Few names in fly fishing inspire as much respect as the Río Grande. Since 1984, Kau Tapen Lodge has been the benchmark on this legendary river, the very first lodge to open its doors on the banks of Tierra del Fuego’s sea trout mecca. For decades, the Grande has held its place as the world’s premier destination for sea-run brown trout—fish of unmatched size, strength, and consistency.
At Kau Tapen, anglers enjoy exclusive access to more than 20 miles of the Middle Río Grande, fishing both banks, as well as 20 miles of the Río Menéndez, its most productive tributary. If the Grande is the standard for trophy sea trout, the Menéndez is its perfect counterpart: intimate, technical, and arguably the best single-handed sea trout river on the planet.
Together, these rivers form a fishery without equal. From broad lower reaches to narrow upper beats, from double-handed swings to single-handed precision, every pool holds the possibility of a lifetime fish.
Careful water management allows the rotation of beats daily and the ability to seek out the best conditions—ensuring anglers fish fresh water and where sea trout are most active.
Last season once again delivered unforgettable moments, with trout well over 20 pounds landed and released in both rivers.
Here’s the full report:
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 calibre 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.
Availability at Kau Tapen and Villa Maria (along with other Argentina sea trout opportunities) can be found here. If you would like more information on these two lodges or fishing in Argentina in general, please contact Olly Thompson or phone 01980 847 389.
This video gives a great glimpse into the spectacular fishing here.
