The Malleo River is one of our favorite smaller rivers in Patagonia. Its beauty, variety of water, and consistent dry fly fishing make it unique. Mayflies and caddis can be found on the water from December to April. Rainbows and browns average 15 inches, and fish over 20” are possible. The size of the Malleo can be compared to the Gallatin River in Montana.
The Chimehuin River is a moderately sized river that can be floated or fished on foot. Like the Malleo it offers a variety of water and consistent mayfly and caddis hatches. Browns and rainbows in the 22-24 inch class are not uncommon and every season 30 plus inch fish are taken! The variety of water on the Chimehuin offers anglers the opportunity to sight fish, throw big attractor dries, nymph, and use some ridiculously large streamers. This is definitely one of the premier rivers in Argentina!
The Alumine River starts it's journey in Northern Patagonia picking up water and speed as it flows south towards its confluence with the Chimehuin, at which point it becomes known as the Collon Cura River. The upper Alumine could be compared to stretches of the upper Deschutes in Oregon. White water, big deep runs, long riffles, strong rainbows, and the occasional big brown make this a wonderful fishery. Access along the Alumine is limited due to lack of roads; multi day float/camp trips are the norm.
The Caleufu River is an incredible fishery that can only be fished early in the season, November /December, when there is enough flow to make floating through its canyon possible. Rainbows and browns in the 15-20 inch class can be expected. A trip down the river involves 2-3 days floating/camping. When fishing the Caleufu you will feel completey removed from civilization.
There are also a number of lesser-known waters in Northern Patagonia that we will be fishing. Many of these smaller sized waters are fishable only in the spring (December). They are off-the-beaten-path waters that haven’t been written about. While you won't find any information on these waters, they are sure to leave a lasting impression long after you've left Patagonia.
Argentina Sample Trip Itinerary