The 2025 Rio Grande season has come to a close and while conditions were far from easy—low water, bright skies, and technical drifts defined the season—both Kau Tapen Lodge and Villa María Lodge delivered where it mattered.
Kau Tapen marked a milestone with 40 years on the Río Grande. Four decades in, the lodge remains a reference point for sea-run brown trout fishing—and continues to evolve with the river, adapting season after season.
At Villa María, the river rewarded patience and precision. The fish that came to hand were outstanding—heavy, clean, and hard-fighting sea trout that showed up throughout the season, including the top fish of the year: a 28-pound chrome hen.
End of season report – Reflections from Kau Tapen and Villa María Lodges
These thoughts from the guides on the ground paint an excellent picture of the season just finished:
As the 2025 season wraps on the Río Grande, we’re taking a moment to reflect on a year that tested us—and reminded us why this river remains one of the most compelling sea trout fisheries on earth.
Unusually low water shaped the entire season at both Kau Tapen and Villa María. With little rainfall and steady Patagonian winds, the river ran low and clear for most of the season. Conditions demanded a technical approach—long leaders, small flies, and pinpoint presentations. Fortunately, our guide teams rose to the challenge, delivering consistent action from January through April.
At Kau Tapen, early runs produced steady results, especially in the mornings, when sea-run browns pushed into classic holding water. The Menendez River delivered again late in the season, with some of the largest fish of the year showing up in March and April. Even in a lean-water year, anglers who put in the work were rewarded with chrome-bright trophies and memorable moments.
This year also marked a milestone—Kau Tapen’s 40th anniversary. As the first sea trout lodge on the Río Grande, and still one of the most respected names in the game, the lodge celebrated four decades of wild fish, shared stories, and the enduring friendships that make each season special.
Further downstream at Villa María, the river gave up fewer fish overall—but the caliber was exceptional. From early January through March, small nymphs, floating lines, and clean presentations led to some unforgettable eats. The season’s standout? A 28-pound hen that reminded us just how powerful this fishery can be.
Throughout the season, conditions changed daily—cool mornings, wind shifts, and hard-earned fish defined the rhythm. But every challenge came with its reward: a pulled loop, a headshake in the current, and the kind of connection that keeps anglers coming back.
Looking ahead, we’re optimistic. The Andean snowpack is building steadily, and all signs point to a return of more favourable water levels in 2026. With healthy fish in the system and our guide teams ready, we’re expecting a stronger, more dynamic season next year.
Argentina availability 2026
If you are considering a trip to Argentina next year we still have wonderful availability for the 2026 sea trout season on the Rio Grande and Rio Gallegos. Full details can be found HERE.
For more information on fishing the Rio Grande or elsewhere in Argentina please contact Olly Thompson or phone 01980 847 389
Click HERE to view our Argentine and Chile brochure.