Report from our friends at El Encuentro Lodge and Brook Trout Base Camp – Fall fishing Highlights

AlexanderBrook trout

Dear Friends,

Our final week of fishing season was a wet one—but just as productive as ever. Patagonia in the fall is nothing short of magical. With fresh snow on the peaks and the trees turning shades of red, yellow, and orange, it feels like nature is celebrating alongside us. Even the trout seemed to join in, with their vibrant pre-spawn colors—deep reds, golden flanks.

Fall fishing in Patagonia truly offers a unique experience. The season runs from mid-March to late April, when the Andes get their first snowfall and autumn colors transform the hillsides and river valleys. Cooler temperatures and shorter days bring out the best in Patagonia’s brook, brown, and rainbow trout populations. Migratory trout become highly active as they prepare for spawning, leading to aggressive takes on streamers and thrilling surface strikes on flying ants.

Fishing conditions this fall have been exceptional. Cool, crisp mornings gave way to mild afternoons, and the rivers ran cold and clean, perfect for active fish. Brown trout were especially aggressive as they prepared for the spawn, chasing streamers. Streamer fishing in the fall is prime time for targeting these migratory trout, with floating lines, sink tips, and even Trout Spey techniques delivering exciting action. Rainbows and brookies were eager on big dry flies during the warmer stretches of the day, often getting the late-season mayfly hatches. When those hatches came off, the action turned electric—sipping rises in the slicks, explosive takes in the riffles, and pods of fish working emergers just beneath the film.

There were opportunities for diverse tactics, whether wet wading or floating, guided by experts skilled in a variety of techniques, including Spey casting.

The seasonal atmosphere was remarkable: sunny days reaching 70°F (21°C) alternated with snowy days around 40°F (4°C), mirroring the Northern Hemisphere’s autumn. Interestingly, inclement weather often produced the best fishing days, rewarding anglers with unforgettable catches.

Lakes and lagoons also fished well, especially on calm, overcast days when big trout cruised the shallows. On the right afternoon, mayfly spinners clouded the still air, drawing fish tight to the edges for dramatic takes in ankle-deep water.

Beyond the water, comfort awaited. After adventurous days, anglers could unwind at our cozy destinations with a warm fire, achieving the perfect balance of challenge and relaxation.

We’re incredibly grateful to all our guests this season: those who’ve just discovered us, those who know this place as well as we do, and those who follow along from afar, dreaming of a future trip. Sharing our passion for Patagonia is what makes this all worthwhile.

It’s been a busy fall, and the fishing reports from our guides say it all: the fish keep getting bigger, the action more consistent, and the landscapes more unforgettable. What a way to end the season!

If you want to learn more about El Encuentro and Brook Trout Base Camp please shoot us an email to Info@farawayflyfishing.com