Best lodges EST.
2018
Recommended
fishing LODGES and destinations aroundtheplanet
®
www.francovivarelli.com
"Travelling is a door through which one leaves reality to penetrate into an unexplored reality, which seems like a dream" Guy De Maupassant
H2O BESTLODGES
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4 Italian flyfishing tours
10 Patagonia El Rincon Lodge
16 Alaska Ata Lodge Alagnak River
22 Ireland Great Fishing Houses
24 Brazil Untamed Angling
34 Denmark Fishing Lodge
40 Iceland
46 Argentina Estancia Laguna Verde
52 Patagonia Estancia Rio Pelke
58 Russia Kola Peninsula Chavanga River
64 Argentina Dorado in clear water
70 Slovenia Hotel Zlata Ribica
76 The Bahamas
82 Greenland
88 Kamchatka Icha River
94 England
100 Argentina Golden Dorado River Cruiser
106 South Mexico
BESTLODGES bestlodges.net h2oflyfishing.com
This is a short list of fly-fishing destinations recommended by the editorial staff of H2O magazine. They are some of the most famous fly-fishing destinations that we have personally experienced and tested, therefore we can confidently recommend that the lodges and locations are managed by reliable and competent professionals. You can directly contact the lodge owners, fishing guides and reception staff without intermediaries. We are always willing and happy to give you advice on the right equipment and best fishable periods to cast your flies. Giorgio Cavatorti
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H2O BESTLODGES
Italian flyfishing tours
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info@italianflyfishingtours.com
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H2O BESTLODGES
Italy
Fishing tourism in Italy is a relatively recent discovery, although many Englishmen were already fishing in our alpine valleys at the end of the 19th century in search of grayling and large marble trout. In recent years a policy of water protection has meant that in some areas, unfortunately few, there is now a good quality of fishing both in fresh water and at sea. Obviously they are limited areas and in limited seasons, but with the help of skilled professionals we have enclosed in this catalog the excellence that Italy can offer on the international fly fishing market. In collaboration with our selected partner hotels, guides, and with the support of Italian travel agencies as regards logistics and ticketing part, we are able to organize the best itineraries that Italy has to offer, not only with regards to fishing, but also food and wine tours, culture and other activities.
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Trentino
The Sarca, Noce, Avisio and the others rivers in Trentino, are the best fishing locations in Italy. The more 300 km of waters, under license, include lakes, flowing waters and still waters, some are torrential and have freeze-thaw cycles, others are fluvial with a regular flow of water. The fish population includes marble trout, some large in size, native and introduced brown trout, rainbow trout, hybrids, grayling and, in several high mountain lakes, char. All these rivers are accessible from the road, have an almost perfect natural bed, with a generous capacity, deep holes and a good current. The variety of environments and the creation of specific areas for each fishing technique can meet
the needs of every angler. The rivers of Trentino offer ordinary areas, no kill zones and limited access reserves with booking required. With its charming tributaries and unspoilt alpine lakes, the Trentino rivers await you for a fantastic fishing day. There are also various accommodation, from camping to luxury hotels and the possibility of having expert fishing guides to accompany you along the rivers. A great variety of other activities complete the offer of this splendid destination for fishermen and families.
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H2O BESTLODGES
Upper Susa Valley
In Piedmont, on the border with France, to the west in correspondence with the Frejus Pass, the Dora Riparia begins its route and flows towards the valley: it is a left tributary of the Po River which, with all its basin tributaries, is today the protagonist of a new environmental tourism project dedicated to international fishing. We are immersed in the Upper Susa Valley, the Mountain of the City of Turin, cradle of the oldest and most famous European ski areas of the Milky Way and Bardonecchia, protagonists of the “XX Olympic Winter Games 2006” and today together in a new tourist offer dedicated entirely to flyfishing. In the fishing season, which stretches from March to October, these valleys offer anglers an incredible variety of spots: from small alpine streams to large glacial rivers and numerous alpine lakes. Crystal clear waters, surrounded by mountain peaks and snowfields, with breathtaking views and rich microfauna, characterize the area on the edge of nearby France. Water levels are constant all year round. The waterways and alpine lakes are home to abundant populations of brown trout, marble trout, and also rainbow and char. A large and evolving project is underway for the valorization of the waters of the district and its local trout, together with the updating of fishing regulations and the provision of high-quality guide services. The great tradition of tourist hospitality and local cuisine with its hotels and restaurants of all levels, proximity of the great Turin and its international airport, and professionalism of our fishing guides are able to satisfy the most demanding fishermen. At the same time various activities are offered to children and non-fishermen, making this a perfect destination for the whole family.
Tuscany
Castiglione della Pescaia is not only a beautiful medieval town by the sea, immersed in wonderful nature: the sea reigns here and fishing certainly does not come second. You can cast to bluefish in top-water from the shore or, on the best days, reach a small estuary on a belly boat, just a few miles from the harbour to look for big-sized bluefish, whereas at early dawn the dolphinfish entertain you with very powerful attacks and acrobatic jumps. You just need to be equipped with two 9” rods, one for a #9 and one #10l, to fish above all with a floating line, but you’d better take one intermediate with you as well. Poppers, Gurglers
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and streamers of different sizes are the flies to be used in every situation. There are a lot of opportunities in this area, included several fresh trout rivers, which are still not much exploited for fly fishing, though very productive if you fish in the proper way.
Piedmont
There are many flyfishing opportunities in Piedmont in general. Besides the renowned Ormea, Mastallone and Sesia rivers, there are other minor rivers with a considerable flow rate. Fly fishing has a long tradition here, you can fish on your own but the
Sardinia
support of a good guide is always recommended, at least for the first experiences. The location is also suitable for an excursion which can cover nice itineraries all reachable by car. However, in Piedmont you will have the pleasure to discover not only fine waters and wonderfully colored autochthonous brown trout, grayling and strong introduced rainbow trout, but you will also have the opportunity to taste excellent wine and enjoy the most renowned truffle in Italy, the Alba truffle.
In the hearth of the Mediterranean sea there’s an island with an impressive wild nature, breathtaking turquoise sea, genuine food, ancient traditions and great native people. This island is called Sardinia…here you can enjoy the ultimate bass fishing experience in Europe. Black bass are widely spread here. This species was imported in the 19th century from the USA, and today it is the main predator of the inland waters here. You will mainly fish inland lakes, some with large dams, often with clear water (clearness can vary). These are mainly medium-large waters with depths of tens of meters. Despite this, the depth range in which you will mostly fish goes from 0 to 5 meters, and under the right conditions, it is not rarely to experience great topwater fishing as well! Fishing is often concentrated in small bays and along the banks, among the submerged branches where the bass stand, waiting for their prey. Fishing these waters surrounded by an “old far west” looking-like dry nature, under the sun, is really impressive. We will do our best to suggest the best fishing periods, and we will be very clear with you about the fishing conditions. Your stay in Sardegna must not be a tiring and demanding fishing experience, but a holiday of relaxation and comfort: a perfect destination also for family members who can do many activities and enjoy the amazing nature and sea of the island!
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H2O BESTLODGES
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El Rincon Lodge www.elrinconflyfishing.com
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H2O BESTLODGES
El Rincon Estancia on famous Rio Gallegos. Picture yourself in wild Patagonia… After a hearty and delicious breakfast, your only trouble is to decide where to go fishing that day! El Rincon has access to over 50km of private, double bank waters, shared in rotation with 8 rods. This stretch of Rio Gallegos is considered as the most scenic and inviting part of the river — with a significant run of fully wild sea trout and a robust population of massive resident brown. Estancia El Rincon
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covers about 57,000 acres and includes a private 20km stretch of the world renown Rio Gallegos and a further 35kms of its major tributary, Rio Penitente, a spectacular river in its own right where more than 50% of the total Rio Gallegos run are heading. Though this can be described as a true wilderness experience, the lodge is very comfortable and maintains all its original features and historic charm, having been built in this remote part of Patagonia in 1902. The river is 150 metres far from the
house, and guests have spectacular views of the surrounding landscape together with the Andes as a panoramic backdrop. El Rincon fly fishing program is a true "El Campo" style operation run from Estancia Rincon De Los Morros, about 1 hour and 40 minutes drive from the town of Rio Gallegos. The guest accommodation is based on single occupancy unless couples wish to share. All meals and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, are included in the price. The fishing package at Rincon consists of 6 full days fishing / 7 nights.
