PRG NORTH PATAGONIA, ARGENTINA
DESTINATION BROCHURE ALL CONTENTS © TAILWATERS FLY FISHING 2014-2015
[ PRG NORTH ]
CONTENTS 4 6 20 26 32 40
DESTINATION DESCRIPTION
THE FISHING
ACCOMMODATIONS
TRAVEL & ITINERARY
WHEN TO GO
RATES
OUR TRAVEL SERVICES ARE FREE OF CHARGE! You the client don’t pay a penny for our travel services! Our destination recommendations, organization, and pre-trip planning services are completely free of charge – and oftentimes less expensive than booking direct with a lodge or outfitter. We can assist with every question, concern, or special request related to your adventure at zero cost!
BOOKING INFORMATION TRAVEL DEPARTMENT
2416 MCKINNEY AVE
DAVID@TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
DALLAS, TX. 75201
WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
(888) 824-5420
PRG NORTH QUICK HITS +
LOCATION & TRAVEL
SAN MARTIN AND JUNIN DE LOS ANDES REGIONS OF PATAGONIA. Anglers from North America travel overnight to Buenos Aires (EZE), transfer to the domestic airport (AEP) for a connecting two-hour flight to San Martin / Chapelco (SMA) with Aerolineas or Lan Airlines. From San Martin, anglers are transferred by ground to the Estancia of your choice. Most travelers elect to spend at least one night in Buenos Aires on the front end. Our concierge service and travel agents in Buenos Aires will assist with ground transfers, tours, hotel reservations, and domestic airfare with the local airlines. +
TYPE OF FISHING & SPECIES
Target species are brown, rainbow, and brook trout. PRG’s “fish a different river every day” philosophy affords anglers incredible diversity in fishing style and venue. From spring creeks, to walk and wades, all day float trips, and incredible stillwaters, PRG offers unmatched options for guests to choose with PRG and PRG North. +
SEASONALITY & WHEN TO GO
SPRING IN PATAGONIA (NOVEMBER – DECEMBER) has offered some of the best conditions each of the past three seasons, and are not months to overlook. January – March (peak summer months) are by far the most popular – yet are usually booked a year in advance. Late March marks the beginning of autumn in Patagonia and offers beautiful fall colors, spawning browns and brookies as well as quail and stag hunting options for guests. There is no bad time to visit PRG!
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IS PRG NORTH RIGHT FOR YOU?
With the abundance of fishing venues and lodging/estancia options available, PRG North can accommodate any and all group types. From the most hard-core anglers to couples looking for luxury and/ or non-angling activities (horseback, spas, ect), we can design the best custom itinerary with the proper estancia and fishing schedule for your group. PRG North is best for those interested in visiting multiple estancias or for folks who don’t have time for a full week stay. Their “Unplugged” program is also the best camping and wilderness experience in Patagonia, and the PRG North area should be considered the best dry fly region in Patagonia. +
COST & EXPENSES
5 NIGHTS / 4 DAYS FISHING AT ALL ESTANCIA’S DURING PEAK SEASON ARE $4000/PERSON. Longer and shorter visits offered. Additional expenses include but are not limited to airfare to Buenos Aires, hotel and services in Buenos Aires, Airfare to Esquel with Aerolineas, Gratuities, $160 Reciprocity Tax. See RATES for details.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDIT:
MATT JONES, DAN ARMSTRONG, ISAIAS MICIU, BRIAN O’KEEFE, ALEX KNULL
THE
DESTINATION
PRG North is the newest addition to the PRG portfolio of Patagonia fly fishing programs offering fishing in the renowned San Martin and Junin de los Andes Region. This northern Patagonia fishery is home to some of the oldest and most established estancias in the country. From the genuine working polo or sheep ranch to the super polished luxury lodge, PRG North guides out of a half dozen estancias in the region. We will assist in matching your group with the best lodges that match your needs and expectations in accommodations, non-angling activities, and fishing style.
