Our quest to find new fly fishing experiences to introduce to our clients is an ongoing (and very enjoyable) part of our life here at Aardvark McLeod. We’ve recently made some great additions to our portfolio, spanning both the salt and freshwater arenas. Here’s a quick round up, and as ever the team is on hand to chat through the details if you’d like more information.
WHAT’S NEW SALTWATER
Port Gentil tarpon experience, Gabon – Technical tarpon
This technical tarpon fishery in the heart of Africa offers anglers the chance to explore a network of lagoons, channels, and open ocean in pursuit of tarpon. It’s tarpon fishing in its purest form, quiet water and close-range encounters from the bow of custom-built skiffs. Accessed from Port Gentil, the fishery is set in a vast and untouched wilderness of river systems, coastal lagoons, mangrove forests and open ocean.
Xcalak paradise fly Fishing Lodge, Mexico – Great choice for a grand slam
World class flats fishing meets laid back luxury at this remote oceanfront haven on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Pristine waters teem with permit, bonefish, tarpon and snook, and taking a shot at a coveted grand slam can often be achieved within 20 minutes of leaving the boat dock. Although a relatively new lodge, the operation is centred around a long standing and experienced guide team.
Weipa, West Cape York, Queensland, Australia – Robust, varied uncrowded saltwater fishery
This vast fishery offers more than 100 miles of coastline and includes 11 rivers and river flats. Anglers can often encounter over 30 species over the course of a week long trip here. The flats fishing is excellent, with the prized Indo-pacific permit endemic to the area along with the occasional large GT. There are tuna and mackerel close inshore, trevally, queenfish, and barramundi in the river mouths, and coral trout, red bass and mangrove jacks around the reefs.
WHAT’S NEW FRESHWATER
Estancia Chochoy Mallin, Argentina – Lightly fished corner of Patagonia
Our friends at Dreamwaters Angling have been busy with a re-brand and the addition of two new operations. The first is Estancia Chochoy Mallin, a traditional Patagonian Ranch with more than 100 years of history, which has been transformed into a boutique fishing lodge. Crossed by three crystal clear rivers, the Reni Leuvu, Trocoman and Nireco, along with access to many spring creeks and nearby waters, it is a destination offering variety, privacy and authentic local hospitality. Visiting anglers can fish for wild brown, rainbow and brook trout. The fishing is mostly dry fly, nymph and streamer while wading the crystal clear rivers and spring creeks. Float/boat fishing is possible on the larger rivers.
Fly Fishing Buenos Aires, Argentina – City daytrip
Dreamwaters’ second new opening is Fly Fishing Buenos Aires which offers anglers access to excellent dorado fishing just one hour from Buenos Aires. It’s a great option if you want an add on to sea trout fishing in Patagonia. We can arrange half or full day trips with English speaking guides who can show you the best of the Paraná Delta and Rio de la Plata. As well as golden dorado, you’ll find wolf fish, vampire fish and boga in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Chime Lodge, Argentina – Patagonian gem
This Patagonian gem fuses old world charm with modern fly fishing indulgence. Fishermen will find superb trout fishing on the nearby Colon Cura and Alumine Rivers as well as on trophy lakes such as Huechulafquen, Paimun, Tromen and Curruhe. Experienced guides know these waters inside out and will offer instruction to anglers learning the basics or in need of a tune up. They are equally well versed in the art of a long riverside lunch!
Bella Sofia Lodge, Argentina – Revered Rio Gallegos
Bella Sofia Lodge provides private access to over 40 miles of the Rio Gallegos along with 14 miles of the Gallegos Chico spring creek. Fishing just six rods a week, there’s plenty of fresh water to enjoy – in fact, few other lodges in the region can claim to provide around six miles of water per angler. The fishing can be challenging and double handed rods provide the best chance to hook one of these lively specimens which average nine pounds.
Echoes of Patagonia, Chile – remote trout
If trout fishing in beautiful natural settings is on your list, then Echoes of Patagonia in Chile ticks the box. With access to a great diversity of waters including deep lakes, still lagoons and access to remote rivers, there is plenty of opportunity to cast to large wild trout. Both boat and shore based fishing is possible here alongside guides who are committed to providing great days on the water.
Orinoco River Lodge, Columbia – jungle adventure
Untouched fishing spots on the Orinoco and Vichada Rivers await anglers travelling to this 14,000-hectare pristine jungle sanctuary in the Colombia’s Amazon rainforest. With eight exclusive lagoons and several rivers to choose from, fishermen can target trophy peacock bass and elusive payara while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Away from the fishing, the reserve is teeming with wildlife including capybaras, jaguars and myriad bird species.
Auberge San Carlo, Italy – mountain streams
Head to this charming spot in Italy’s Ligurian Alps and you’ll find brown, marbled and brook trout in the rivers and streams that cross the high mountain valleys. We can suggest a range of itineraries for anglers while non-anglers will find plenty to enjoy.
If you would like further information on any of the destinations featured in our What’s New blog please contact Peter McLeod or Olly Thompson or call the office on +44(0)1980 847389.
