Fly Fishing Patagonia has been a long held dream from me and last week it was finally time to realise it. I ventured to the Chilean side of Northern Patagonia where I rented a car in Coyhaique a great base for fly fishing exploration. However, the area around Coyhaique is heavily used by agriculture and therefore there is not much vegetation.
However, I found river that suited my needs further North and South. What striked me about fly fishing in Chile was the amazing hopper action around midday – just amazing! As usual for ExpediTom travels, this was an independent mission searching for places to fish without guides or lodges in order to keep the tight budget. Although there are many water to fish, access isn’t always easy. Most lands in Chile are private and fenced so you are not allowed to cross it unless you ask for permission. Speaking Spanish would have been extremely helpful at this point. Nonetheless, there is usually access from bridges and the river banks are public land. If you have any questions feel free to ask :)
Gear used:
Tamron 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 travel lense
Circular polarisation filter 62mm
Jeff Williams
Hi Tom,
Great vid. I’m planning a trip to this part of Chile. Would you mind sharing the name of the river in the vid and the approximate area where you accessed the river?
Thanks,
Tom
Hi Jeff,
thanks for your comment. I purposefully refrain from naming place names, unless an assignment requires me to do so. I’ve just been reassured to do so when I came across a newly put up fence at a popular spot. If you head to Cohaique, make sure to ask for directions in the local fishing store. They will point you in the right direction.
All the best and tight lines,
Tom