The area offers one of the most diverse river systems in all of Patagonia and without a doubt the best dry fly fishing because the waters are rich with bug life. Like all of PRG’s signature programs, PRG North provides the finest equipment, gear, tackle, guides, and service that have set them apart for more than ten years, and PRG North has talented professional guides to host each adventure. Incredible rivers such as the Chimehuín, Aluminé, Collón Cura, Limay, and Malleo offer guests some of the finest fishing in all of South America. Classic hatches of mayflies, caddis, and stoneflies are prevalent, and other phenomenon such as world-re-
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ARGENTINA PRG NORTH DOVES - PATAGONIA, UNLIMITED ARGENTINA - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
nowned minnow runs, unique pancora crabs, and unforgettable willow worms “hatch” at distinct times of the season. Hundreds of miles of productive rivers and wide-open spaces await, and guests can choose to float and fish from PRG North’s RO drift boats or wade fish on private access. Drives can be as short as five minutes and guests can often return to the lodge for lunch and a short break before fishing the evening hatch. PRG North offers classic stays at area estancias and combing two or more is highly recommended. Every PRG North trip is custom designed based on guest’s desires for accommodation, fishing choices, non-angling activities and skill level. Trips as short as three days fishing are possible from November 1st to June 1st and any estancia stay can be combined with unique wilderness camp trips better known as PRG Unplugged. THREE REGIONS TO CHOOSE FROM PRG operates in three separate and distinct regions: the Esquel and Los Alerces National Park Area (Trevelin); The Rio Pico Area (Tres Valles Lodge); and the San Martin and Junin del los Andes Area (PRG North). PRG has unique lodges in each area and extensive fly-fishing programs covering almost all of the trout regions of Argentina. Because of the many lodging options, waters, and fishing options, we are able to customize trips to suit every guest’s desires.
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THE
FISHING
The San Martin area fished by PRG North reminds anglers more of Montana than any other fishing region in Argentina. Every river in the area, without exception flows to meet the Limay River and eventually meeting the Atlantic Ocean. Each river offers classic riffles and pools over long distances and offer some of the best dry fly fishing in Patagonia. These hard to pronounce Mapuche Indian named rives are much easier to fish than pronounce and offer variety depending on the valley they flow through. Some, like the Malleo, Filo, and Traful, are strictly waded while others like the Chimihuin, Alumine, Collon Cura, and Limay are best fished from
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PRG’s drift boats. Many of the northern rivers have daily hatches and consistent dry fly fishing is the norm. Most of the best waters are on private estancias protected by large tracks of land, but just about anywhere you can get to the water will produce beautiful rainbows and brown trout. In addition, the area is beautiful and the town of San Martin de los Andes is one of the most charming towns in all of South America, an ideal location to base a fly fishing adventure. RIO CHIMEHUIN The Rio Chimehuín begins at Lago Huechulafquen and it’s world-famous boca, where Argentina’s re-
ARGENTINA PRG NORTH DOVES - PATAGONIA, UNLIMITED ARGENTINA - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
cord brown trout of 25.5 pounds was caught. PRG
river is much more like a spring creek with small
generally fishes this river from the Estancia Tipili-
gravel and the best hatches in the entire Patagonia.
uke, a five star fishing lodge that offers many activi-
Dry fly fishing is the preferred and most effective
ties for non-fishermen also. This is great for people
way of catching fish in this magnificent river, and
who love wading above floating. Besides the water
matching the hatch is essential.
inside the private estancia, there are also several stretches of river that you can float while staying at
RIO TRAFUL
Estancia Huechahue. The river fishes very well with
This is one of the country’s most demanding rivers,
every technique, dry fly, nymphing, or using stream-
but it holds potentially big rewards. This is not a
ers.
numbers fishery, and it is possible that on some days you will catch few fish. When things turn on
RIO MALLEO
and you make the right presentation, you will have
The Rio Malleo begins at Lago Tromen and winds
the possibility of catching the fish of a lifetime. The
its way southeast thirty-five miles where it flows into
river is spectacular and it’s gin clear pools allow
the Rio Aluminé. The water ranges from quick-mov-
for the ultimate in sight fishing. There are a limit-
ing to tranquil and easy to wade, and the rainbows
ed number of rods allowed on the ranch per day
and browns vary from 16 to 20+ inches. Most of the
and wading is the only option. On this river, you will
river is mid-size freestone, except for an exception-
have shots at trophy rainbows, browns, and even a
al area in the meadows section of the Olsen’s San
Landlocked Salmon.
