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PRG – Northern Patagonia Guided Trout Fishing

Patagonia Argentina, Argentina

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LOCATION

Argentina, Patagonia Argentina

TARGET SPECIES

Trout, Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout

TECHNIQUE

Fly Fishing

SEASON

November to May

ACCOMMODATION

Up to 16 guests

Fishing with PRG North

  • Who this experience is for:

    Those drawn to Patagonia’s classic trout rivers who want to fish multiple watersheds in one trip, combining drift boat and walk-and-wade fishing within a flexible guided program moving between estancia lodges over the course of a week.

Across the open valleys of Northern Patagonia, PRG runs a highly customizable program for visiting anglers, rotating guests between iconic trout rivers such as the Chimehuín, Malleo, and Collón Cura while staying at a selection of well-appointed lodges and traditional working estancias across the region.

How the PRG North Program Works

Patagonia River Guides—often referred to simply as PRG—operates a guided Patagonia trout fishing program designed around mobility rather than a single fixed lodge stay. In Northern Patagonia this approach takes advantage of the river systems surrounding San Martín de los Andes and Junín de los Andes, where numerous productive trout rivers lie within practical reach of one another.

Key rivers in this region include the Chimehuín, Malleo, Aluminé, Collón Cura, and Limay, each offering slightly different water types and seasonal conditions. Instead of returning to the same stretch of river every day, guides review weather patterns, water levels, and insect activity before selecting the river most likely to fish well.

Lodging rotates between a small group of well-positioned estancias across the region, many of them working ranches. Each move brings a change in landscape and water, creating a program that follows the natural pace of Patagonia’s seasonal windows without feeling scripted.

PRG North – Guided Fishing Program Overview

The PRG North program can be summarized as follows:

  • Region: San Martín de los Andes & Junín de los Andes, Neuquén
  • Key Rivers: Chimehuín, Malleo, Aluminé, Collón Cura
  • Fishing Style: Float and walk-and-wade trout fishing
  • Program Structure: Multi-river itineraries across several estancia lodges

Fishing Private Estancias and Protected River Beats

Much of the riverbank across Northern Patagonia lies within traditional ranchlands known as estancias. These properties often maintain long stretches of river frontage where fishing access remains controlled and relatively quiet.

Patagonia River Guides works with several of these ranches, including estancias such as Tipiliuke, Arroyo Verde and Quemquemtreu, allowing anglers to fish waters rarely visited by the general public. These landscapes shape the atmosphere of the fishing week—wide pastures stretching toward the Andes, horses grazing near the riverbanks, and condors occasionally gliding high overhead.

Rivers of the San Martín and Junín de los Andes Region

Few areas of South America offer such a concentrated network of productive trout rivers. Within a short drive of San Martín and Junín de los Andes, several of Patagonia’s most recognizable fisheries flow through wide valleys framed by distant Andean ridges.

The Chimehuín River, flowing out of Lake Huechulafquen, is widely regarded as one of Argentina’s classic dry-fly rivers. Its steady current and well-defined runs create ideal conditions for presenting floating flies during hatch periods. Nearby, the Malleo River winds quietly through ranchland and forested foothills, where clear water and gravel runs reward careful presentations.

Larger rivers such as the Collón Cura expand the scale of the fishing. Wide valley floors, grassy banks, and long bends reveal miles of trout water where brown and rainbow trout occupy deeper currents. Together these rivers form a landscape defined by diversity, allowing anglers to experience multiple styles of trout fishing within a single region.

Drift Boat Fishing Patagonia’s Larger River Systems

Several of Northern Patagonia’s larger rivers lend themselves naturally to fishing from drift boats, a signature element of the PRG North program. These float sessions allow anglers to cover long sections of water while presenting flies along banks and deeper mid-channel currents where trout hold throughout the season.

On rivers such as the Collón Cura and sections of the Limay, the scale of the valley becomes especially apparent from the water. Gravel bars divide the current into seams and gentle runs, while distant hills frame the horizon. A day’s float may reveal miles of productive trout water, with guides pausing frequently to fish promising water along the way.

Fishing from drift boats allows anglers to explore water that would otherwise require long walks or difficult access from shore, while offering a relaxed way to take in the changing landscapes along the river.