Fishing At El Rincon fishing is both for fresh run sea trout up to 20+lbs and for resident brown trout averaging 3 to 4 lbs but with many specimens up to double figures. The main run of sea trout make their way into the river system around the end of November, beginning from December until the end of April or later, with guests having total access on both Rio Gallegos and Rio Penitente during their stay. Rio Penitente is just at a short distance from the lodge so guests have the opportunity to pick up a rod and walk few steps across the garden to try a few casts in any of the home pools of this stunning river. Rio Gallegos is a short drive from the lodge. Along these 20 kilometres we have a selection of pools with a good number of migrating sea trout.
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H2O BESTLODGES
Brown trout are also available here but usually we concentrate our efforts on the sea trout migrating upstream. These fish are big... and angry, being their journey interrupted, so be prepared for some rod bending action when encountering one of these hard fighting chromers! Our expert guides use 4x4 vehicles to drive guests to different sections of the river each day but, because of the meandering nature of the river and its myriad of glides, streams, pots and deep cut channels, time is never wasted driving long distances, as it is easy to walk from pool to pool in any chosen area. The management team at El Rincon includes Diego Peralta and Paul Becher. Both are passionate fly fishermen. Diego was born and raised in Rio Gallegos and has fished the local rivers all his life. He knows them intimately.
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Best lodges EST.
2018
Patagonia
Estancia El Rincon
• Fish species: sea run brown trout, residential brown trout • Seasonality: November to April • Temperatures: 10°C to 25°C • Number of guests per week: 8, all in single rooms • Arrival airport: Rio Gallegos • Transfer: by private 4x4, about 1,5 hour drive to the lodge
• Distance between lodge and fishing areas: 5 minutes to 40 minutes • Recommended equipment: 9#8 for Penitente River, 13 #8 for Rio Gallegos • Best flies: rubber legs, sunray shadow, woolly bugger • Do not forget: sunglasses, wool cap for the morning
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H2O BESTLODGES
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AlAskA
Ata Lodge
Alagnak River www.atalodge.com
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H2O BESTLODGES
If fly-fishing were considered a religion, then Alaska would be its holy sanctuary. Fly-Fishing in Alaska is more than just a sport or passion, it’s a way of life. Once you have been bitten by the bug, you’re “hooked”. A trip to Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge provides you with some of the most remote and stunningly beautiful locations on the planet. My father always told me, it’s about being outdoors
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and on the river. Catching a fish is just a bonus. Well in Alaska, I have to constantly remind myself to stop and appreciate the scenery because the fishing is so great. When discussing fishing, you may have heard the saying “it’s called fishing not catching”. But at ATA Lodge it can often seem like catching. For many, Alaska has always been a dream destination, somewhere they envision going to only once in a lifetime. But once you get up
here and experience what it has to offer, it will be hard to stay away. There is something about catching a huge Alaskan rainbow trout or salmon, surrounded by beauty beyond compare, that strikes something deep in all of us. South-western Alaska is the sanctuary of fly-fishing. Whether it be the sensation of a 35+lbs King Salmon pushing a double-handed rod to its limits, or seeing a 26-inch rainbow trout rise to crush a mouse pattern tied the previous evening, or just the feeling that no one has ever fished these beautiful waters before. It has to be said that fishing in Alaska is something very special. It brings us back to the reason why we started fishing in the first place. For the fun of it, for the thrill of a tight line and the sound of a reel drag screaming. It's for the laughter when your friend losing the fish of a lifetime, because in the heat of the moment he forgot to let go off the reel as "the-one-that-gotaway” took off downstream. Situated on the remote banks of the wild and scenic Alagnak River, Alaska Trophy Adventures Lodge is the perfect wilderness fishing retreat. Our lodge consists of 160 acres of prime river frontage, located in the most iconic section of the Alagnak known as the Upper Braids. It is accessible only via bush plane, landing on a private airstrip on the property.
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H2O BESTLODGES
You will spend an unforgettable time surrounded by wild, untouched nature, while enjoying all the comforts the lodge has to offer. All the guest cabins, including main lodge, have spectacular views of the Alagnak River. The dining lodge with lounge sofas, a fireplace and a stunning view of the river and mountains is the centre piece of the camp. It's where we have our meals, share stories and socialize after a day on the river. This building is the town hall of our little village. Wooden walkways connect all our private guest cabins (8) to each other and lead down to our naturally sheltered dock where a fleet of jet boats are ready to access all the best fishing spots within minutes from the lodge. The Swiss Chalet on the hill, is perfect for larger parties accommodating up to 8 guests comfortably and in style, not to mention the “Million Dollar View”, where you can overlook the rest of the property, river and mountains. The Alagnak River flows through a wild land of captivating landscapes, abundant wildlife, and cultural heritage. Meandering down the braided river, you may discover a bald eagle perched atop a spruce tree, gaze at a moose browsing along the river bank in the wet sedge tundra, or encounter a brown bear feasting upon spawning salmon. For centuries people have lived along the Alagnak and have depended on the rich natural resources for survival. The Alagnak River’s wildlife and the abundant fish make the river the most soughtafter destination for sport fishing in southwest Alaska.
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Best lodges EST.
2018
Alaska
Alagnak River
• Fish species: all the Pacific salmon species, grayling, char, raimbow trout, pike, namaycush • Seasonality: June to September • Temperatures: 5°C to 25°C • Number of guests per week: 24 guests • Arrival airport: King Salmon
• Transfer: by private airplane • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: 1 minute • Recommended equipment: 9ft #8 line, 11/13ft skagit, 9ft #6 for trout • Best flies: Black leech, Flask, Polar shrimp, Pink leech, Elk hare caddis • Do not forget: camera • Other: if you like nature it is a special place
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H2O BESTLODGES
GreAt fishing houses of
Ireland
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connemara · Ireland
www.irelandflyfishing.com
The Great Fishing Houses of Ireland are twelve of the finest fishing establishments in Ireland. To be featured in this group, they all have met the most stringent standards and have the premises, the fishing, the facilities and the staff to offer a truly complete angler's holiday. Accommodation ranges from homely guesthouses, to sporting hotels, or country mansions. All are run by people with a keen, personal interest in the sport or who have enthusiastic fishing specialists on their staff. You will be pleasantly surprised at the very reasonable cost of fishing holidays in Ireland, compared with other locations in Europe. This guide offers wonderful variety – so you can choose the Great Fishing House which best suits your fishing interests, your holiday style and your budget. Some houses offer a full restaurant service with your party sitting at its own table. In others, everyone eats together at a large table, perhaps with a set menu. All Great Fishing Houses have a wine licence unless otherwise indicated. Many of our houses offer fishing on private waters, in other houses the fishing is free. Ghillies are available and are sometimes shared by two or more anglers.
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H2O BESTLODGES
NATURE. WILD. HEART-STIRRING Live the ultimate fly fishing adventure in the Brazilian Amazon like you have never experienced before. Pristine, unspoiled rivers, amazing surroundings, fascinating wildlife, exuberant flora and inspiring native culture, heritage, and ancestral knowledge. More than a world-class fishing experience, Untamed Angling is synonymous with journeys to the living myths and legends of the remote Amazon jungle. Venture deep into nature to live a life-changing experience!
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www.untamedangling.com
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H2O BESTLODGES
EXPERIENCE WORLD CLASS FLY FISHING AND EXPLORATION We offer a wide array of outdoor activities for both anglers and non-anglers: from strict catch and release fly fishing to night and day hiking, canoe and boat tours to birding and dolphin watching, visits range from nearby communities to photographic safaris. You will find unique opportunities to discover nature getting the most out of our original working platform: a team consisting of a professional guide who will provide specific technical recommendations and a native guide who will share his profound knowledge of the rainforest and his craft as a hunter and fisherman.