Huberto Ranch. In this section, the character of the
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ALUMINE
RIO LIMAY
The Rio Aluminé begins at Lago Aluminé and runs
The Limay River is getting rave reviews and many
for about a hundred miles before meeting the Rio
are saying it is one the best rivers in the world, but
Chimehuín to form Collón Cura. The Aluminé offers
careful planning is needed to enjoy the best fishing!
excellent dry fly fishing, great streamer fishing, and
The Limay around Bariloche is crowed and although
if necessary fishing nymphs can be very productive.
it may be productive at times, is better avoided. We
It’s not uncommon to catch 15-25 fish per rod each
fish this river out of the town of Piedra Del Aguila sit-
day with the average fish averaging 16 to 18 inches.
uated about an hour and a half away from San Martin
Overnight trips on these rivers are known for fine
de los Andes. From there we have access to the mid-
meals and viewing of wildlife such as guanaco and
dle section of this river (Limay Medio), where we uti-
red deer. The Alumine is best fished from Estancia
lize three different sections. This huge river provides
Huechahue.
excellent fishing on dries, nymphs, and streamers with the opportunity of catching huge brown trout
COLLON CURA
up to and sometimes exceeding thirty inches. A two
The Rio Collón Cura is the largest river in the area
or three day camping trip (PRG Unplugged) on the
and offer a little bit of everything. It maybe best
lower stretch of this section is also possible – and
known for seasonal minnow runs, willow worms,
highly recommended – to get into water that has al-
and pancora crabs, but the Collon Cura also offers
most no fishing pressure from other anglers and to
some decent hatches and one of the healthiest
enjoy great camping and nightly asados.
populations of trout in Argentina. It’s not uncommon to catch 15-25 fish per rod each day with the
RIO FLIO HUA HUM
average fish averaging 16 to 18 inches. It is ideally
The Flio Hua Hum is a short river connecting two
fished from Estancia Quemquemtreu to reach the
lakes almost exclusively inside Estancia Tres Lagos.
last 30 miles before Alicura Reservoir , but day trips
The Filo is a very scenic river that holds large brown
are also possible from other area estancias, includ-
trout as well as rainbows. This is a river that is best
ing Huechahue.
left to the experts and experienced waders since the fish are spooky and require expert presentation
CALEUFU
and stealth. The fishing is best with dry attractor
The Rio Meliquina and Rio Filo Hua Hum join to
patterns and nymphs.
create the Rio Caleufu which flows west to east 40 miles before it flows into Alicura Reservoir. The
OTHER WATERS
only way to really fish this river is a one or two night
In addition to the above rivers, PRG also has several
camping float trip since the water flows through pri-
other options to fish small rivers, spring creeks, and
vate property most of its length. The fish are not
lakes. Some of these rivers are exclusive accessed
all large on this river and average about 15-inch-
within private ranches like the Arroyo Quemque-
es. The water is beautiful though and the ability to
mtreu or the Rio Huaca Mamuil. Others are public
camp out and cover water makes it a very special
accesses that are rarely concurred by the general
trip.
public in and out of the Lanín National Park like
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ARGENTINA PRG NORTH DOVES - PATAGONIA, UNLIMITED ARGENTINA - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
the Rio Aunquinco that feeds into the Lolog Lake or the Malalco Spring Creek, which flows into the Rio Quillen. There are still more smaller and seasonal rivers and creeks like the Quilquihue, Catan Lil, and Meliquina. During the middle of summer there is also spectacular lake fishing in the San Martin Area with chances to sight fish with large dry flies to large fish like Lago Tromen, Lago Lolog, Lago Filo Hua Hum, Lago Curruhue Grande, Lago Curruhue Chico, and Lago Falkner.
