The region surrounding Esquel offers some of the finest trout fishing in Patagonia if not the world, with a huge variety of waters and fishing styles to suit every angler’s preferences. For those who enjoy a truly diverse week on the water, it is hard to beat the combination of El Encuentro Lodge and Brook Trout Base Camp.
Both lodges are owned and operated by the same family and are typically offered as a combined package, creating an outstanding and varied fishing experience. The itinerary includes three days of fishing at each lodge, with a scenic transfer between the two midway through the week. The journey takes approximately two and a half hours, passing through some of Patagonia’s spectacular landscapes.
From crystal-clear spring creeks and classic freestone rivers to remote lakes and hidden mountain streams, the remarkable diversity of waters and scenery provides an unforgettable experience. Whether you are an experienced fly angler or relatively new to the sport, the range of fishing opportunities will both challenge and inspire.
El Encuentro Lodge
El Encuentro Lodge sits on the banks of the Río Futaleufú, surrounded by Andes scenery and world-class wild trout fishing. Its riverside location lets anglers begin or end their fishing day right at the lodge. The area offers dozens of excellent fisheries, both public and private with the Futaleufú known for strong numbers of large rainbow and brown trout. Guides know the river’s hidden side channels, deep pools, and undercut banks, ensuring productive days whether wading or floating.
Beyond the Futaleufú, guests can explore a wide variety of nearby waters, including the Río Frey and lower Río Corcovado. The lodge has been family-owned for more than 40 years, and has three bed rooms in the main house and two in a nearby cottage, accommodating up to ten guests. Meals showcase organic produce, local meats, fresh-baked bread, and excellent Argentine wines, with riverside lunches and a traditional Patagonian asado shared with the El Encuentro family and guides.
Brook Trout Base Camp
Anglers have access to all waters in the area including the lakes and small streams of the Engaño and Lago Vintter watersheds, and the lakes, spring creeks and rivers in the Rio Pico area. Combining the waters of the Engaño and the Rio Corcovado system, anglers can expect to encounter strong populations of brook trout, with an average weight of about three pounds, and the possibility of hooking a ten pound plus trophy brook trout. The Rio Corcovado flows out of Lago Vittner both of which hold resident and migratory populations of large rainbows. The Rio Pico area is known for its spring creeks and small lakes holding large trout. There are also several smaller freestone rivers like the Rio Pico, Rio Pampa and Rio Nilson that offer fun walk wade fishing. There are few other anglers in the region so visitors here expect a very peaceful fishing experience.
Brook Trout Base Camp offers rustic yet elegant glamping in five casitas steps from the water, each with twin or king beds, private bath, hot water, electric lights, screened windows, and a propane heater. Meals use local ingredients and are served in a dining tent with sofas and wood stoves. Guests can enjoy Argentine Malbec and appetizers by the outdoor fire at sunset.
When to go
Early Season: November and December
When the season opens in November, Patagonia feels like it’s waking up from a deep winter sleep. Rivers swell with snowmelt, valleys glow with fresh vegetation, and trout that haven’t seen flies in months are eager and aggressive. This is a time of rebirth, ideal for anglers who enjoy exploring dynamic conditions.
Mid Season: Late December to February
If you’ve heard stories of Patagonia’s legendary dry-fly fishing, this is the season they’re referring to. From Christmas through late February, the region transforms into a terrestrial paradise. Long, warm days bring beetles, ants, and—most famously—hoppers by the millions.
Late Season: March
By March, the frenzy of peak summer gives way to a quieter, more thoughtful season. The days shorten slightly, night time temperatures drop, and trout settle into a steady, predictable rhythm. Many anglers consider March Patagonia’s “sweet spot”—a blend of summer’s surface action and autumn’s technical precision.
2027 Cost:
US$8,400 per person for shared room and shared guide
US$10,920 per person for single room and single guide
Includes: 4 nights & 3 days fishing at El Encuentro Lodge, 3 nights & days fishing at Brook Trout Base Camp, transfers to and from Esquel/lodges, transfer between lodges, all alcoholic beverages (open bar)
Excludes: international and domestic flights, fishing licences, gratuities, accommodation and arrangements in Buenos Aires
Click HERE to view our Argentina and Chile brochure
For more information abut El Encuentro Lodge or fishing in Argentina in general, please contact Olly Thompson or phone 01980 847 389.
