Estancia Despedida

Small, unassuming and strategically located on the best pools of the world’s most prolific sea trout system A longtime Fly Water Travel favorite, Estancia Despedida embodies many of the characteristics we value most in a lodge: a small number of weekly guests, colorful handson owner operators, and great Argentine guides with a genuine desire to spend long hours on the water. Limited to six anglers per week, Despedida is situated close to their fishing grounds, which the locals refer to as “corazon del rio,” or “the heart of the river.” In this section of the Rio Grande, sandwiched conveniently between the Rio Grande’s two key tributaries, Ona and Menendez, the question is never “if” there are fish in the pools but rather “how many, how big, and how willing.”

Estancia Despedida is a family-run operation with an intimate atmosphere that permeates every aspect of the place. With a very high return rate, guests at Despedida appreciate the incredibly warm and genuine hospitality that comes from the Lajous family and their dedicated team of professionals. The most distant pools on the ranch are only minutes from the lodge, minimizing drive times and maximizing time spent on the water. For hardcore anglers who appreciate long hours on the water, the Rio Grande’s highest catch rates, and a great value, Despedida delivers! Rate: $6,795 per person for a 7 night/6 day package

The magic hour begins on the incomparable Rio Grande. Photo: Ken Morrish