GUIDE TRUCKS, BOATS & EQUIPMENT: PRG’s equipment is extensive, and it has to be to get to all the places they fish. Each guide is required to have a comfortable, safe, and rugged 4×4 – most choose the Toyota Hilux, and there is no other truck like it. Each guide also travels daily with a boat designed for the area. PRG Trevelin and Rio Pico guides use Northwest River Supply self-bailing rafts, and frames because they are light, durable, safe, and designed for fly fishing. PRG in-
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ARGENTINA PRG NORTH DOVES - PATAGONIA, UNLIMITED ARGENTINA - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
vented collapsible frames and a rack for the back of each truck so that boat can go anywhere – places those trailering a boat could only dream of. PRG North guides utilize mostly comfortable RO drift boats designed in Montana. PRG guides also have a fleet of motorboats with new low emission fourstroke motors enabling them to reach remote areas. Each guide carries nearly the same kit including (but not limited to): VHF radio to keep in constant communication, tackle bag loaded with hundreds of dozens of flies, tippet, leaders, extra reels and lines, first aide kit, and extra clothing in case of inclement weather. Each guide is also equipped with Simms waders, boots, hip pack, and backpack to use depending on the location, and can always pull out an extra pair of sunglasses, sunscreen, superglue, leatherman, etc. to provide for guests that might need something. ALL FISHING EQUIPMENT PROVIDED Clients are outfitted with any and everything they might need for their fishing trip. PRG is supported by Simms and provides their high end breathable waders and boots for any guest that might not want to travel with their own. PRG also has over 40 Winston Boron IIx, IIIx, IImx, and IIIsx six-weight rods to loan to guests for the day or for the week, and Hatch Reels loaded with RIO floating and sinking lines. Each guest is also provided with a Simms dry bag to hold extra clothing, sunscreen, license, etc. Guests should only have to pack a rain jacket, sunscreen, hat, and fishing clothing to enjoy an adventure with PRG; although, some choose to bring their own waders, rods, and reels. We encourage all guests to bring their favorite rods, reels, and custom waders, but it isn’t necessary if you just don’t want to pack a full kit.
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THE
GUIDES
THE
ACCOMMODATIONS
ESTANCIA HUECHAHUE
house where breakfast, cocktails and delicious din-
Huechahue offers guests of PRG North the best
ners are served. Accommodations are spread out
central location in the San Martin de los Andes
in two separate cabins or outbuildings as well as in
area. Huechahue is truly what a Patagonia lodge
the main lodge. Each of Huechahue’s eight rooms
should represent, and is set in the middle of a clas-
has a private bath and all the amenities guests de-
sic Argentine working estancia of approximately
sire at top lodges. Single occupancy is always given
20,000 acres allowing guests to enjoy an authen-
to PRG’s guests when available – at no extra cost!
tic cultural as well as unique estancia experience. From Huechahue, PRG North has the opportunity
Guests will also enjoy a sauna, jacuzzi, and an in-
to fish a different river daily and choices such as:
credible “quincho” where the famous “asados”
Chimehuín, Malleo, Collón Cura, Quilquihue, Catán
take place around an enormous and elaborated fire
lil, Filo Hua Huam, Tromen Lake, and Aluminé are
pit. Estancia Huechahue is known as one of the fin-
possible. The lodge consists of a spacious main
est estancias for horseback riding in all of Patagonia
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ARGENTINA PRG NORTH DOVES - PATAGONIA, UNLIMITED ARGENTINA - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
and fabulous rides can easily be arranged from one day to the next. Other non-fishing activities such as: visiting the town of San Martín de los Andes, bird watching, day hikes on site, art tours, golf, and other cultural tours are easily put together making the non-fishers’ stay at Huechahue as fun and exciting as the fishers. Trips as short as 4 days can easily be arranged at Huechahue, and exciting and diverse extended stays can also be added on, including deluxe overnight camping trips and stays at other area estancias. Guests can also combine with PRG’s exclusive Lodge at Trevelin to make their trip the ultimate in variety and scenery. ESTANCIA QUEMQUEMTREAU Estancia Quemquemtreu is one of the largest ranches in the area encompassing close to 200,000 acres. Quemquemtreu is one of the most beautiful and interesting working ranches in Patagonia. The estancia has over 3000 mother cows and a total of more than 5000 head of Hereford cattle. Your hosts, Paula and Martín Zimmermann, make you feel at home the moment you arrive and their incredible service and laid-back attitudes provide for a very casual and satisfying experience. Their lodge has five spacious and very comfortable double rooms located in a wing off of the dining room and in a separate building, only 100 feet away, another 3 rooms are being added to give the guests more possibilities for single rooming if desired–without going over their 12 rod capacity. The lodge also features a cozy sitting room centered around a rock fireplace. The bar is located in another separate building (there are over 30 buildings at the estancia headquarters) where you will enjoy a wide variety of hors d’oeuvres, wine, or the drink of your choice before heading for dinner.