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PROVIDING PREMIUM ACCOMODATIONS IN THE MOST SECLUDED DESTINATIONS, WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES. At Untamed Angling we set out to develop high-class premises to combine the best of both worlds-entrancing, exhilarating settings outside and splendid, five-star rated rooms and amenities inside, whether in our lodges, our glamping tents or on the Untamed Amazon, our specifically designed vessel. Relax in our lounges and share your daily experiences with your fellow anglers and explorers while enjoying a glass of fine wine. Delight your palate with our haute cuisine in our dining rooms. Tell your loved ones all about it using our satellite Wi-Fi connection, and then go to sleep in a cozy bed in your suite, equipped with a private bathroom-and astonishing views.
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H2O BESTLODGES
Best lodges EST.
he largest and most e Amazon. Explore more d the luxury Untamed
2018
Discover the river of World Records: The largest and most exclusive giant peacock bass reserve in the Amazon. Explore more than 500 miles of thrilling waters aboard the luxury Untamed Amazon vessel.
Species: temensis peacock bass, butterfly peacock bass, traira, arowana, stripped catfish, piraiba
Season: September to February Accommodation: Untamed Amazon Vessel Occupancy: 12 anglers Packages: 6 days fishing/7 nights Travel to: Manaus – Brazil Where: Medio Rio Negro Indigenous Territory – 550 miles northwest from Manaus
Gps: 1° 5'23.4"S / 67°48'45.3"W
• Fish Species: Peacock Bass: https://www.marieriver.com/peacock/ Other species: smaller varieties of these cichlids / Borboletas or butterfly peacock / black arowana / trairas / tripped surubi and the monster piraíba: https://www.marieriver.com/the-fishing • Seasonality: Regular Season (August to December) Extended Season (January and February) • Number of guests: 11 anglers + 1 host • Arrival airport: Manaus International Airport • Transfer: Regular season: https://www.marieriver.com/travel-planner/itinerary
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Extended season: https://www.marieriver.com/travel-planner/itinerary • Distance from the lodge and fishing areas: from zero to two hours, depending on the zones we are fishing. Check out the Marié’s • Recommended equipment: Travel Planner here https://www.marieriver.com/travel-planner/fishing • Three best flies: The Marie Slut, NYAP Popper, Dad’s Deceiver • Do not forget: see the checklist https://www.marieriver.com/travel-planner/fishing
Best lodges EST.
2018
Meet the original inhabitants of the Amazon. Discover a crystal clear river clear Meet Meet the the original original inhabitants inhabitants of of the the Amazon. Amazon. Discover Discover aa crystal crystal clear brimming with a lively variety river river brimming brimming with with aa lively lively variety variety of of jungle jungle fish, fish, while while wet wet wading wading and and of jungle fish, while wet wading sight sight fishing, fishing, following following the the Kayapo Kayapo Legacy. Legacy. and sight fishing, following the Kayapo Legacy.
Species: Species: wolfish, wolfish, pacu pacu (3 (3 varieties), varieties), peacock peacock bass, bass, bicuda, bicuda, payara, payara, matrincha, matrincha, and and more more
Season: Season:especies June June to tode September September • Fish Species: Peacock Bass, Payara, Wolfish, 3 diferentes • Distance from the lodge and fishing areas: from zero to one and Pacu, Bicuda, Matrincha, Surubi, Red tail Catfish, Accommodation: Jungle Drums (corvia half Lodge hours, Accommodation: Kendjam Kendjam Lodgedepending on the zones we are fishing. na), Jacunda and more. https://www.kendjamlodge.com/the-fishing • Recommended equipment: Check Check out out Kendjam’s Kendjam’s Occupancy: Occupancy: 88 anglers anglers • Seasonality: June to September https://www.kendjamlodge.com/travel-planner/fishing Travel Travel Planner Planner • Number of guests: 8 anglers + 1 host • Three best flies: NYAP Popper, Matrincha Hopper, Packages: Packages: 66 days days fishing/7 fishing/7 nights nights • Arrival airport: Manaus International Airport Minnow EP Streamer Travel Travel to: to: Manaus Manaus –– Brazil Brazil • Transfer: https://www.kendjamlodge.com/travel-planner/itinerary • Do not forget: see the checklist: Where: Where: Mekrangnoti-Kayapo Mekrangnoti-Kayapo Indigenous Indigenous https://www.kendjamlodge.com/travel-planner/fishing Territory Territory –– 550 550 miles miles southeast southeast from from Manaus Manaus
Gps: Gps: 7°40'56.5"S 7°40'56.5"S // 53°22’25"W 53°22’25"W
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H2O BESTLODGES
Best lodges EST.
2018
Chase the prehistoric giant arapaima, sight fishing for arowanas and battle with the mighty Chase the prehistoric giant arapaima, sightin fishing for arowanas tambaqui the amazing and battle with the mighty tambaqui in the amazing Mamirauá Mamirauá reserve. reserve.
Species: arapaima, arowana, tambaqui and yellow peacock bass
Season: September to December Accommodation: Uakari Floating Lodge Occupancy: 8 anglers • Fish Species: Arapaima, Arowana and Tambaquis and Peacock Bass • Distance from the lodge and fishing areas: 15 minutes Check out Pirarucu’s • Seasonality: September to November. • Recommended Packages: 4 days fishing/5 nights to equipment: Travel Planner • Number of guests: 8 anglers and 8 non-anglers. 6 days fishing/7nights https://www.pirarucuflyfishing.com/travel-planner/fishing • Arrival airport: Manaus International Airport • Three best flies: Big Arapaima Fly, Rat Fly, NYAP popper Travel to: Manaus – Brazil • Transfer: • Do not forget: see the checklist Where: Mamirauá Reserve – 300 miles https://www.pirarucuflyfishing.com/travel-planner/itinerary https://www.pirarucuflyfishing.com/travel-planner/fishing west from Manaus
Gps: 3° 1'19.4"S / 64°53'31.7"W
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Best lodges EST.
2018
Explore the legendary Xingu River with the native Kayapo people, while experiencing a fly fishing Heaven for payara.
Species: Species: payara payara (2 (2
peacock peacock bass, bass, bicud bicu
Season: Season: Septembe Septemb
Accommodation Accommodation
Explore Explore the the legendary legendary Xingu Xingu River River with with the the native native Kayapo Kayapo people, people, while while experiencing experiencing aa fly fly fishing fishing Heaven Heaven for for payara. payara.
Occupancy: Occupancy: 88 ang an
Packages: Packages: 66 days days
Travel Travel to: to: Manaus Manaus
Where: Where: Kayapo Kayapo In In
550 550 miles miles southeas southeas
Gps: Gps: 7°31'23.89"S/ 7°31'23.89"S/ 55
• Fish Species: Payara (main species), peacock bass, wolf-fish, pacu, bicuda, Matrincha, Surubi, Red tail Catfish, Jungle Drums (corvina) and more. • Seasonality: September to November • Number of guests: 8 anglers • Arrival airport: Manaus International Airport • Transfer: https://xingulodge.com/TravelPlanner/itinerary.html
• Distance from the lodge and fishing areas: from 2 minutes to 30 minutes • Recommended equipment: https://xingulodge.com/TravelPlanner/fishing.html • Three best flies: The Vampire Trailer, NYAP Popper, Matrincha Hopper • Do not forget: see the checklist https://xingulodge.com/TravelPlanner/fishing.html
Check Check out out Xingu’s Xingu’s Travel Travel Planner Planner
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H2O BESTLODGES
FOCUS ON ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP Sustainability is at the core of our operation. Untamed Angling contributes to preserving the over 12 million hectares/almost 30 million acres of rainforest comprised by our destinations. We produce thorough environmental reports every season, and dedicate our efforts to studying the fish population and their life cycle. We are in continuous search of fresh, innovative ideas that can help us reduce our ecological footprint, whether through the use of renewable energy, proper waste management, or recycling.
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SECURING THE ENVIRONMENT AND ITS BIODIVERSITY WITH LEGAL AUTHORITIES Involving authorities is key to our goal of building a solid, long-lasting legal frame that guarantees the protection of our projects by ensuring a sustainable use of resources. We work cooperatively with numerous government officials and agencies to submit and discuss environmental proposals and research programs to further understand the ecosystems.
ENGAGING LOCAL COMMUNITIES Untamed Angling has an equitable partnership with the indigenous people as a genuine way of keeping their legacy alive. By providing fair employment to over 300 indigenous people, and 100 non-indigenous locals, our partnership is a means of helping natives preserve their centuries-old culture and tradition. Because of this close collaboration our destinations now provide more economical benefits for indigenous people than any other tourist attraction in Latin America, thus improving their quality of life and building a sustainable future for their communities.
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H2O BESTLODGES
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Denmark FiSHiNG LODGE SEA TROUT FiSHiNG
www.denmarkfishinglodge.com
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H2O BESTLODGES
Sea trout fishing is the main reason why anglers from all across Europe return to Fyn every year. We have thousands of anglers coming back to enjoy our coastal fishing. The island is a unique and fantastic place. You will fish in a variety of natural locations along the coast, over reefs and from sandy beaches. This is not a “20-fisha-day” destination, therefore if you are looking for that, this destination is not for you. But, if you are looking for a fantastic fishing trip and the satisfaction of catching fish with “value added”, then you must try this experience.
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Sea trout are very strong and are known for jumping spectacularly once hooked. They vary in size, with many fish averaging 35-55 cm, but it’s possible to catch 60-80cm fish which can be the trout of a lifetime, especially if you consider catching it directly in the sea. In the region of Fyn, you can find the oldest fishing lodge in Denmark. Since 2013, this unique place, has offered holidays totally dedicated to the sea trout angler. Denmark Fishing & Outdoor Lodge is located in the south-western part of the island,
one of the most beautiful parts of the region with some of the best sea trout spots in Denmark. You have plenty of fishing spots not more than 20 minutes away by car. Fyn is a magical place for sea trout fishing and you can easily travel to the opposite side of the region in less than one hour and get back in the evening in time for a delicious dinner and some fish talk with other anglers. Even if they are highly specialized in coastal sea trout fishing, in some periods of the year they offer the possibility to fish northern
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H2O BESTLODGES
Denmark
Best lodges EST.
2018
Helnaes • Fish species: sea trout (coastal fishing), pike (lakes) • Seasonality: mainly spring and autumn • Temperatures: in spring and autumn 5°C to 25°C • Number of guests per week: max 16/18 • Arrival airport: 1.30 hour from Billund airport and 2.30 hours from Copenhagen airport • Transfer: better to rent a car • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: from 200 mt to the sea • Recommended equipment: 9ft rods #6 to #8 line for sea trout fishing. #8 to #10 line for pike fishing • Three best flies: shrimp patterns, gammarus patterns, baitfish patterns • Do not forget: waders, waterproof jacket, stripping basket, polarized sunglasses • Other: the landscape is very nice and the area is well appreciated by nature lovers
pike in private pristine lakes. Fishing in these private shallow water natural lakes is something special and the possibility to catch pike over a metre is not uncommon. The lodge was created firstly to meet the needs of its guests. The staff is always willing to give the best updated fishing information. They offer a wide range of services, such as a heated wading dressing room, a fly-tying area, a fishing library, a shop, guide services, gear rental and more. The guide service is
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certified and can assist both fly and spin anglers, both beginners and experts. The lodge restaurant serves mainly Italian dishes and some Danish dishes as well. The lodge is also a perfect accommodation for nature lovers and is great for just relaxing. Guests can enjoy beautiful sunsets on the seaside and long walks in the countryside. The area also offers opportunities to visit ancient castles, some Viking archaeological sites and fascinating fishing villages.
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H2O BESTLODGES
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Iceland info@justflyfishing.it
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H2O BESTLODGES
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Careful management and fairly low fishing pressure have protected the rivers and made fishing in this area extremely interesting, not to mention the lunar landscape and the almost absence of population that contributes to increasing its charm. We are talking about Iceland and precisely the area around Selfoss, which, with its 7000 inhabitants, is the main town in the municipality of Árborg in the Suðurland region. Near this village splendid sea trout can be caught in the Varma river that flows through it, in an area full of hot ponds. The trout that go up this river are of good size, often exceeding 80 cm and can be seen while trying to go upstream jumping the many small waterfalls.
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H2O BESTLODGES
Fishing can be with dry flies or with semi-submerged flies and 4/6 fishermen are allowed at a time in a stretch that exceeds 5 km of the river, where a guide is always recommended. The Sog, an excellent Atlantic salmon river, also flows in this area and not far from the lodge it is possible to catch the famous trout of Lake Þingvallavatn, the largest lake in Iceland. Large browns can also be found in other nearby streams and lakes. Often, these lodges are self catering. In the highland region, a couple of hours to the north east, another lodge can accommodate up to 16 people- here fishing focuses on trout and especially char, which are abundant in the small streams. Tiny nymphs and great presentation are key to success.
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Best lodges EST.
2018
Iceland
• Location: Iceland • Fish species: brown trout, sea trout, char, salmon • Seasonality: May to September • Temperatures: 5°C to 20°C • Number of guests per week: 8 • Arrival airport: Reykiavik • Transfer: arranged from Tour operator or by rental car • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: 10 minutes to 1 hour
• Recommended equipment: rods 9ft # 5 for trout ad seatrout, 12 to 14ft # 6, 8 for salmon local flies • Best flies: for salmon Cascade and Alluy shrimp, for trout Brown Sedge and Black Ant • Do not forget: solar cream, net for mosquitoes, wading staff • Other: it is probably one of the best places to catch natural trout and maybe your lifetime trout
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H2O BESTLODGES
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EstAnciA LAgunA Verde
Jurassic Lake info@justflyfishing.it
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The rumors you’ve heard about trout fishing at Strobel lake ( Jurassic Lake) and Barrancoso River (Jurassic River) are true. Memorable rainbows are caught on regular basis at Estancia Laguna Verde Lodge, the one and only lodge in all Strobel/Barrancoso plateu area. With its first class lodging and exclusive access to miles of Strobel lake, Barrancoso river, Moro creek and over 12 smaller lakes and lagoons, we are the obvious choice for serious anglers looking for the fishing trip of a lifetime. Estancia Laguna Verde is unmistakably the ultimate fly fishing experience in remote southern Patagonia, Argentina. That is why a growing number of anglers come back year after year for another taste of this amazing fishery – considered by many experts as “the Best Wild Rainbow Trophy Trout Fishery on the entire globe”. We are proud to say that Estancia Laguna Verde offers the best and most varied fishing programs in all Santa Cruz province. Over the years, we’ve learned that what draws the attention
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and amazes our guests are the methods we use to catch these out-of-this-world rainbows: sight fishing in crystal waters to cruising fish using floating lines, slow stripping small to medium size streamers and nymphs, skating big foam flies and mouse patterns, or even hanging scuds and small nymphs from big dries. One of the Estancia´s highlight programs is the incredible Barrancoso River, the one and only tributary of Strobel Lake. This beautiful freestone river runs for more than 10 km through our
Estancia and our guests have access to most of its fishing parts. Anglers can fish as far as it enters Strobel lake. In this dreamlike river with its see-through waters and amazing runs of huge trout anglers can fish 3 different parts named: upper, middle and lower section. These sections have 2 beats each with its own features, offering outstanding and demanding fishing. Estancia Laguna Verde started to work as a lodge in December 2008. It can host up to 10/12 anglers per week, with 7 double bedrooms with en
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Argentina
Best lodges EST.
