices adjusted to your experience level.
All fishing will be wading, meaning you’ll walk along the shorelines of rivers or lakes. The provided gear will keep you comfortable in the cold waters: waders and boots with non-slip felt soles (some boots feature studs for extra grip).
You can choose a full-day excursion with 10 hours of sport fishing, including a midday break for a delicious traditional lunch by the water. Alternatively, select a half-day program with 6 hours of fishing and a snack; for this option, departures are at 8:30 am or 2:30 pm.
In Argentine Patagonia, Fly Fishing is always catch and release, ensuring the sport’s enjoyment while preserving native species.
The services conclude with drop-off at your hotel in El Calafate.
What’s included?
What’s included:
* Transfers from Calafate round trip
* Fishing equipment (front reel, rod, artificial lures, wader and boots with non-slip felt sole)
* Registered Fishing Guide
* Lunch (Included in the full day option)
* Insurance in case of accidents
What’s NOT included:
* Fishing license
* Tips (Optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
The fly fishing trip departs from El Calafate, in Argentine Patagonia, and heads towards some of the region's most renowned fishing spots. These include Lakes Roca, Argentino, and Rico, as well as the Santa Cruz and Pelque Rivers. The specific location may depend on the planned activity and the day's conditions. For the exact departure point, the planned route, and all operational details, we recommend consulting the updated tour information before booking.
During this fly-fishing experience in El Calafate, you'll have the opportunity to catch and release some of Patagonia's most iconic species. These include Rainbow Trout, Lake Trout, and Brook Trout. Chinook Salmon, considered a true trophy by anglers in the region, is also a highlight. The availability of each species may vary depending on the fishing location. For more details about the species available on your chosen date, we recommend contacting us beforehand.
This excursion is designed to introduce you to one of the most iconic activities in southern Argentina: fly fishing. The experience is led by expert guides who accompany participants throughout the day, providing an opportunity to learn about this authentic and traditional craft. The primary technique used is wading, with a rod and a traditional artificial lure called a fly. Since no specific prior experience requirements are detailed, it is advisable to inquire before booking whether the activity is suitable for your skill level, as well as the necessary equipment and conditions for participation.
The fly fishing excursion offers two options for enjoying this activity in the landscapes of El Calafate: a full-day trip and a half-day option. The full-day option includes lunch, while the information available does not specify what is included in the half-day option. Both options allow you to explore areas rich in fishing with expert guides and practice wading techniques. Before booking, it is recommended to check the exact duration, itinerary, included services, and conditions of each option.
Yes. The proposal includes catch and release of Patagonia's most representative species as part of a fly-fishing experience. This practice allows you to enjoy the activity and explore the natural environment without keeping the fish you catch. The day's activities involve using a rod, the traditional artificial lure called a fly, and wading, always accompanied by expert guides. Species that may be encountered include various types of trout and Chinook salmon. For specific details on the activity, please consult the information before booking.
PRICES 2026-2027
Full Day Sport Fishing Day
Regular Group Service
- Start Time: 08:30
- Languages: ESP,ENG,POR
- Duration: 10 hrs
- Operation Days: Every day
Half Day Sport Fishing
Includes: Transfers, Guide, Equipment, Drinks, Insurance
- Start Time: 08:30
- Languages: ESP,ENG,POR
- Duration: 5 hrs
- Operation Days: Every day
Price per person based on a booking for 2 people. Prices may vary depending on the date and number of travelers.
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