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ESTANCIA HUECHAHUE
ESTANCIA QUEMQUEMTREAU
ARROYO VERDE
TIPILIUKE
SAN HUBERTO
From Quemquemtreu, PRG North can fish more
SAN HUBERTO
than twenty miles of the Collón Cura River, one
The San Huberto Lodge is the best lodging choice
of the most productive fishing rivers in Argentina.
when fishing the legendary Malleo River. This beauti-
Floating is the preferred method to fish this river
ful lodge was completely renovated in 1999 and has
because of its size, and covering large portions of
room for up to sixteen guests, only a maximum of
water is the norm. Lodging at this ranch also gives
twelve anglers at a time. The service is superb as are
exclusive access to the Quemquemtreu Creek, an
the meals. The lodge includes an in-house bar, hot
intimate walk wading stream, which fishes best in
tub, masseuse, a “quincho” for the Sunday “asados”
the months of November, December, early Janu-
and all the amenities of a five-star fishing lodge. San
ary, and also during the month of May. Quemque-
Huberto is a household name when speaking of fly
mtreu is going through some landscaping projects
fishing in Patagonia and space is limited so book-
and for those who have already visited the lodge
ing in advance is a must. Guests have access to over
at Estancia Quemquemtreu, you will see immense
twenty miles of incredible wade fishing and private
improvements on the lodge grounds.
access to some of the best sections of the Malleo River and Huaca Mamuil Creek, famous for its dry-fly
TIPILIUKE
fishing and only accessible if staying at the lodge.
Tipiliuke Lodge is located on the Estancia Cerro de los Pinos (over 50,000 acres) owned by the
ARROYO VERDE
Larminat family. This five-star lodge is recognized
Estancia Arroyo Verde sits on one of the most mag-
as being one of the finest in the world. It is distin-
ical valleys in the Argentina and alongside the gin-
guished for it’s all around service, accommodation,
clear Trafúl. The main house accommodates up to
and food as well as having over nine-miles of the
ten guests, while a separate cabin overlooking the
Chimehuín River. In addition to the Chimehuín,
Lake Trafúl provides guests with a unique private
there is also a large stretch of the Quilquihue River
experience. The service here is truly deluxe and the
running through the ranch. Tipiliuke is one of the
lodging elegant. This location is very popular with
best choices for wading and the longest drive to
guests traveling with non-fishing spouses offering
the river from the lodge is less than ten minutes.
additional activities such as horseback riding, hiking,
This lodge takes sixteen guests but only twelve
and bird watching. The only way to fish the Trafúl
rods are allowed at any time. Tipiliuke is well lo-
River is to stay on this ranch containing just over ten
cated for non-fishermen being only a twenty-five
miles of river starting at Trafúl Lake. Charles Gaines,
minute drive away from the town of San Martín de
writer for Forbes magazine probably summed the
los Andes, making a visit into town a very pleas-
lodge up best saying, “Since childhood I have visit-
ant morning or afternoon trip. Tipiliuke is one of
ed a truly shocking number of fishing lodges and not
the best options for the non-fishing guest offering
one of them was ever as good as Arroyo Verde”. As
horseback riding, trekking, bird watching and other
great as the lodge is, the river is just as challenging.
activities as well as a sauna and masseuse. Its close
Trophy fish can be landed on the Trafúl but the river
proximity to the Chapelco Golf Resort makes golf-
will hand out just as many “skunks” as trophies. It is
ing at one of the best Jack Nicklaus designed golf
not for everyone but everything a fishing lodge and
course in South America possible as well.
river should be for others. Let us help you decide.