Walk-and-Wade Fishing on Classic Patagonia Trout Rivers

While some of Northern Patagonia’s better-known rivers are covered by drift boat, others are best experienced on foot. The Malleo and upper Chimehuín are good examples, with steady flows, firm gravel bottoms, and the kind of water that invites a slower, more attentive pace.

The fishing here usually feels more measured than on the float sections. Days are spent covering runs, bends, and quieter holding water, especially when insect activity brings trout to the surface. These valleys have a more open feel, with grasslands, low willow lines, and the Andes often visible in the distance, giving this part of Patagonia a very distinct character.

Seasonal Dry-Fly Fishing Across Northern Patagonia

The trout season across Northern Patagonia generally runs from November through April, with fishing conditions evolving gradually as summer unfolds.

Early in the season, snowmelt keeps rivers cold and lively, with trout feeding actively during aquatic insect hatches. As summer progresses, terrestrial insects—particularly grasshoppers and beetles—become increasingly important, often bringing consistent dry-fly fishing to rivers such as the Malleo and Chimehuín.

By late season, cooler nights and changing light often trigger renewed feeding activity as trout prepare for winter.

Lakes and Tributaries of Northern Patagonia

Although rivers dominate the region’s reputation, several lakes and tributaries add further variety to the fishing week. Lakes such as Huechulafquen, Lolog, and Tromen sit high in the Andean foothills where clear water reflects volcanic slopes and forested ridges.

These waters can offer productive fishing when river conditions shift, and tributary streams feeding these lakes often provide quieter stretches of trout water away from the larger rivers.

Why Northern Patagonia Remains Patagonia’s Classic Trout Region

Around San Martín and Junín de los Andes, several major rivers flow across the same valley system, creating one of the most concentrated trout fishing landscapes in South America. It’s a established setup that gives consistent access to different water over the course of a week.

PRG also offers alternative programs in other parts of Patagonia, including a multi-day float experience through their PRG Unplugged program, as well as a separate Southern Patagonia trout program based around the rivers of Chubut Province.

For anglers seeking variety across Patagonia’s most established trout rivers, the Northern Patagonia program with PRG delivers a week shaped by mobility, river knowledge, and classic dry-fly water.

To learn more about the fishing and express an interest, message Patagonia River Guides.

Fishing Highlights

  • Customizable itinerary
  • Guided fishing
  • Loaner rods & reels
  • Loaner wading gear
  • Premium fishing gear
  • Sight fishing
  • Soft drinks while fishing
  • Trophy fishing
  • Wilderness fishing

Patagonia River Guides operates a fully equipped trout fishing program, allowing guests to travel light if preferred. High-quality Winston fly rods, Hatch reels, and a full range of floating and sink-tip lines are available, along with Simms waders and boots in a wide range of sizes.

A 9 ft 5 or 6-weight rod covers most situations, with a 6-weight or heavier rod useful on larger rivers such as the Collón Cura. All flies, leaders, and tippet are provided, with guide selections developed over years on these waters.

Anglers are welcome to bring their own gear, but it isn’t necessary. Many guests travel with only clothing, relying on the outfitter’s equipment throughout the week.

  • Fishing Program: Freshwater Fly Fishing

  • Fishing Gear: Loaner gear is available for guests.

  • Species to Target: Trout, Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout

  • Season: The fishing at PRG North runs from November to May.

  • For seasonal updates and recommended gear, message Patagonia River Guides.

Commitment to Sustainability

  • PRG North follows catch-and-release (C&R) practices to help sustain fish populations for future generations.

  • Advocates for Catch & Release

PRG North Accommodation

Set across the river valleys of San Martín de los Andes and Junín de los Andes, anglers stay in a rotating network of fishing lodges and traditional Patagonian estancias, moving between river systems while experiencing the region’s open ranch landscapes and Andean foothills.

Rotating Between Lodges and Estancias

The Northern Patagonia program with Patagonia River Guides is built around a small network of lodges and traditional estancias positioned across the river valleys surrounding San Martín de los Andes and Junín de los Andes. Rather than remaining at a single property for the entire trip, anglers typically rotate between two or more lodge bases over the course of the week, as the fishing moves between different river systems.

