Patagonia Fly Fishing

Experience world-class fly fishing in the legendary rivers and lakes of Argentine Patagonia.

At Patagonia Drift, we specialize in fully guided fly fishing adventures across Northern and Southern Patagonia. Whether you’re looking for a single-day float trip, a comfortable lodge-based program, or a remote multi-day river expedition, we create customized experiences designed around your goals and fishing style.

Fish crystal-clear rivers for wild brown and rainbow trout with experienced local guides who know these waters inside and out. From the famous Limay, Collón Curá, and Caleufú rivers to the pristine lakes of Nahuel Huapi National Park, every trip combines exceptional fishing, breathtaking scenery, and genuine Patagonian hospitality.

We Are Patagonia Drift — A Father & Son Guiding Team

At Patagonia Drift, guiding isn’t just what we do — it’s who we are.

I’m Mauro Ochoa, and I founded Patagonia Drift over 20 years ago, after many seasons guiding fly fishers through the rivers and lakes of Argentine Patagonia — and later, the legendary waters of Norway. What started as a one-man project grew into something much more meaningful when my son Eliseo joined me. Together, we’ve transformed Patagonia Drift into a true family-run guiding company based in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina.

GUIDED FLY FISHING TRIPS

From intimate mountain streams to legendary trout rivers, Patagonia Drift offers fully guided float trips, walk-and-wade adventures, lodge programs, and wilderness river expeditions for anglers of every skill level.

LIMAY RIVER FLOAT (Full-Day Guided Trip)

Home to some of Patagonia's largest migratory brown and rainbow trout, the Limay River is one of Argentina's premier fly fishing destinations. During the spring opener and again in autumn, trophy trout migrate from the lake into the river, giving anglers the opportunity to hook fish exceeding 10 pounds in remarkably clear water. Throughout the summer, prolific hatches provide outstanding dry fly fishing, while nymphing and streamer fishing remain productive all season long

FISHING THE LAKES (Full-Day Guided Trip)

Escape into the pristine waters of Nahuel Huapi National Park, where remote lakes such as Mascardi, Hess, Roca, Fonck, and Guillelmo offer outstanding trout fishing in complete solitude. Fish from our drift boats while casting streamers, dry flies, and nymphs to wild brown, brook and rainbow trout cruising rocky shorelines, submerged structure, and drop-offs. It's a unique combination of spectacular scenery, crystal-clear water, and unforgettable fishing.

RIVER EXPEDITIONS (Multi-Day Tips)

Join Patagonia Drift on an unforgettable multi-day fly fishing expedition through the heart of Northern Patagonia. Our fully outfitted float trips take you deep into the untouched wilderness of the Limay, Collón Curá, Aluminé, and Caleufú rivers—legendary fisheries renowned for their beauty, abundant trout populations, and incredible diversity of water. Spend your days drifting world-class rivers, fishing productive runs and riffles, then relax each evening in comfortable riverside camps beneath Patagonia's unforgettable night sky.

LODGE PROGRAMS (Multi-Day Tips)

Enjoy the perfect balance of exceptional trout fishing and premium accommodations. Our lodge-based programs on the Limay and Collón Curá rivers are designed for anglers who appreciate world-class fishing during the day and outstanding comfort, cuisine, and hospitality each evening. Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or a private group, these programs provide an unforgettable Patagonian fly fishing experience.

Available Dates 2026-2027.

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Fishing season

Fishing Season in Patagonia

Patagonia Drift

The fly fishing season in Argentine Patagonia runs from November through May, with each month offering unique opportunities.

Early season features aggressive post-winter trout and excellent streamer fishing. Summer brings reliable dry fly hatches, technical sight fishing, and comfortable weather. Autumn is famous for large migratory brown trout moving into the rivers, creating some of the year’s most exciting fishing.

No matter when you visit, our guides will help you make the most of the conditions.