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ARGENTINA DOVES UNLIMITED - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
ESTANCIA TRES LAGOS
In addition to oversize cots and tents, our camps
Estancia Tres Lagos is a privately owned cattle ranch
come with a professional chef to prepare delicious
located forty miles southwest of San Martín de los
meals, hot pressurized water for showers, private
Andes in the Lanín National Park. The Fernandez
bathroom facilities, unique 12-volt lighting system,
Beschtedt family have been in the area for many
spacious wall tent for dining, and hundreds of thou-
generations and you can immediately feel this as
sands of acres of wilderness. Camping is often the
you enter the main house. The estancia offers some
highlight of the whole trip, and for those who like
of the most spectacular scenery in northern Pata-
to fish a few more hours or skip the chit chat at the
gonia, while extending over eighty thousand acres
lodges, this is the perfect opportunity to fish until
of land. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are first class
dark. Each day, our assistants pack up, move, and
and are enjoyed at the main house. Three beau-
reassemble the camp in a new location. Everything
tiful cabins, which were built about ten years ago,
is ready for clients’ arrival including a crackling fire,
surround the home and overlook the Filo Hua Hum
snacks, and a full bar. Fruit, cereals, and eggs to or-
Lake. Waking up in the morning and looking out the
der are ready for breakfast before guests grab their
window provides an unforgettable moment. Three
rods and throw their first casts from our custom drift
lakes surround the estancia: Lago Falkner, Lago
boats.
Nuevo and Lago Filo Hua Hum. The Filo Hua Hum River flows from the Lago Nuevo to Lago Filo Hua
PRG Unplugged programs are easily combined
Hum Lake for about eight miles though the prop-
with other PRG programs. Please contact us for
erty and holds trophy brown trout (some resident
more information and to set up a custom trip for
and some that migrate between lakes). As great as
a small group. Minimum of (4) anglers required to
it sounds, this is a location best suited for expert
share a private camp and a maximum of (8) allowed
wade fishermen who enjoy sight fishing.
on our exclusive trips.
PRG UNPLUGGED (OVERNIGHT AND MULTIDAY CAMPING FLOAT TRIPS) PRG Unplugged offers those wanting to get away from it all overnight float trips on area rivers such as the Chimehuín, Limay Medio, Aluminé and Chubut. Guests enjoy a completely catered multi-day camping trip offering long days and incredible fishing without any drive time. Guests will normally cover between ten and twelve miles daily and always float into a new campsite daily. Our camps are “deluxe” and have been designed for our guests’ comfort and enjoyment.
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TRAVEL & ITINERARY Guests travel to Buenos Aires via direct overnight flight from several U.S. cities including New York, Miami, Houston, and Dallas/Ft. Worth International airports --- arriving into Buenos Aires the following morning. Guests traveling straight through then gather their luggage, clear customs, and are met by a driver who transfers the group across town to the Domestic Airport (AEP) for the flight to Esquel, Bariloche, or San Martin de los Andes (depending on itinerary and fishing program) aboard Aerolineas Argentinas. Most travelers elect to spend the day and evening in Buenos Aires prior to departing for Patagonia the following morning. If you have the
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time, B.A.’s nightlife, restaurants, museums, culture, and shopping are well worth the effort. This is a great way to break up the two legs of the journey, do some sightseeing, and recharge your batteries. Tailwaters uses a very reliable local travel agent who lends a hand with domestic airfare as well as customs assistance and chauffeur service that provides ground transfers for all our clients in Buenos Aires. They can also facilitate reservations at all the nicest hotels in Buenos Aires, and can also lend a hand with restaurant reservations, city tours, and other side trips. Upon arrival in Patagonia, all PRG groups are met by a representative from Patagonia River Guides
ARGENTINA PRG NORTH DOVES - PATAGONIA, UNLIMITED ARGENTINA - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
and transferred to your Estancia of choice. NOTE ABOUT LOL ARGENTINA (OUR BUENOS AIRES CONCIERGE) Gaia and LOL Argentina is our recommended choice for assistance in Buenos Aires. In addition to booking your domestic flights in Argentina, one of the many services LOL provides is complete airport assistance, which is invaluable for most non-Spanish speakers. Gaia and her staff provide meet and greet services at the international and domestic airports, informative transfers within the city, assistance checking in at airports, solutions to delayed flights, and can perform miracles at times with any other issues that might arise. If you use LOL’s service, you can also think of them as your personal concierge to the city of Buenos Aires. They can recommend and make dinner reservations, get you tickets to events, show you around the city, take you shopping (or shop for you), change local currency (for a better rate), answer questions, or just enjoy a drink and get to know you. Please count on Gaia and her staff to provide you with a memorable experience in Buenos Aires. None of LOL’s services are included in the price of PRG’s trip and we will make all intros with LOL and assist in making all these arrangements.
