GLACIER KING
Santa Cruz · Argentina
Río Caterina & Río Guanaco
Patagonia’s Ultimate Giant King Salmon Fishing Experience
Where Giants Roam: The Untamed Waters of Río Caterina & Río Guanaco
For those seeking the pinnacle of Atlantic King Salmon fishing, Patagonia offers two of the most exclusive and untouched fisheries on the planet—Rio Caterina and Rio Guanaco. Nestled within the awe-inspiring landscapes of Los Glaciares National Park, these rivers provide an unparalleled angling adventure in one of the last truly wild frontiers.
Each river boasts legendary runs of King Salmon, known for their size, strength, and tenacity. Whether casting in the glacial waters of the Caterina River at Estancia Cristina or exploring the remote beats of the Guanaco River at Estancia La Sofía, anglers will find themselves in a pristine wilderness teeming with wildlife and world-class fishing opportunities.
Río Caterina – Estancia Cristina
A Remote Paradise for the Ultimate Angling Challenge
Hidden within the majestic Andean landscape of Los Glaciares National Park, the Caterina River remains one of the most exclusive fisheries in the world. This remote sanctuary, accessible only through Glacier King Lodge, offers anglers the rare opportunity to battle King Salmon in an untouched wilderness.
From late December through mid-April, the river becomes a battleground where anglers face off against massive runs of these formidable fish. The peak season from January to mid-March sees an influx of King Salmon weighing between 30-45 lbs, with true giants reaching 60-70 lbs. The largest recorded catch in 2018 was an estimated 90 lbs—a true testament to the unmatched potential of these waters.
Itinerary
Full Week Program:
- Saturday: Arrival in El Calafate.
- Sunday: Transfer to Estancia Cristina (4-hour scenic journey), followed by an afternoon fishing session.
- Monday – Friday: Two daily fishing sessions, rotating across prime beats of the river.
- Saturday: Final morning fishing session before departing for El Calafate.
Season: January 10 – March 20
Maximum Anglers Per Week: 6
Included:
- 6 nights at Estancia Cristina
- Round-trip transfers from El Calafate
- All meals and beverages
- Expert guiding and fishing access
Not Included:
- Flights
- Fishing tackle
- Gratuities and tips
- Fishing license
Accommodations
Estancia Cristina is part of the exclusive Best of Patagonia (BOP) program, offering a perfect blend of rustic elegance and comfort. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Andes, this historic lodge provides guests with warm, inviting rooms, gourmet meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In addition to world-class fishing, non-anglers can enjoy off-road excursions, hiking, and horseback riding.
Río Guanaco – Estancia La Sofía
Fly Fishing in One of Patagonia’s Last Great Frontiers
For those seeking an even more remote and exclusive King Salmon fishing experience, the Guanaco River delivers an extraordinary adventure. Located deep within Southern Patagonia, this river is home to some of the largest and most aggressive salmon in the world. The annual Chinook migration brings fish from the depths of the Atlantic into these untouched waters, providing anglers with unforgettable encounters.
With fish regularly exceeding 50 lbs and a record-breaking 90.3 lb catch in 2018, the Guanaco River offers a thrilling test of skill, endurance, and patience. Surrounded by dramatic Andean peaks and the untamed Patagonian steppe, this is more than a fishing trip—it’s an immersion into the wild.
The River & Fishing Experience
Stretching for 55 miles, the Guanaco River meanders through canyons and vast plateaus, providing a variety of pools, riffles, and deep runs perfect for fly fishing. Exclusive access to over 12 miles of river ensures an unpressured angling experience in a setting that feels truly untouched. The ideal season runs from December through mid-February, when fresh salmon, shimmering in ocean-bright silver, surge upriver.
Anglers will find the Guanaco River ideal for swinging flies, with Spey and single-handed rods proving most effective. Recommended setups include 12-14 ft, 8-10 wt rods paired with Skagit heads (500-700 grains) and a selection of sinking tips to reach the depths where these giants lurk.
Itinerary
Full Week Program:
- Day 1: Arrival in El Calafate, followed by a scenic 2 hr 45 min transfer to Estancia La Sofía. Afternoon warm-up fishing session.
- Days 2-5: Full days of fishing, rotating between prime beats of the river.
- Day 6: Morning fishing session before departing for El Calafate, with an optional evening flight to Buenos Aires.
Season: December 1 – Mid-February
Maximum Anglers Per Week: 6
Included:
- Luxury lodging at Estancia La Sofía
- Round-trip transfers from El Calafate
- All meals, snacks, and beverages (including house wine and beer)
- Expert-guided fishing
Not Included:
- Flights
- Fishing tackle (available for rent on-site)
- Gratuities and tips
Accommodations
Estancia La Sofía offers an intimate and exclusive lodging experience, accommodating a maximum of six anglers per week. Each of the four beautifully appointed rooms comes with a private bathroom, ensuring a comfortable stay. The estancia provides 24-hour electricity, internet access, and a dining area with panoramic views of Patagonia’s vast landscapes. Guests will enjoy exquisite Patagonian cuisine, expertly prepared by an in-house chef, paired with Argentina’s finest wines.