Testimonials

BRILLIANT EXPERIENCE - DON'T LOOK ANY FURTHER Mauro is the best guide I have ever had the pleasure of meeting- great technical knowledge, excellent drift boat, good food, excellent hospitality and all round great chap. I couldn't recommend Patagonia Drift and Mauro more highly.
Sven
Australia.
PATAGONIA DRIFT IS TOP SHELF Mauro's a great guide, oarsman, sommelier, cook, and general all around guy. My and my buddy travelled all the way to Patagonia to spend the week with him, and we're glad we did. Mauro's knowledge of the Limay is excellent. For the best chance to get the big ones, you're going to have to get deep with heavy lines, shooting heads, sink tips, etc. I had zero familiarity with that type of bigger gear, but Mauro helped me through it. By the end I was able to shoot the line out into the deep water seams necessary to reach the big fish. My buddy caught the biggest fish, a 29" brown! Overall, the experience was great, a memory of a lifetime.
Thomas Y.
Philadelphia, USA.
TOP NOTCH The entire family had a great day on the water. The guides worked hard to put us on fish. They spoke english well. Their equipment was high end. They were very accommodating on waiting until the day before we arrived to pick the best river to fish based on conditions. River side lunch of steak over an open fire with a bottle of wine was a nice treat.
Wonderlust
Denver, USA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not at all.

Whether you’re completely new to fly fishing or an experienced angler, our guides tailor each trip to your skill level.

If you’re a beginner, we’ll teach you everything you need to know—from casting and fly selection to reading the water—so you can enjoy every day on the river with confidence.

Experienced anglers will appreciate our local knowledge and guidance on Patagonia’s most productive waters.

We organize our trips for solo anglers, couples, friends, and larger private groups.

To provide the highest level of service, we maintain a maximum ratio of two anglers per guide and drift boat.

If you’re traveling with a larger group, additional guides and boats will be arranged.

Patagonia is home to healthy populations of wild brown, brook and rainbow trout. Depending on the river, season, and water conditions, anglers may enjoy dry fly fishing, nymphing, streamer fishing, and the opportunity to catch trophy-sized migratory brown trout exceeding 10 pounds.

That depends on what you’re looking for.

If you’re visiting Bariloche with family or have limited time, our guided day trips are an excellent option.

If you’d like to explore several rivers while enjoying premium accommodations each evening, our lodge-based programs provide the perfect balance between comfort and adventure.

For anglers seeking complete immersion in Patagonia’s wilderness, our multi-day float expeditions offer an unforgettable experience, camping beside remote rivers and fishing water that few people ever see.

If you’re unsure which option best fits your expectations, we’ll gladly help you choose.

The fly fishing season runs from November through May, and every month offers unique opportunities.

Early season features aggressive trout and excellent streamer fishing.

During the summer months, warm weather and abundant insect hatches create outstanding dry fly fishing.

Autumn is famous for its migratory brown trout and consistently produces some of the largest fish of the season.

Rather than recommending one specific month, we recommend the time that best matches your fishing goals.

Both.

Depending on the destination and fishing conditions, your day may include floating from a comfortable drift boat, wading productive runs, or combining both approaches.

We’ll choose the method that provides the best fishing opportunities.

Absolutely.

Many of our guests travel a long way to reach Patagonia, so we’re happy to assist with every aspect of your visit.

We can recommend hotels, arrange airport transfers, organize additional sightseeing activities, and help coordinate your itinerary before and after your fishing days.

Our goal is to make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.


Patagonian weather can change quickly, so we recommend bringing clothing suitable for a variety of conditions.

A suggested packing list includes:

  • Layered outdoor clothing
  • Waterproof rain jacket
  • Warm fleece or insulated jacket
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Sunscreen and lip balm

If you need waders, boots, or other fly fishing equipment, we’re happy to provide them. Just let us know in advance, and we’ll have everything ready when you arrive.


One of the highlights of every Patagonia Drift trip is the food.

Whether enjoying a riverside lunch or dinner at camp, meals feature fresh local ingredients and traditional Argentine flavors.

Expect grilled meats, homemade dishes, fresh salads, excellent wines, and delicious coffee and chocolate.

We’re also happy to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements with advance notice.


Accommodation depends on the program you’ve selected.

Day-trip guests usually stay in hotels around Bariloche.

Our lodge programs feature carefully selected properties known for their comfort, excellent food, and warm hospitality.

During river expeditions, you’ll stay in spacious riverside camps equipped with comfortable tents, cots, quality sleeping bags, hot meals, and all necessary camping equipment.


Most guests arrive through San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC), which has excellent domestic connections from Buenos Aires.

We’ll gladly help you plan the most convenient flights and arrival schedule.


Yes.

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip cancellation, baggage delays, and travel interruptions.

International travel always involves variables outside anyone’s control, and insurance provides valuable peace of mind.