DEPARTURE DAY Evening overnight flight to Buenos Aires. Arrival into Buenos Aires the next morning.
SAMPLE ITINERARY
DAY #2 - ARRIVE BUENOS AIRES
Sample Travel Itinerary for 7 Night / 6 Day Package
Upon arrival at Buenos Aires’ International Airport
The following itinerary demonstrates the traditional
(EZE), anglers gather their luggage, clear customs,
travel schedule with an evening in Buenos Aires pri-
and are met by a driver who transfers the group ap-
or to pushing onward to Patagonia. The following
proximately one hour to a hotel downtown. Guests
itinerary also reflects the travel involved for visiting
have the option of taking guided tours, organized
PRG North via San Martin (SMA). Guests of Trevelin
dinner plans, tango shows, and a night on the town
and Tres Valles travel through Esquel (ESQ).
in B.A escorted by our concierge partners at LOL Argentina.
NOTE: FLIGHTS FROM BUENOS AIRES (AEP) TO SAN MARTIN (SMA) ARE DAILY EXCEPT THURSDAYS.
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DAY #3 – TRAVEL TO SAN MARTIN OR BARILOCHE
START TRAVELING HOME
Guests are collected at their hotel mid morning
After breakfast guests are transferred back to San
and driven 10-15 minutes to the domestic airport
Martin or Bariloche Airport for the flight to Buenos
for the flight to Esquel, Argentina aboard a local
Aires.
carrier such as Aerolineas Argentina or Lan Airlines. Tailwaters uses a very reliable customs assistance
Guests are then picked up at the domestic airport
and chauffeur service that operates comfortable,
(AEP) and transferred back to the International Air-
air-conditioned vans. Our staff of drivers make sure
port (EZE) and assisted through check-in for your
you are properly checked in for your two-hour do-
flight on to the United States. Overnight flight back
mestic flight to San Martin or Bariloche.
to USA.
Upon arrival in San Martin or Bariloche, the group
ARRIVE HOME
is then met at the baggage claim and driven to the
Early morning arrival back in the U.S.
Estancia of your choosing. FISHING DAYS Full fishing and exploring days with PRG North and continued overnight.
NOTE ABOUT CUSTOM ITINERARIES WITH PRG NORTH Guests of PRG North are encouraged to visit multiple estancias. This allows you to enjoy access to new water and have a change of scenery. If a week is not enough, combine multiple venues ranging from the Estancias up north to Trevelin as well as Rio Pico. Every fly fishing trip booked by Tailwaters Travel to PRG is custom designed for the angler based on their desires; and because they have several lodging and dozens of fishing choices, we can easily match each guest with exactly what they want. Changes can easily be made to schedules depending on conditions and desires when guests arrive. Some may choose to repeat a river or venue, some may choose to do more floating or wading, and some may choose to take a day to enjoy non-fishing activities. PRG’s philosophy has always been to give guests the ultimate in variety allowing them to experience different kinds of fishing such as floating and wading; big rivers and small rivers; lakes and spring creeks. Trips as short at 4 nights can easily be arranged, but taking advantage of the travel to get there is highly recommended. A weeklong trip goes by in a flash leaving most wanting a few more days. There is no other operator in Argentina that can provide the variety or quality of fishing as PRG. Contact us today to get more information or dream up your own custom trip and we can propose numerous itineraries to consider with seamless connections between each region.
