GLACIER KING
Santa Cruz · Argentina
Guanaco River
The Guanaco River Experience
Each year, Chinook Salmon embark on an epic journey from the Atlantic Ocean to the pristine waters of the Guanaco River. This unique fishery boasts a robust population of King Salmon, known for their remarkable abundance and impressive size. Anglers have the opportunity to encounter fish weighing up to 50 pounds or more, with the largest recorded catch being an astounding 90.3 pounds, set in 2018.
Nestled within the breathtaking Glaciers National Park, this secluded location is accessible only by foot or specialized means, offering exclusive dates and spectacular areas for fly fishing enthusiasts. Beyond its impressive fishery, the Guanaco River is a wilderness paradise where anglers are surrounded by rich wildlife, including pumas, condors, guanacos, and more, set against a backdrop of the Andes’ dramatic peaks contrasted by the yellow hues of the plateau.
Stretching for approximately 55 miles, the Guanaco River is a hidden gem in Southern Patagonia. This Andean river, of medium to small size, features cold, crystal-clear waters that change with rainfall patterns in the surrounding highlands. Flowing through the spectacular canyons of the national park and emptying into the vast Lake Viedma, it offers diverse structures and environments that create an unparalleled experience for both anglers and nature lovers alike. While wading is mostly unnecessary, its variety of pools, riffles, and runs provide an ideal setting for swinging flies.
Fishing on the Guanaco River
The Guanaco River is ideally suited for fly fishing due to its size, making it perfect for swinging flies. The fishing program focuses on targeting pools where the salmon rest after their long journey from the ocean. The thrill of this search is a central aspect of the experience. Within the property’s boundaries, anglers have access to over 12 miles of river, free from any fishing pressure. During the prime months of December and January, salmon are fresh from the sea, many of them gleaming with their bright, silver hue. Most fishing beats are conveniently close to the lodge, with the furthest being just a 35-minute drive away using 4×4 vehicles.
A typical day starts with breakfast at 8:00 am, followed by a morning fishing session beginning at 8:30 am until lunch at the ranch at 1:00 pm. After a rest, the afternoon session usually runs from 4:30 pm until 9:00 pm.
Tackle and Technique
We recommend using 12 to 14-foot, 8 to 10-weight two-handed rods for the Guanaco, as the river is easy to cover, allowing for precise control over the swing of your fly. Anglers can also use single-handed rods (8 to 10-wt) as an alternative. Spey rods paired with Skagit lines featuring T-11 and T-14 tips, ranging from 6 to 12 feet long, are ideal for reaching the depths where these fish hold.
Recommended Gear:
- Spey Rods: 12-14 ft, 8-10 wt.
- Spey Lines: Skagit heads (500 to 700 grains, according to rod weight) with a variety of 6 to 12 ft tips (floating, intermediate, slow-sinking, and fast-sinking).
- Reels: Choose reels with a premium braking system that can hold 300 yards of 50 lb gel-spun or 30 lb Dacron backing.
- Single-Hand Rods: 8-10 wt (9 ft).
- Lines: Weight forward floating and intermediate lines; and assorted shooting heads with various sinking rates.
- Flies: King salmon and winter steelhead patterns such as intruders and articulated leeches in colors like black, blue, fuchsia, and red work best in the glacier-colored waters.
- Leader/Tippet: Fluorocarbon or monofilament tippet material in the 25-40 lbs range is recommended. It’s always good to have extra gear on hand.
When to Visit
The fishing season runs from December 1st through mid-February, 2024/5, with a maximum capacity of just six guests at any given time. This limited availability ensures a personalized and unpressured fishing experience.
What’s Included
- Lodging at Estancia La Sofía.
- Round-trip transfers from El Calafate (FTE).
- All meals, snacks, and drinks (including house wine and beer).
- Guided fishing days.
What’s Not Included
- Flights, hotel accommodations en route.
- Fishing tackle (available for rent on-site).
- Gratuities/tips.
Itineraries
Full Week (6 Days / 5 Nights)
- Day 1: Arrival at El Calafate (FTE) and transfer to the lodge (approx. 2 hr 45 min drive). Warm-up fishing session at the home pool.
- Day 2-5: Full fishing days, exploring the varied beats of the Guanaco River.
- Day 6: Half-day fishing and return to El Calafate with an option to fly to Buenos Aires that same evening.
Half Week (4 Days / 3 Nights)
- Day 1: Arrival at El Calafate and transfer to the ranch. Warm-up fishing session.
- Day 2-3: Full fishing days targeting prime salmon pools.
- Day 4: Half-day fishing and return to El Calafate.
Accommodations
Your base during the adventure is Estancia La Sofía, a top-notch lodge that provides comfort and exclusivity. The lodge has four rooms, accommodating up to six anglers per week, each with a private bathroom and an option for single-room occupancy. With 24-hour electricity, internet, and a dining room offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape, guests can relax and recharge in style. Meals are prepared by an in-house chef, who crafts traditional Patagonian dishes to satisfy every palate.