2018
El Calafate • Fish species: rainbow trout • Seasonality: November to April • Temperatures: 5°C to 30°C • Number of guests per week: about 10, 12 • Arrival airport: El Calafate • Transfer: arranged by lodge, about 5 hours of car from airport • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: 10 minutes • Recommended equipment: rod 9 # 8,9, floating lines, take also a sinking tip • Three best flies: wolly bugger black, prince nimph, chernobil • Do not forget: solar cream, a couple of line more, striper finger • Other: take one day to see the Perito Moreno Glacier, which is 70km from El Calafate. You can stop one night in Calafate and visit the Glacier. It is amazing.
suite bathrooms. Our spacious living room overlooking Laguna Verde is one of the favourite spots in the lodge. Anglers can sip on a cocktail while enjoying slide shows of the catches of the day on a 42´ LCD TV set. Satellite TV connection and a DVD player are available for entertainment, as well. For complete relaxation, room are equipped with a fly tying desk and library to enjoy when not fishing. There is also a newly built changing room / drying facility located just by the entrance door of the lodge to be used
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before and after fishing. We want to make sure anglers have all the fishing gear (such as waders, wading boots, rods, reels, vests, etc.) ready and dried every day. The Lodge also offers Satellite and IP telephone and free unlimited wireless Internet access. To avoid extra luggage anglers can use the computer of the lodge. Windmill generators, and fuel generators as back up, guarantee the energy demands of the Lodge, providing electricity (220 volt.) 24 hrs a day. Laundry
service is provided twice a week if desired by guests, as well as any other special attention needed or wanted. The staff offers friendly and professional attention to create a cosy and hasslefree atmosphere to guarantee that our guests have a truly unforgettable experience. There´s a very good chef in charge of all the meals for the guests and a waitress/hostess. There is a team of 6 professional guides per week. Season is from November to middle April.
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Estancia
Rio Pelke
info@justflyfishing.it
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Tres Amigos is an Argentinian company that has been organizing trips for fishermen for a long time. Initially it was with a first lodge on the Rio Gallegos and later in other inter-esting areas of this splendid region of Argentinian Patagonia. - We are now accustomed to Argentinian hospitality and the proverbial professionalism of their guides, and even in this case the expectations were up to par. Fishing is done with light rods for sizes 4 and 5 tails and almost always with small dry flies or nymphs.
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The transparency of the water and the size of the fish mean that fishing is always "at sight." The vastness of this estancia is incredible: tens of square kilometers and immense expanses of uninhabited plains in which kilometers of pristine rivers flow. There is a homey atmosphere at Estancia Pelke, where the family management gives impeccable services to a few guests a week. The main house, where the owners Fernanda and Pedro live with their children, was built at the end of the 19th century and time seems to have stopped at that period. All the interior furnishings are taken care of perfectly with great taste. In addition to Estancia Pelke with its small rivers, Tres Amigos has other excellent programs: The Santa Cruz River, famous for its large flow of water and the enormous Steelhead that climb it up in winter, the Glaciar King program with its huge chinooks, and finally Estancia la Butreras.
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It is superfluous to talk about the quality of the food when you go to Argentina, as well as the rest of the logistics and friendly atmosphere that only Argentinians can create. Recently this area has been visited not only by fishermen looking for trophy trout, but by travellers of all sorts. The proximity to the Perito Moreno glacier, a couple of hours by car, and the nearby border with Chile and the Torre del Paine are making wild Patagonia a modern and well equipped tourist destination.
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Best lodges EST.
2018
Patagonia
Estancia Rio Pelke
• Fish species: Brown trout • Seasonality: October to April • Number of guests per week: 6 • Arrival airport: Rio Gallegos or El Calafate, Argentina • Transfer: by organization
• Distance between lodge and fishing areas: 10 minutes to 1 hour • Recommended equipment: 9 feet class 5, 6 • Best flies: Saltamontes, Chernobyl, Wolly Bugger Black • Do not forget: sunglasses and sunscreen • Others: a real old Patagonian atmosphere
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KolA peninsulA
Chavanga River www.chavanga.com - info@justflyfishing.it
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When you arrive in Chavanga, you really get that impression of being at the end of the world. Indeed, we probably already got that feeling 3-4 hours before reaching this desolate Russian territory.
The journey As we arrived at the airport of Murmansk, Vasil and his sons were waiting for us. Immediately after we had introduced ourselves, the hardest part of the journey began, as we had to reach the village of Umba and then continue in a four-wheel vehicle through sandy terrain as far as the estuary of the Varzuga River. Usually guests fly helicopter to Chavanga and back but we had to experience this legendary road by the coast of White Sea. After we unloaded our luggage, we crossed the river Varzuga by boat and on the other side, a 6-wheel-drive military truck with an iron cargo cabin and a few chairs welded to the bottom awaited us. On the whole, it was pretty comfortable, as the scent of adventure lessened the threshold of pain. There is no road: you drive on the shoreline of the sea where possible, on lichen and moss carpets of the tundra, which is a rather slippery and giant rocks where the vehicle limps along in first gear. After a few hours of this you reach the banks of the Chavanga river.
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The fisghing The rivers of White sea in Kola peninsula usually have a JuneJuly spring run and then another one in the Autumn. The Osenka (Autumn fish) is the biggest run here. The shape of this river is perfect for fly-fishing, with very small falls and remarkable flats; there are about 18 kilometres of Chavanga river available for 6-7 anglers wishing to explore it with the help of the caterpillar. The autumn colours of birch trees and the flora on the banks make you feel like you’re inside a painting. You can split Chavanga in three parts (lower, middle and upper) where each part really stands for its unique characteristics. For one week, I almost always fished with a one-handed dry fly rod, using big deer bombers or sunrise
shadow flies with riffle hitch on the surface. Seeing a 90 cm salmon break the surface to take your floating fly would be well worth even a longer journey. What struck me most were the so-called “resident” fish, that is salmon which had been in the river for a couple of months and had taken on a brown and reddish colour making them look like big trout. These fish, which hardly bite a fly in other countries like Scotland, are very aggressive here and are among the first ones to come to the surface to feed, which is really incredible. Big numbers of fresh fish enter the river from mid September to end of October.
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Russia
Best lodges
Kola peninsula • Location: Kola peninsula, about 6-hour drive from Umba village or 1 hour by helicopter • Fish species: Atlantic salmon, brown trout, sea trout, grayling • Seasonality: mid-May to mid-October • Temperatures: 4°C to 20°C • Number of guests per week: 7 • Arrival airport: Murmansk • Transfer: by van and truck, helicopter transfers are available at extra cost • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: 5 minutes, the lodge is on the bank of the river • Recommended equipment: 12 ft Scandi rod to 15 ft double handed, single handed for dry flies • Three best flies: Cascade, German Snaelda , Sunray shadow • Do not forget: a wool cap, it is sometimes cold in the morning • Other: Kitsa river is only 50 km from Chavanga River, possible to organize mix river trip in one week
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EST.
2018
The lodge The lodge we stayed in is comfortable for 6 or 7 people with a wellequipped kitchen and a place where you can put your mounted rods and waders to dry out. Vasil and his sons are excellent guides and good cooks, from breakfast to lunch on the river as well as dinner. They have a great organisation of fishing process too. In front of the lodge is a spacious sauna which supplies hot water at any time and is a panacea on rainy days. The territory is very isolated from roads and it makes this place free of fishing pressure
as in other areas in Kola Peninsula. Fishing Chavanga makes you feeling as you fish all alone in the wilderness. Moreover, the lack of regular transport lines means that Vasil practically has the exclusivity on this river and very competitive prices. In other more famous locations we would have surely spent more than twice as much and considering the 95 salmon the five of us caught in one week’s fishing, it was really worth it.
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Dorado in clear water
info@justflyfishing.it
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Fishing for dorado is something that is difficult to explain. You can describe the fish and the environment, but the snap of the bite and grit of this fish must be experienced personally. We have experienced this emotion in the Argentine Northwest, close to the border with Bolivia, with a new organization that has recently been promoting dorado fishing on foot in crystal clear waters. Surely this is not a trip for everyone and in order not to find ourselves in the middle of the holiday with legs that
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can’t hold us anymore, the organization has planned two days of descent by boat in a bigger river. It is an excellent solution both to diversify fishing and to rest a bit.. The rivers where we fishing are on the border between Argentina and Bolivia, north of Salta, a beautiful town. We also fish small streams of clear water in the jungle. Fishing is always on sight and dry with embarrassingly large imitations of large rats and Chernobyl. The proverbial aggressiveness of this fish and its numerous jumps as soon as
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it is hooked make fishing extremely enjoyable. The fascination of catching these fish in clear water by seeing them before casting the fly is amazing. We are talking about fish weighing 8-10 kg. The approach is what makes the difference. The just too high volume of the voice or the stomping of the feet irreparably frightens this freshwater lion. The equipment is put into crisis as soon as this fish is hooked. Despite fishing with the last 20 cm of steel terminal, it happens to have it cut at the first headshot of the fish. That said, I think this kind of fishing is among the toughest but the most exciting I’ve ever done. A 6-8 kg dorado caught with a dry fly in a small river of crystal clear water, and with a populace the size of an orange, is something you should try.
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Best lodges EST.
2018
Argentina
Dorado in clear water
• Fish species: Dorado • Seasonality: October to May • Number of guests per week: 6 • Arrival airport: Salta, Argentina • Transfer: by organization
• Distance between lodge and fishing areas: about 50 minutes • Recommended equipment: 9 feet class 7, 8 • Best flies: Andino Deciver, Black mouse • Do not forget: sunscreen • Others: a destination for walkers
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Slovenia HOTEL ZLATA RiBiCA
www.ribica.si
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Slovenia has always been recognized as one of the best destinations in the world for fishing grayling and big marble trout. Excellent management of the waters has made these areas very attractive for fly-anglers from all over the world, who come to the banks of the Idrija, Soca, Sava and Unec Rivers every year. The countless tributaries of these rivers are of rare beauty and offer excellent quality water, where you can fish good-sized grayling and other big fish in a unique environment. Over the years, the extraordinary pebbly bottom of these rivers and the typical colour of these waters have inspired many artists to express their emotions through their works.
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The Hotel Zlata Ribica is located in this setting, just a few steps from the Most na Soči Lake, in the small village of Idrija Pri Baci. The owner, Matei, who runs the hotel together with his wife, is the nephew of the famous guide, Franco Gorjan, a legendary figure for fly-fishing in this region and inventor of some of the most famous artificial flies for fishing these waters. Matei and his son Vitan are passionate fly-anglers and very good guides, so they can give you accurate advice on the conditions of the
rivers and fishing permits as well. The Hotel Zlata Ribica is also situated on the banks of the Idrjia River and with its excellent restaurant and very hospitable family management can offer a complete range of services comparable to the best fishing lodges. The advantage of this hotel lies in its position too: in about 20 minutes you can reach the upper part of the Idrija River and its famous trophy reserve, or you could just go across the courtyard if you want to fish the lower part of the river. The
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Slovenia
Best lodges EST.
2018
Most na Soci • Fish species: marble and rainbow trout, grayling, Hucho • Seasonality: April to October for trout and grayling, November to February for Hucho salmon • Temperatures: 5°C to 30°C, cold in winter • Number of guests per week: about 26 • Arrival airport: 2-hour drive from Venice airport or about 1,5 hours from Ljubljana airport • Transfer: better to rent a car • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: Idrija river is 20 meters from hotel, max 1-hour drive for the others • Recommended equipment: 9, 10 ft for #3 to #6 line. For Hucho salmon 9ft #9 line • Best flies: any type of nymph for grayling and dry flies for evening surface feeding • Do not forget: waders and polarized sunglasses, water is very clear • Other: nice area for tourism and food lovers
many tributaries are worth mentioned too: The Trebušica, which flows very close to the hotel and the Baca, which can be reached on foot. You can also travel by train (the station is situated 1km from the Hotel), where cars are loaded directly onto the trains and in less than an hour you can get to the valley of the Sava River, another destination which certainly needs no presentation. The reserve for fly-anglers is among the longest ones in Europe.
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Moreover the Bled and Bohinj Lakes (half an hour from one another by car) formed by the Sava River are the ecological basin that supplies the fish species and contribute to the constant flow of clear water in the river. Not too far away from the Zlata Ribica is also the majestic Soca River, which is famous for the biggest marble trout in Europe. The pursuit of salmon fishing in the Danube is something more recent. Several local guides have
suggested fishing excursions in the winter devoted to Hucho salmon, a sought-after prey that can reach considerable sizes. The cold icy mornings can be rewarded by trophies which often weigh over 10 kg. This region is therefore an ideal destination for both fishing enthusiasts who want to spend all day on the river and families aiming at spending a holiday in this wonderful country, where there are lots of outdoor activities.
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Casting in paradise 76
bahamas.com - info@justflyfishing.it
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In the hands of masters
Big Game
Fully kitted out Bahamian fishing lodges in stunning surroundings are dotted throughout the islands. On charterboats at sea, in skiffs on inland waterways and the shallow 'flats' along the coast, you’ll find fishermen and guides with a wealth of experience and gobsmacking ‘fishy tales’ eager to give you adventure. Find stories in The Bahamas that you will be retelling at dinner parties for evermore. With over 50 fishing records to their credit, The Islands of The Bahamas are considered one of the premier destinations in the world for sport fishing. Deep-sea fishing and bonefishing are the two standouts, with events and tournaments held throughout the islands year-round. Experienced guides and fishing lodges are plentiful in the islands and have reef facility to ensure you have the very best fishing experience possible. The Bahamas has every type of salt water fishing for first-timers and fanatics.
The ocean is home to some big predators, including Marlin, Wahoo and Mahi Mahi. For anglers, there’s no greater challenge than putting yourself against one of these fish that can outweigh you by five times or more. Record catches are set each year as fishermen from around the world cast their reels for the ultimate prize.
Reef Fishing For those looking for an easy break from the demands of bonefishing or the expense of big-game fishing, reef fishing is for you. Just cast a line off a pier, dock or in the mangroves of any Bahamian island for your chance to snag snapper, grouper, mutton and more.
Andros For the best bonefishing, head for Andros, “the bonefishing capital of the world”. Huge Andros, split and splintered by watery bights and cuts, has incredibly varied bonefishing. The best spots around North Andros include the Joulter Cays, while in South Andros guides head to Deep Creek and Little Creek as well as the legendary west side and southern tip of the island where many of the prime fishing grounds have barely been explored.
Bimini With its prime location, slap-bang in the middle of the Gulf Stream, Bimini is regarded as the “big game fishing capital of the world”, where you can “go for the big one” and set new records in deep waters teeming with swordfish, marlin, tarpon, mahi mahi and tuna.
Southern bahamas: Acklins and Crooked Island, Mayaguana and Inagua No matter if you are an avid or novice angler, these undisturbed inland creeks and vast tidal flats are a fisherman’s dream. The western and northern sides of these islands provide the deep-sea experience of a lifetime. Mayaguana, Acklins & Crooked Island, Inagua embrace enormous areas of virgin flats. Locals describe the bonefish as “lazing around and dying of old age”! Far away from Nassau’s buzzling city and tourist attractions, the tranquil Southern Bahamas have the best fishing of the islands.
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Bonefishing If you’d like a rewardingly technical angling challenge in The Bahamas, bonefishing is for you. For that reason it’s becoming increasingly popular, so opportunities and facilities abound. For the most consistently fine bonefishing, head for Andros, dubbed ‘the bonefish capital of the world’. The Exumas and Acklins & Crooked Island are top spots for fishing wily creatures which inhabit the shallow waters of the mud flats around many of the islands. Hooking and landing the ‘grey ghost’ of the flats can be a knife-edge adventure. Once hooked, bonefish can reach a speed of 30mph, forcing you to call on every one of your angling skills to bring it in. That’s why bonefishing has become one of the most popular types of fishing in these waters, with anglers finding it particularly rewarding. They say “once you’ve hooked a bone, there ain’t no looking back!”
Island activities All the resorts and boutique hotels, and most fishing lodges, will cater to non-fishing partners and families. The oceans around The Islands Of The Bahamas are crystal clear and perfect for diving, sailing, snorkeling, swimming with dolphins or kayaking. On land, relax on the beach, play a round of golf, shop or explore the local culture through one of the many tours.
Tournaments The Bahamas attracts fishermen from all over the world all throughout the year. And with the wide variety of fish in the waters off the islands, there's a packed calendar of fishing tournaments and events in which everyone can participate.
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Best lodges EST.
2018
The Bahamas
all the islands
• Fish species: bonefish, tarpon, permits, all trevally species and others • Seasonality: all year round • Temperatures: 20°C to 30°C • Arrival airport: Nassau to the islands or directly to some islands via USA
• Transfer: usually by car • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: few minutes • Recommended equipment: 9 ft #7 to #12 line • Best flies: Crazy Charlie, Lefty’s Deceiver • Do not forget: sun lotion, sunglasses and sun protection clothing • Accomodation: plenty of choices, from typical Bahamas houses to high standard hotels
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fly fishing in
Greenland
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Greenland, the land of ice and adventure, offers a unique fly fishing experience that enthusiasts around the world dream of - fishing for Arctic char in the pristine Napiarrisat River. This extraordinary journey begins in the picturesque coastal town of Sisimiut, the last settlement before embarking on a breathtaking expedition into Greenland’s untouched wilderness.
info@denmarkfishnglodge.com - info@h2oflyfishing.com
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Discovering Greenland’s Natural Beauty
The Napiarrisat River; a Fly Fishing Heaven
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is renowned for its untamed landscapes, towering icebergs, and majestic fjords. The pristine wilderness of this Arctic paradise is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and fly fishing in the Napiarrisat River is a rare and exciting opportunity to explore this unspoiled territory. Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest town, is a charming place that serves as a gateway to this remote adventure. With colorful houses dotting the landscape, it exudes a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can explore its rich Inuit culture, sample local cuisine, and prepare for the thrilling journey ahead.
From Sisimiut, the journey continues by boat to the heart of the Napiarrisat River, a place where dreams of fly fishing come to life. This remote river is tucked away amidst Greenland’s dramatic landscape, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for anglers seeking Arctic char. The river is fed by glaciers, ensuring crystal-clear waters and an abundance of cold, oxygen-rich water - perfect conditions for Arctic char to thrive. The fish here are known for their vibrant colors and impressive size, making every catch a memorable experience.
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Greenland
Best lodges EST.
2018
• Fish species: artic char • Seasonality: July/August • Number of guests per week: 8/10 • Arrival airport: Sisimiut (Greenland) • Transfer: by boat to the camp • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: fishing starts from the camp • Recommended equipment: 9 ft 7# floating lines • Do not forget: warm sleeping bag • Other: amazing destination, exclusive camp by invitation only
The Art of Fly Fishing in Napiarrisat Fly fishing in the Napiarrisat River is not just about the thrill of the catch; it’s a deep connection with nature. The quiet serenity of the surroundings, interrupted only by the gentle sound of the river, creates an unforgettable experience for anglers. The river’s isolation and exclusive concession also means that the fishing pressure is minimal, ensuring a true wilderness experience. Arctic char are known for their resilience and strength, providing a challenging yet rewarding fishing experience. Fly anglers can test their skills and techniques against these formidable fish as they navigate the swift currents and deep pools of the Napiarrisat, even with dry flies and gurglers.
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Conservation and Respect for the Environment Fishing in such a pristine environment comes with a responsibility to protect it. Visitors to Napiarrisat River are encouraged to practice catch-and-release fishing, preserving the fragile Arctic char population for future generations. It’s an opportunity to engage in ethical angling while contributing to the conservation of Greenland’s natural beauty. Fly fishing in the Napiarrisat River in Greenland offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity. From the colorful streets of Sisimiut to the breathtaking isolation of the river, this journey is a testament to the wonders of nature and the thrill of angling. As you cast your line into the crystal-clear waters, you’ll not
only encounter the incredible Arctic char but also forge a deep connection with one of the most pristine wildernesses on Earth. Greenland’s Napiarrisat River is a fly fishing destination like no other, where adventure, beauty, and conservation converge for an experience of a lifetime. The camp is composed by single tents with a big main tent to relax, dine and spend evenings all together after fantastic days of fishing. Limited to 4/5 exclusive weeks per year, July and August.
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Kamchatka
Icha River www.chavanga.com - info@justflyfishing.it
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I think that all fly-anglers dream of fishing in rivers where nobody has ever cast a fly before. Most of the Icha River in Kamchatka perfectly suit that dream. The journey from Europe is not short, a bit tiring and lasts just short of 2 days, with many hours flying, changing airports and transfers by mini vans and off-road vehicles, before you can see this wonderful river. Then you are told that the lodge is about 20 km downstream by rubber jet boat. In the end you have reached the Icha River Lodge in the north-western part of the Kamchatka peninsula.
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The miracle is when you put on your waders and make the first cast, you immediately forget all efforts it took to enter another world. For a week you live in a wonderful forest, live unrepeatable experiences, strengthen friendships, get to know characters with incredible stories and every time you cast a fly onto the water, you never know what will rise up and take it. This is Kamchatka’s true beauty. These are the things that make you selective in the choice of trips, that push you to undertake incredible transfers from one river to the other, just because you
heard that some hours away another angler caught a different type of fish, a bit bigger or a bit more suspicious. I think it is this “wishing for something new” that repeatably pushes us to look for places that are less known and less easy to reach. Icha river lodge features modern wooden cabins for 2 rods per cabin. Spacious dinner and breakfast room, outdoor terraces, drying room, sauna and toilets. Camp is located right on the river bank and makes it a comfortable stay during a week.
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Russia
Best lodges EST.
2018
Icha River
• Location: 3-hour drive from the town of Milkovo • Fish species: rainbow trout, char, kundja, coho, king, chum, sockeye • Seasonality: from July to the end of September • Temperatures: 10°C in the morning to 20°C • Number of guests per week: 15 • Arrival airport: Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky • Transfer: 4 hours to the village of Milkovo (overnight stopover), next morning 3-hour drive to the river • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: 10 m to 30 km • Recommended equipment: 9 ft #6-7 line for trout and char, 9ft #8 for salmon, maybe 12ft #8 switch for salmons • Three best flies: Pink lech, Green woolly bugger, Egg pattern for salmon • Do not forget: photo camera and a little bell for the bear. • Other: consider more time for connections in Moscow; Russian airports are slow
Well, the Icha River offers all this in just 50 kms. River flows through a mountain barrier and makes it a perfect location for a fly fishing paradise. Every day you will fish different parts of the 50 km stretch and experience different fishing techniques and methods. You must bring a 11-13-foot switch rod, because there are a lot of salmon of different species from the Pacific Ocean, as well as a 9-10 foot #7 single hand
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rod for big and crazy rainbow trout and to fish the surface with gurglers for the big white-spotted char (kundja), that not only have a strange behaviour, but eat on the surface.Most of the guides have a good level of English and knowledge of the river, they do their job with great professionalism and try to establish a good relationship with you from the beginning.
I think some areas in Russia are the last frontiers for fly-fishing and, in this regard, Kamchatka with its still-to-be-discovered rivers certainly represents this last unspoiled paradise.
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England info@justflyfishing.it
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Talking about fly fishing and chalk streams in southern England is like talking about English football and Wembley Stadium. Modern fly fishing owes a lot to the studies that have been done in this area by the great fishermen whose sacred texts we have read such as Halford, Skues, Sawyer, just to name a few. It is here that you can breathe the charm of fly fishing from other times, where it was good manners to stop after 3 or 4 catches so as not to tire the stretch of river too much, where you didn’t launch unless you saw the rise and weren’t sure to have the exact imitation of the insect in the river at that moment. The lodges along these private beats are reminiscent of this atmosphere. Here in the Test you breathe the expectant air of the evening rise, with the scent of cut lawns, low boots, Barbour jackets and bamboo rods, the only ones with which to fish, for some. Here everything is imbued with fly fishing: you can have lunch at the May Fly pub
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on the banks of the River Test, full of fishing-themed paintings and prints, and then walk through the village of Stockbridge and pass the Grosvernor Inn where, end of the 19th century, the great fishermen who arrived by train from London used to stay for their fishing days. Then wait for the evening rise near the small town of Mottisfond, where there are excellent stretches of river. This chalk stream area is fished in the River Test near the villages of Romsey and Stockbridge in private beats, very pretty and meticulously cared for by the local riverkeepers. Then we have private beats in Ichen, Avon and Anton, the tributary of the Test. There is little else to say: quality of the river, quality of the fish, quality of the local accommodation and quality of the insiders. A dive into the past of fly fishing appreciated by many.
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Best lodges EST.
2018
England
• Fish species: Brown trout, salmon and grayling • Seasonality: May to October • Number of guests per week: it depends on the stretch of river • Arrival airport: London • Transfer: by own car
• Distance between lodge and fishing areas: 10 to 30 minutes • Recommended equipment: 9 class 4, 5 • Best flies: Mayfly, Bluedun, Olive quill • Do not forget: your old Barbour jacket • Others: A place where flyfishing was born, a great atmosphere
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100
GOLDEN DORADO
River Cruiser info@h2oflyfishing.it
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Good dorado fishing on the Paraná and Uruguay river systems depends on many factors and among the most important are water levels, migrations of bait fish, rain and fishing pressure. Why not have a mothership that could be a comfortable “floating lodge”, able to provide anglers with first class lodging and services, while providing the opportunity of moving to different waters according to fishing conditions, bait fish migration, and at the same time reach very remote areas with no anglers around? The mothership is a very comfortable catamaran that is 22 meters long, 8 meters wide, with 3 decks. On the first or lower level there are 4 very comfortable twin-bedded cabins with en suite bathrooms, air conditioning and heating, 24hr electricity and TV. The second level has a spacious living room and dining room as well as a kitchen galley, outside there is a deck to relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the river. To reach the mothership, anglers usually arrive at Buenos Aires where a representative of the Golden Dorado River Cruiser pick them up either at international or local airports or at a hotel in Buenos Aires. From there, a 2.5-hour drive will bring them to a private Marina where the trip starts. Upon arrival, guests are welcome by staff and shown to their rooms, after that they will be served drinks and appetizers.
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The captain gives an introductory talk describing fishing conditions, spot that guests will fish. Then there is a general presentation of several details regarding tackle, flies, etc. The floating lodge has a vast array of tackle available to guests as well as a small fly shop supplied with most things anglers would need, plus personally-tied dorado flies. On the first day, it is possible for anglers to get in a good halfday of fishing, which is a good warm-up session after maybe a long trip. The daily schedule is usually breakfast at 8 am with a good selection of coffee, tea, yoghurt, milk, cereal, toast, fresh fruit and juice, as well as eggs cooked in whatever way guests
like. After breakfast, guests leave in pairs with their guides for the morning fishing session. Guests of Golden Dorado River Cruiser Program fish in the huge Paraná river delta, also known as the Upper Delta. This enormous area is the second biggest delta in South America after the Amazon. This unique river system has a very large and complex system of marshlands, lagoons, tributaries, creeks, islands, etc. which acts as big filter making its waters much clearer than those of the main Paraná and Uruguay rivers. This ecosystem enjoys probably the largest migrations of bait fish, tarpon and sardines, which are the main food source of golden dorado, as well as of other predatory fish like the Chafalote (in the Paraná river, Payara fish), Palometa,
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H2O BESTLODGES
Argentina
Best lodges EST.
2018
Delta Paranà • Fish species: Dorado • Seasonality: October to March • Temperatures: 15°C to 30°C • Number of guests per week: 8 • Arrival airport: Buenos Aires • Transfer: 2 hours from the airport to mothership • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: 5 minutes • Recommended equipment: rod 9 ft #7,8, floating line but bring sinking tip lines • Three best flies: black popper, Andino Deceiver, Black Woolly bugger • Do not forget: sunscreen, sunglasses • Other: probably the best collection of good wine. A super organization for an easy and trouble-free trip
Surubi (big catfish), PiraPitá, Wolf Fish, Pacú and other excellent game fish that make fishing very varied and entertaining. The best fishing period is usually from September to May, although the Golden Dorado River Cruiser Program runs all year round and it is common to have a good fishing even during winter months. During these months, anglers usually fish with floating lines and dry flies, poppers and mouse patterns for very aggressive surface strikes. Dorado are extremely aggressive hunters. If you put in a good cast close to spots such as runs
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and riffle waters or in inlets and outlets of creeks and lagoon blowouts, chances are your fly will be wildly attack by Dorado. When looking for big fish, it is common to fish deeper waters, sometimes with sinking tips and black streamers aimed at attracting bigger fish. The most common flies are a variety of deceivers with dumbbell eyes of different weights. A classic dorado fly is the “Andino Deceiver”, created by the famous Argentinian fly-tyer and designer Carlos Ingrassia, who created this pattern in the 80s and which continues to influence dorado
fishing in Argentina even today. It is also important to have a good selection of poppers, titanic flies, mouse patterns and pole dancers if you want to do some of the best freshwater fishing. I feel that this program, combining some of the best dorado fishing and other fantastic game fish, while enjoying the unique setting of a mothership lodging surrounded by nature at its best, makes for a very special trip for any kind of guest: both for hardcore experienced anglers and newcomers to the sport, as well as all family members.
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H2O BESTLODGES
South Mexico
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info@justflyfishing.it
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H2O BESTLODGES
The Yucatàn Peninsula, located southeast of Mexico, separates the waters of the gulf from the Caribbean Sea; here is the state of Quintana Roo, a fascinating territory, full of history and surrounded by nature. The karst terrain of this area gives rise to one of the most incredible natural phenomena that we can observe in nature, the cenotes, ancient caves collapsed and filled with water, mostly circular in shape, which attract large numbers of tourists from all over the world. Believed to be sacred places by the Mayan civilization, the cenotes still transmit a certain spirituality to those who visit them. This particular terrain has an incredible impact on the whole ecosystem. The sea and the cenotes are connected underground through systems of caves and lagoons. Fresh water meets the sea through the subsoil, resulting in a truly unique environment. The Costa Maya, as the Caribbean coast of Quintana Roo is
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called, offers numerous activities to tourists: archaeological sites, water sports, snorkelling, diving, night clubs and, of course, an astonishing number of fly fishing spots. The coastline is dotted with small and large lagoons, often characterized by submerged cenotes which constitute incredible spots for searching for Tarpon, where fish ranging from 3 kg up to 20 kg can be found. Fishing in the lagoons is particularly effective at dawn, especially during the incoming tide. In these moments schools of Tarpon can be seen crossing the waters of the lagoon in search of easy preys. An 8 line rod for the little ones and an always ready 10 line for the bigger fish are perfect, both rigged with a floating tail or an intermediate tip; Black death, Tarpon bunny and Whistler are very effective flies. A few good-sized Clousers and other Baitfish imitations are always handy, since in the lagoons it is easy to find even interesting-sized Snooks; for these fish we can use the same equipment that we use for Tarpon. A few tens of meters of land separate the lagoons from the beach, where small but frequent Flats characterize the seabed, creating a real show. Triggerfish and Bonefish enter the flats to feed on small crustaceans; during the first phases of the rising tide these fish are quite hungry and it is not difficult to have multiple bites of different species during the morning. It is always advisable to also have some more generously sized crab imitations and a more robust tippet with you. It is not difficult to come across medium-sized Permits patrolling the flats in search of food. These rooting fish are not the
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H2O BESTLODGES
Mexico
Best lodges EST.
2018
Punta Allen
• Fish species: Triggerfish, Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon, Snook, Barracuda, Jack Crevalle • Seasonality: Best months november to genuary, and also may for permit and tarpon • Number of guests: Max 4 rods • Arrival airport: Cancun • Transfer: Rental car, maybe bus or private cab • Distance between lodge and fishing areas: from 5 minutes to 1 hour • Recommended equipment: rod 9' class 8 to 10; all with floating line, maybe intermediate; tippet from 12 to 40 lb • Three best flies: for Bonefish, Beck's sili legs, for Tarpon Black death, and for Permit and Enrico Puglisi Mantis shrimp tan • Do not forget: Sun cream, polarised glasses, a good waterprof backpack and antimidge spray
only ones to wander undisturbed on the flats: large Barracuda populate these waters, underestimated fish in my opinion, the catch of which is not always obvious even if their aggressiveness is known. In addition to the Barracudas, it is possible to hook a good variety of carangids and other predators, such as the Pargos, porgies with wonderful colours, very aggressive and truly amusing, present inside the reef throughout the day. Mexican cuisine, although not particularly rich in ingredients, is truly amazing. The typical dishes such as chilaquiles and huaraches or the variety of meat tacos are very tasty, the fresh peppers are of the highest quality and the light and drinkable beer is an excellent combination. Late in the evening, after dinner, sitting on the beach to hear the sound of palm leaves moved by the ocean wind is priceless, an ancestral rhythm that, combined with that of the waves, makes us dream of a new day in this splendid land between forest and ocean.
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