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www.tailwatersflyfishing.com WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
WHEN TO GO SPRING (NOV 1ST TO JANUARY 1ST):
and accessible. Fishing is generally spectacular
The fishing season officially opens in Argentine
but flexibility is a must as streamers, dry flies, and
Patagonia on November 1st. Spring is a special
nymphs are all used depending on the river levels
time to visit Patagonia as the Andes Mountains still
and daily weather conditions. Large flies normally
hold a good amount of snow and valleys are cov-
concocted with rubber legs, long hackles, bunny
ered with spring flowers. Precipitation decreases
fur, foam--you name it (chernoble’s, garbage, junk,
throughout the spring and average temperatures
bichos, mutant’s, big foam, etc.)—can be thrown
rise along with the length of day until the summer
and are very effective this time of the year due to
solstice on December 21st. Area fisheries are full
the aggressive nature of the fish and the lack of
of water, but almost every stream is fishable after
pressure. You can leave your 5X at home but be
December 1st due to the many river-lake systems in
sure to bring some 0X and even a sink tip to go
the area. Since the water is higher this time of the
down and dirty. Your guide will be as anxious as
year, the largest fish tend to be more aggressive
you are as they have been waiting all winter for the
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ARGENTINA PRG NORTH DOVES - PATAGONIA, UNLIMITED ARGENTINA - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
fishing season to open. Tourism season begins after Christmas and the New Year so the area is much more relaxed and the fish are very willing. PRG normally offers a pre-season rate to attract clients during this time, not because of poor fishing, but because the holiday season tends to keep most anglers at home. If you’re looking for a great place to spend the holidays, imagine long days, great fishing, energetic guides, and a very relaxed atmosphere with few people. SUMMER (JANUARY 1ST TO MARCH 15TH): Summer is the most popular season for fishing and tourism in Patagonia. Kids are on vacation and tourists abound. The weather is the best this time of the year with the warmest temperatures. Some snow remains on the highest Andes peaks and almost all the spring flowers are already gone. The grass is growing, and with warmer temperatures— you guessed it—hoppers and terrestrial insects are prolific and dry fly fishing is at its best. There are uncountable species of beetles, ants, hoppers, crickets, wasps, and other unidentified flying objects this time of the year and the trout are looking for them. Take note of a South American phenomenon: the hottest, brightest, and clearest days are the best dry fly and fishing days! Yes, it’s true, a bluebird-fisherman’s dream! All of the above being said about fish looking to slam dry flies is true, but presentation is key on some streams as fish have seen a few gypsy kings, fat alberts, chernoble ants, hoppers, etc…..and they are as suspicious as they are aggressive this time of the year. You might have to drop down to 3X, 4X, and occasionally even 5X and use a dropper to attract fish in the crystal clear water. You will have lots of sight fishing opportunities and wet wading is possible a majority of the time. Water levels continue to drop and water temperatures rise this time of year. Every fishery is
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open and in perfect shape giving you the most op-
and hog spot to try to catch every last fish before
tions for the “fish a different river every day” philos-
they have to put away their gear for winter. You will
ophy that PRG follows throughout the season. This
enjoy the coziness of the lodges, the fall foods, and
is Prime Time and getting a spot with PRG is not
the fireside conversations with some of the most
easy. Repeat customers reserve most spots year
passionate fishermen in the world. If you can get a
after year, but If you can get a spot, you won’t be
spot, you’ll be thrilled to wake up to cool and clear
disappointed!
mornings, fall colors, and snowcapped peaks while getting ready for the ultimate fly fishing adventure
FALL (MARCH 15TH TO MAY 1ST) Fall is the favorite of many anglers, and it is a great time to visit Patagonia. Summer tourist traffic drops off completely and anglers once again have a vast wilderness to themselves. