Trevelin / Argentina
Tailwaters Fly Fishing TravelARGENTINA FLY FISHING
Patagonia River Guides, or “PRG,” is American owned and operated by Rance Rathie and Travis Smith. Rance and Travis are born and bred fly fishermen who have been guiding anglers in Montana since their teens. Their passion for fishing and guiding ultimately led them to Argentina over twenty years ago where they saw a unique opportunity to apply their extensive knowledge and expertise to build the most comprehensive and professional fly fishing operation in Patagonia. Their flagship owned and operated Lodge at Trevelin has earned a reputation as simply the greatest trout fishing lodge in South America.
Whether its their modern and well maintained trucks, boats, and fly fishing tackle, their all-star guides and staff, amazing fishing, distinct scenery, ridiculously good cuisine and wines, or their “fish a different river everyday” philosophy – there is no question PRG offers the most complete and dynamic cultural and angling experience in Patagonia for hard-core anglers as well as adventurous couples. In addition to their world-class fly fishing programs, PRG also offers some of the finest wild quail and red stag hunting in South America, allowing guests the unique opportunity to combine fly fishing and hunting from the same lodge.
The Lodge at Trevelin also offers a variety of non-angling activities for non-fishing spouses or those just looking to take the day off from fishing. Each day is tailor-made to fit your preference. From enjoying a spa day, horseback riding, hiking, shopping, or learning about the history with a tour of the surrounding area, we are sure every non-angler will enjoy their time in Argentina. Starting on March 15th, guests also have the opportunity to hunt quail over bird dogs or extend your trip to include a Red Stag hunt.
PRG operates in three separate and distinct regions: the Esquel and Los Alerces National Park Area (Trevelin); The Rio Pico Area (Tres Valles Lodge); and the San Martin and Junin del los Andes Area (PRG North). PRG has unique lodges in each area and extensive fly-fishing programs covering almost all of the trout regions of Argentina.
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS FOCUSING STRICTLY ON PRG’S LODGE AT TREVELIN.
Location: Trevelin, Argentina
Species: Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout
Seasonality: November - May
Rates: from $9,900, $9,900 Per Person
PRG’s Trevelin area programs are arguably the most sought after in all of Argentina. The area surrounding Trevelin and Esquel offers over two-dozen rivers and the most diverse fishing in all of Argentina. From temperate rainforest in Los Alerces National Park to the arid Patagonia steppe – all within striking distance of The Lodge at Trevelin – the area is a fly fisherman’s dream come true. Since the waters, fishing, and scenery are so distinct, we recommend trying PRG’s signature “fish a different river daily” program to make the most of the experience. Those that do will enjoy casting flies in every kind of water imaginable and catching a variety of strong wild trout. The area’s rivers boast rainbows, browns, brook trout, and landlocked salmon in their waters. There is such a large selection of large rivers, small rivers, spring creeks, and lakes in the Trevelin area that anglers can choose to wade or float daily.
Episode 11: Fly Fishing Argentina | Tailwaters Podcast on Argentinas best fly fishing destinations
The lodge and surrounding building consist of 14 spacious, tastefully appointed bedrooms, each with private ensuite baths and all the comforts one would expect in a five-star facility. There are six rooms on the top floor, three located off the wrap-around deck, and three more in a separate cabin just a short walk from the lodge. Also recently added are two luxurious “Vineyard Suites” located down the hill by the winery. All rooms have a private ensuite bathroom. Trevelin always comes with complimentary private (solo) and individual rooms so a group of friends can individually enjoy a pleasant and restful night of sleep, and a little bit more space.
The lodge also features two full bars, a billiards room, two living/relaxing rooms, and a central dining area with indoor parilla (barbeque grill) where gourmet meals and world famous Argentine asados (barbeques) are served by professional kitchen staff. Newly built in 2020 during the pandemic, PRG has a beautiful spa, equipped with a sauna, massage center, hot tub, and an outdoor bar.
Patagonia River Guides has a great deal to offer in addition to world-class fly fishing. Non-fishing guests, or those who simply want to take a day off from fishing, can enjoy relaxing around the lodge, indulge in the lodge spa, or choose from a variety of guided activities including: walking, hiking or biking in or around Patagonia’s national parks, horseback riding on one of the area estancias, bird watching with an ornithologist, massage and holistic healing activities with professional therapist, whitewater rafting or scenic float trips, area cultural tours, shopping for local arts, crafts and gifts, visits across the border to Chile, and on-site cooking classes.
Non-fishers are just as important as the fishermen and a complete itinerary will be prepared with as few or as many activities as the non-fisher would like. Please contact us for a complete schedule and options for non-fishing programs.
CAST AND BLAST OPTIONS WITH PRG PRG also offers some of the finest wild quail and red stag hunting in South America, allowing guests the unique opportunity to combine fly fishing and hunting from the same lodge starting March 15th.
Before you book
From $9,900 per person. $9,900 Per Person
Tailwaters Travel must adhere to the cancellation policies of the guides, outfitters and lodges which it represents. Patagonia River Guides’ policy follows: A non-refundable 50% deposit is required to secure all reservations. Final balance is due 90 days prior to departure. All deposits are non-refundable unless clients can be replaced. Full payment may be transferred to another guest for original dates. PRG reserves the right to charge a handling fee of $500 per person for date changes after initial reservation has been made. No credits or refunds are given for fishing time lost due to inclement weather. Refunds of deposits/payments made on credit cards will be charged a 3.5% service charge to fully compensate Tailwaters Travel for all bank charges incurred. Receipt of deposit and/or final payment is acknowledgement that registrant has read and accepts the cancellation, refund and responsibility clauses.
Given the strict cancellation and refund policies associated with nearly all fishing packages, we cannot stress enough the importance of obtaining travel insurance to protect your investment. Redpoint Travel Protection / Ripcord offers competitive medical/cancellation/interruption coverage to couple with their industry-leading medical evacuation services. Click here to learn more and contact us to generate a quote.
Guests travel to Buenos Aires via direct overnight flight from several U.S. cities including New York, Miami, Houston, and Dallas/Ft. Worth International airports — arriving into Buenos Aires the following morning.
Guests traveling straight through then gather their luggage, clear customs, and are met by a driver who transfers the group across town to the Domestic Airport (AEP) for the flight to Esquel (EQS) aboard Aerolineas Argentinas. Most travelers elect to spend the day and evening in Buenos Aires prior to departing for Patagonia the following morning. If you have the time, B.A.’s nightlife, restaurants, museums, culture, and shopping are well worth the effort. This is a great way to break up the two legs of the journey, do some sightseeing, and recharge your batteries.
Tailwaters uses a very reliable local travel agent and concierge who lends a hand with domestic airfare, as well as customs assistance and chauffeur service that provides ground transfers, hotel reservations, and local activities for all our clients in Buenos Aires. Upon arrival in Patagonia, all PRG groups are met by a representative from Patagonia River Guides and transferred approximately thirty (30) minutes to Trevelin.
Trevelin’s season is November 1 - mid May.
There really is no “best time” to go - just nuances with weather to consider. The fishing season officially opens in Argentine Patagonia on November 1st. November has a springtime feel to it with snow still on the mountains and the wildflowers blooming.
December should be considered a prime South American summer month for anglers, and oftentimes the rivers are in the best shape of the season.
Summer (January - mid March) is the most popular season for fishing and tourism in Patagonia. Kids are on vacation and tourists abound. The weather is the best this time of the year with the warmest temperatures.
Fall (March 15 - May) is the favorite of many anglers, and it is a great time to visit Patagonia. Summer tourist traffic drops off completely and anglers once again have a vast wilderness to themselves with autumn leaves changing and cooler temperatures.
Contact Tailwaters
Contact our travel team to discuss dates, availability and a trip to Patagonia River Guides Trevelin.
Trip details and availability are confirmed with the travel team.
Trevelin, Argentina
Our Argentina Trout collection of gear, flies, tackle, clothing and accessories has been thoughtfully curated by our team of professionals that know exactly what is needed for a productive trip below the equator. Whether it is in-store, online, or through a virtual outfitting appointment, we would love to lend a hand getting your gear organized for a trip to Argentina.
Argentina is the perfect destination for trout enthusiasts, but anglers traveling south should understand the seasonality and pack accordingly. The month of your travel will dictate fishing techniques, fly box assortments, and the apparel you should pack to stay comfortable on the water. We are here to help you streamline and maximize your packing list.
