Having bigger pools than the lodges farther upstream, Villa Maria is better suited to fisherman who prefer larger water, and is a spey rod aficionado’s dream.

Fishing Program

The fishing schedule typically includes 9 hours of fishing time. The day is comprised of two fishing sessions, one in the morning and another in the evening, separated by a gourmet lunch and siesta during midday which is taken at the scenic lunch cabin overlooking the river. During the height of the austral summer – December and January – it is often possible to fish until nearly midnight, so the afternoon session starts later during these months to take advantage of the “magic hour” at dusk.

It is staffed by an expert team of international and Argentine guides equipped with 4×4 vehicles to get you to the rivers edge and give you all the instruction necessary to tie into these elusive behemoths. Low gradient, relatively shallow, and with a riverbed of fine gravel, the Grande is also extremely easy to wade under most conditions.
Most fishing is accomplished with series of the classic “down and across” swing, the same technique employed on other anadromous species such as Atlantic salmon and Steelhead. 7-9 weight single handed rods or a variety of double handed rods are ideal for this style of fishing. Lines range from full floating to heavy shooting heads, depending on river conditions. The flies used on the Rio Grande are even more varied, and range from small nymphs and dries to giant leeches and tube flies. Villa Maria is a strictly catch and release fishery. Guides are equipped with nets and will assist guests in weighing and releasing fish without damaging them.