Why Bariloche is a fly fishing destination
Trout are not native to Patagonia: they were introduced in the early twentieth century and found an ideal home in the cold, clean, well-oxygenated rivers and lakes of the Andes. Today the region around Bariloche, with Lake Nahuel Huapi, the Limay river, the Manso river and dozens of mountain lakes, is one of the best-known fly fishing destinations in South America. The most sought-after species are rainbow trout, brown trout and brook trout, and in some waters landlocked salmon.
Bariloche's great advantage is variety: within a few kilometres there are big rivers to fish by wading or from a boat, mountain streams, river mouths and lakes you can explore by boat or kayak. That lets you tailor the outing to your level, from a first casting lesson to full days chasing big trout.
When is the fishing season
In Argentine Patagonia the general sport fishing season runs from roughly 1 November to 1 May, under regulations shared by the Patagonian provinces and the National Parks administration. Some waters have their own dates: on Lake Nahuel Huapi, for example, the season has opened on 1 October in recent years and closed at the end of May, and there are waters where you can fish all year under special rules. Dates and open waters are published each season, so check the current regulations before you travel.
Within the season, each period has its own character:
- November and December: opening, rivers sometimes running high with snowmelt, and good activity in lakes and river mouths.
- January and February: high summer, long days, insect hatches and dry fly fishing, including beetle imitations and other terrestrials.
- March and April: autumn, fewer anglers, colours in the forest and brown trout more active before spawning.
The fishing licence
To fish you need a valid sport fishing licence, personal and non-transferable. You can get it online or from authorised shops, and there are different categories for provincial residents, Argentine residents and foreigners, by the day, week or season. Neuquén, Río Negro, Chubut and the National Parks work with a coordinated licence scheme; even so, when you buy it, check which jurisdictions it covers.
Always carry your licence (printed or on your phone) together with an ID: park rangers and inspectors can ask for them at any time. A Chilean licence is not valid in Argentina, nor the other way round.
Catch-and-release and other rules
Much of the fishing in the region is catch-and-release, and on many rivers and streams it is mandatory. In National Park waters, in addition:
- native species, such as perch or Patagonian silverside, must always be released;
- with fly gear you may use at most a dropper rig of two flies, each with a single barbless hook or a hook with the barb flattened;
- fishing is only allowed during daylight hours.
In the lakes where you may keep fish, the daily bag limits per person are very low. If you are not sure of the rules for a particular water, release the fish: you will never be wrong.
To release a trout properly: wet your hands before touching it, use a rubber net, keep it out of the water as little as possible, do not squeeze it or touch its gills, and hold it facing the current until it swims away on its own.
Where to fish near Bariloche
- Boca del Limay: where the Limay river flows out of Lake Nahuel Huapi, a few kilometres from town. A classic at the start of the season that draws anglers from all over the world.
- Limay river: a wide, powerful river fished by wading in some sections and by float trip, drifting downstream in a boat with the guide on the oars.
- Manso river: south of Bariloche, through forest, with sections of varying difficulty and lakes along its course.
- Mountain lakes: Gutiérrez, Mascardi, Steffen or Guillelmo (where motorboats are not allowed) are ideal for fishing from the shore, from a boat or by kayak.
- Further afield: the Villa Traful area and the rivers around Junín de los Andes, in Neuquén province, are multi-day destinations for those who want to go deeper.
You can see fishing, boat and kayak trips by local guides in the fishing and boat trips in Bariloche section.
A guided fishing day
A fishing day usually starts early, with a pick-up from your accommodation and the drive to the river or lake. Depending on the water, you fish by wading, on a float trip or from a boat, with a break for lunch on the bank. Many guides provide full gear (rod, reel, flies, waders and boots) and teach complete beginners to cast. There are also half-day outings, very useful as a first taste.
A local guide's value goes beyond taking you to the spot: they know which sections are open, how the river changes with the flow, which flies work each week and where the fish hold depending on the time of day. Ask whether they are licensed as a fishing guide in the jurisdiction where you will fish, what the trip includes and whether the licence is your responsibility.
On Trekonda you can write directly to guides in Bariloche to plan your day, with no middleman commission.
What to bring
- Breathable waders and wading boots, or quick-drying trousers for hot summer days.
- Layered clothing and a good windproof jacket: the Patagonian wind plays a leading role.
- Polarised sunglasses, a cap and sunscreen.
- A 5 or 6 weight rod, enough for most rivers and lakes; for lakes and streamers, a sinking line.
- Pliers to flatten barbs and remove hooks.
- Your fishing licence and an ID.
Safety on the water
Big rivers such as the Limay have strong currents and very cold water: wade with a staff, tighten your wader belt and do not take risks in sections you do not know. On the lakes, the wind tends to rise in the afternoon and creates waves that are dangerous for small boats and kayaks; go out early and always wear a life jacket. If you fish on your own, tell someone where you are going.
Responsible fishing
The invasive alga didymo is present in Patagonian rivers and spreads on wet gear. Before moving from one river to another, check, clean and dry your boots, waders and lines. Take your cut lines and rubbish home, and respect private access to the shore. To keep exploring, the fishing and kayaking in Bariloche section brings together offers from local guides.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need experience to fly fish in Bariloche?
No. Many guides offer beginner trips with a casting lesson included. Lakes and some calm sections are ideal for getting started.
Can I keep any trout?
It depends on the water. On many rivers release is mandatory, and some lakes allow a very small bag limit. Check the regulations or ask your guide before keeping a fish.
What is the best month to fish?
Each period has its appeal: November for the opening, January and February for dry fly fishing, and March and April for big brown trout and fewer people.
Where do I buy a fishing licence?
Online or from authorised shops in Bariloche. Choose the right category (provincial resident, Argentine resident or foreigner) and the length of your trip.