These properties are located close to the rivers that define the program, allowing access to waters such as the Chimehuín, Malleo, Aluminé, and Collón Cura without long transfers. Moving between lodges allows the itinerary to follow the geography of the region while keeping anglers close to the water being fished each day.

Where you stay during the week depends on the itinerary, forming part of the flexible structure that defines a Patagonia River Guides program.

Classic Patagonian Estancias and Fishing Lodges

Accommodation reflects the character of Northern Patagonia’s ranch valleys. Several of the properties are long-established estancias—large working cattle ranches where trout rivers flow directly through the surrounding land—while others operate as dedicated fishing lodges positioned near key rivers.

Rooms are typically arranged in small guest houses or lodge buildings, with a limited number of rods each week. Evenings return to a relaxed rhythm after time on the water, with shared meals, fireside conversations, and views across the surrounding valleys toward the Andes.

Comfortable Bases Close to the Rivers

While the fishing itinerary moves between different waters during the week, the goal is to keep travel practical and the daily rhythm straightforward. With close access to the rivers they serve, anglers spend more time fishing and less time on the road.

This structure also introduces different parts of Northern Patagonia’s landscape—from open ranch country along the Collón Cura to the forested valleys around San Martín de los Andes—while maintaining the comfort of well-run lodge bases throughout the trip.

To explore room options, availability, and planning your stay, message Patagonia River Guides.

Accommodation Options

Tres Rios Lodge

  • Sleeps 8

Tres Rios is a small lodge positioned on a bluff above the Chimehuín and Collón Cura rivers, with open views across the surrounding valley. The location gives it a slightly elevated, more exposed feel compared to some of the more sheltered properties in the region.

The lodge accommodates up to eight guests across four double-occupancy rooms, each with its own bathroom. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with a straightforward layout that works well for pairs sharing during the week.

The main building centers around a relaxed living space and bar, where evenings tend to gather after time on the water. A separate structure houses a dedicated mudroom, keeping gear and daily routines well organized, along with an outdoor fire pit area used on calmer evenings.

Meals are prepared in-house with a focus on regional ingredients and simple, well-executed dishes, supported by a selection of Argentine wines. The atmosphere remains informal, with a steady rhythm that suits the pace of the fishing program.

Tres Rios also operates with a degree of self-sufficiency, using solar and wind power while still maintaining reliable hot water, electricity, and WiFi. Despite the remote setting, the lodge remains comfortable and functional throughout the week.

Within the PRG North program, Tres Rios works well for smaller groups looking for a quieter, more contained base with direct access to both the Chimehuín and Collón Cura systems.

Arroyo Verde

  • Sleeps 10

Arroyo Verde is a small lodge set in a quieter corner of the Trafúl Valley, positioned away from the more frequented parts of northern Patagonia. The setting feels contained and calm, with forest, river, and surrounding mountains shaping the immediate landscape around the lodge.

The lodge accommodates up to ten guests, keeping the overall atmosphere personal and low-key. Rooms are comfortable and well considered, with warm wood tones, natural materials, and large windows that bring in light and views of the valley. The layout and scale make it easy to settle into a steady rhythm over the course of the week.

A central living space with a fireplace forms the core of the lodge, where evenings tend to gather naturally after time on the water. The smaller size of the property creates a consistent, unhurried pace, with plenty of space to step away when needed.

Meals are prepared in-house with a focus on regional ingredients and traditional Argentine cooking. Asados are a regular part of the week, alongside straightforward, well-executed dishes and a selection of local wines. Service is attentive without being overly formal, in keeping with the overall feel of the lodge.

Arroyo Verde works particularly well for those looking for a smaller, more private base within the PRG North program—less about scale, more about a consistent atmosphere and a quieter setting between fishing days.

Quemquemtreu

  • Sleeps 10

Quemquemtreu sits deep within one of the largest private estancias in northern Patagonia, a working cattle ranch that feels far removed from the more developed parts of the region. The drive in alone sets the tone—wide open country, long gravel roads, and a sense that you’re heading somewhere with history behind it.

