The trout fishing in Argentina is second to none. Explore the rich culture of Argentina while casting for big fish. There are still available spots left for the 2018 season at Chocolate Lab Expeditions. Experience the gin-clear waters of Argentine trout waters around San Martin. Historically the dates that are open in January are peak season. Securing a spot last minute is unheard of.
General Information
The cornerstone of Chocolate Lab’s operation is the fact that they can access an amazing variety of world class estancias and over 200 miles of private access waters. Large browns and rainbows dominate the area rivers, streams, and lakes, and steady hatches of mayflies, caddis, and various stoneflies play a role all throughout the Patagonian fishing season. From the crystal-clear, slow-moving waters of the Upper Malleo to the large, narrow currents of the Traful, this region of Patagonia offers unmatched diversity for the angler. Whether your interest lies in fishing small waters with attractors or sight-fishing to large, trophy trout, anglers have a number of options to choose from. Each of the estancias that Chocolate Lab Expeditions fishes employs the English “beat” system of sectioning a river to ensure solitude on the water and an overall first class experience. With a maximum of 10 rods at any of these exclusive estancias, the water is rotated and fish are rested on a regular basis.
The Traful River (Estancia Arroyo Verde)
There are over 10 miles of private access on the world renowned Traful River, a fairly difficult river, but well worth the effort for the angler pursuing the fish of a lifetime. Narrow and clear, the Traful is big fish water with many browns and rainbows in the 25 to 30-inch class. With such incredible water clarity, the river is most often fished using New Zealand style sight-casting techniques.
The Filo Hua Hum River (Estancia Tres Lagos)
There are another 10 miles of private access on the Filo Hua Hum, a small freestone stream that offers excellent opportunities for both beginning and experienced anglers. A short river located between two lakes, the Filo offers very consistent action for rainbows and browns. Experienced anglers can enjoy sight-fishing for trout in the 20 to 27-inch range with mouse patterns and other large dries.
The Chimehuin River (Estancia Tipiluike)
A large freestone river similar in many ways to Montana’s Madison River. It is a perfect fishery for float fishing, sight-fishing, and prospecting with streamers, nymphs, and large attractor dry flies. This river fishes the best from late December into early February, and late March into April.
Collon Cura River (Estancia Collon Cura)
Perhaps the most prolific trout fishery in all of Patagonia and a must-fish river for anglers visiting the area. The water is similar in appearance to Wyoming’s Snake River, but lined with willows and high sandstone cliffs. The river is fairly large, with a mild gradient and broad gravel riffles that make for easy wading. Collon Cura trout are exceptional fighters, with fish averaging in the 14 to 20-inch range. During the Argentine autumn, fall browns can run up to 28 inches.
Malleo River (Estancia San Huberto)
Located in the northern portion of the San Martin fishing area, the Malleo is a very consistent fishery with solid, hard fighting fish. The river is well known throughout the region for spectacular caddis and mayfly hatches, making this lodge a haven for dry fly enthusiast.
Quillen River (The Quillen Lodge)
A mid-size spring-fed stream that has been called “the best dry fly stream in the Northern fishing zone” of Patagonia. Riffles, weed flats, and deep pools provide a variety of fishable water for the angler. The Malalco, a tributary to the Quillen with prolific hatches and large trout, is another incredible spring creek on the estancia.
Boats and Equipment
For float trips, Chocolate Lab Expeditions utilizes a small fleet of top-of-the-line RO Skiffs – the same hard-sided, fiberglass skiffs used on numerous rivers throughout the U.S. Fiberglass is an important part of the structure of a boat, with websites like https://www.compositesone.com/product/fiberglass-reinforcements/chopped-strand-mat/ going further into this on how it can be made to fit in with certain specifications. This operation also carries plenty of back-up rods, reels, lines, waders, boots, etc. available for rent if you choose to travel light. As far as transportation goes, the rivers and estancias are accessed with 4×4 vehicles – a mix of Isuzu Troopers and Toyota Land Cruisers (roomy and comfortable).
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