The lodge itself is part of the original ranch headquarters, with over a century of use behind it. Accommodation is spread across a main lodge wing and a separate guest house set a short walk away. Rooms are simple, comfortable, and in keeping with the character of the estancia rather than overly polished, all with private bathrooms.

Inside, the main house centers around a relaxed living space with a large fireplace, while evenings often begin in a separate bar building before dinner. The layout reflects the way the estancia has evolved over time, with multiple buildings spread across the property rather than a single, purpose-built lodge.

Meals follow a traditional Patagonian style, with a focus on straightforward, well-prepared dishes—grass-fed beef, homemade pastas, and produce sourced locally or from the ranch itself. Asados are a regular part of the week, and dinners tend to be social, informal, and unhurried.

What sets Quemquemtreu apart is the setting and atmosphere. This is a working ranch first, and guests are very much stepping into that environment—gauchos moving through the property, cattle being worked, and a daily rhythm that has little to do with tourism. It’s less about luxury in the traditional sense and more about access, scale, and authenticity.

For anglers, it’s also one of the most strategically positioned lodges in the PRG North program, with extensive private access to the Collón Cura system. For those who value that combination of fishing access and a genuine estancia experience, Quemquemtreu stands out as one of the most distinctive stays in Patagonia.

Tipiliuke Lodge

  • Sleeps 16

Tipiliuke Lodge sits on a vast private estancia just outside San Martín de los Andes, combining a well-run lodge setting with the feel of a working Patagonian ranch. The property is expansive, with open views across the valley and direct access to some of the region’s most productive water, yet the lodge itself remains calm and comfortable without feeling overly formal.

Accommodation is arranged across eight well-proportioned rooms, each with a private bathroom and views out over the surrounding landscape. Rooms are typically configured as double occupancy, offering a comfortable and practical setup for pairs or shared stays.

Inside, the lodge is built around a central living space with a large fireplace, where most evenings naturally come together over a drink and a recap of the day. Meals are a highlight here, with a strong focus on Argentine beef and seasonal ingredients, often prepared as traditional asados alongside more refined dishes. The service is attentive but relaxed, and the rhythm of the lodge feels well established.

Beyond the lodge itself, the wider property adds another layer to the stay. Gauchos move through the ranch on a daily basis, cattle are worked in the background, and it’s not unusual to spend time walking the grounds or riding out between fishing days. For those not on the water, there are options ranging from horseback riding to time in the sauna or simply stepping away for a quieter day.

Overall, Tipiliuke offers a more structured and comfortable estancia experience, with a clear focus on access, ease, and consistency—well suited to anglers who want strong fishing combined with a polished but still authentic base.

The River House

  • Sleeps 12

The River House sits directly on the banks of the Chimehuin River, just outside San Martín de los Andes. While it’s close enough for easy access, the setting feels quiet and self-contained, with the river running just beyond the gardens.

The lodge accommodates up to twelve guests across six private suites, each with its own bathroom. The interiors lean toward a clean, understated style—more contemporary than traditional estancias—while still reflecting the character of the region. It’s a comfortable space to return to, without feeling overly formal.

At the center of the lodge, a spacious living area with a stone fireplace and bar naturally becomes the gathering point in the evenings. Large windows and open grounds keep the connection to the river constant, whether you’re inside or stepping out toward the garden.

Meals are prepared in-house using regional ingredients, with a focus on straightforward, well-executed dishes rather than elaborate presentation. The service is attentive but relaxed, and the overall pace of the lodge fits well with long fishing days.

The River House works well as a base within the PRG North program—particularly for those who want access to a range of rivers while returning each evening to a quieter, more private setting.

Accommodation Gallery

Accommodation Highlights

  • Ensuite bathroom
  • Gourmet chef
  • Hot tub
  • In-house staff
  • Jacuzzi
  • Lake views
  • Luxury suites
  • On-site masseuse
  • Mountain views
  • Panoramic views
  • Riverfront views
  • Walk to fishing
  • Bathtub
  • Bed linen
  • Fire pit
  • Free parking
  • Fresh bread
  • Laundry service
  • Housekeeping service

Most trips begin with an international flight to Buenos Aires (Ezeiza International Airport). From there, anglers take a domestic flight to San Martín de los Andes (Chapelco Airport), the primary gateway to Northern Patagonia’s trout rivers.

Patagonia River Guides meets guests at the airport and arranges transfers to the lodge or estancia where the program begins. Because the fishing itinerary often rotates between different river valleys during the week, travel between lodges is organized as part of the guided program.

Domestic flights within Argentina typically take around two hours from Buenos Aires, making Northern Patagonia relatively straightforward to reach despite its remote setting.

Most travelers visiting Argentina for tourism do not require a visa for short stays, though entry requirements can vary depending on nationality. Visitors should ensure their passport is valid for the duration of their trip and check the latest entry requirements with the appropriate authorities before traveling.

No specific vaccinations are required for travel to the Patagonia regions of Neuquén or Chubut Province. Standard travel vaccinations are generally recommended, and travelers should consult their doctor or travel clinic for the most current health advice before departure.

Travel regulations and health recommendations may change, so guests should verify current visa and vaccination requirements before traveling.

Beyond Fishing Experiences

Northern Patagonia offers plenty to explore beyond the rivers. The nearby town of San Martín de los Andes, set on the shores of Lake Lácar within Lanín National Park, is one of the region’s most scenic mountain towns and a natural gateway to Patagonia’s lakes and forests. Visitors can explore lakeside trails, mountain viewpoints, and the famous Route of the Seven Lakes, which winds through forests and alpine valleys between San Martín and Villa La Angostura.

Closer to the fishing valleys, the landscape itself invites exploration. Many estancias offer opportunities for horseback riding across open ranch country, while quiet gravel roads lead to viewpoints overlooking rivers, lakes, and distant volcanic peaks. Wildlife sightings are common, with condors, upland birds, and native deer often seen in the surrounding hills.

For anglers traveling with partners or simply taking a break from the water, Northern Patagonia provides a relaxed mix of small-town culture, mountain scenery, and outdoor exploration that complements the rhythm of the fishing week.

To find out if this fishing trip is right for you, message Patagonia River Guides.

Additional Activities

  • Birdwatching
  • Cultural activities
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Massage treatments
  • Photography
  • Shooting
  • Trail walking
  • Wildlife watching
  • Wine tasting

Editorial note: Information verified with PRG North and compiled by FishingExplora’s editorial team.

Northern Patagonia offers some of the best trout fishing in South America—clear rivers, wild fish, and the chance of trophy sized trout. Our guides know these waters intimately and focus each day on finding the best fishing.

– Manu, Patagonia River Guides

  • From  $1,250 
  • nightly
  • Per angler (double occupancy)

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Pricing, Insurance & Travel Information

Pricing Information

  • Prices based on double occupancy (sharing a room and a boat/guide).

  • A single-room upgrade may be available.
  • A private boat/guide upgrade may be available.
  • For the latest pricing information, please message your host.

Recovery & Insurance

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Members can book Global rescue cover once logged in.

  • PRG North can advise on both local and international travel options to reach their location.

  • A transport service is available for arrivals and departures to the local airport.
  • You'll need to reach the nearest local airport, where a transport service will be available for your onward journey.

    Depending on the distance between the nearest international and local airports, you may need to take a connecting domestic flight to reach your final destination.

  • International Airport: Ezeiza International (EZR)

The Location

  • Members can view the exact location and travel directions once logged in.

PRG North FAQs

When is the fishing season with PRG North?

The fishing season with PRG North runs from November to May.
Anglers fishing with PRG North can target species which include trout, brook trout, brown trout and rainbow trout. You can explore more about the primary target species by viewing individual species pages below:
Rates for PRG North start from 1,250 USD nightly per angler, based on double occupancy.
The majority of guests traveling by air first fly into Ezeiza International (EZR) — the nearest international gateway.
The nearest regional airport is Chapelco (CPC) airport, approximately minutes from the final destination.

Those drawn to Patagonia’s classic trout rivers who want to fish multiple watersheds in one trip, combining drift boat and walk-and-wade fishing within a flexible guided program moving between estancia lodges over the course of a week.

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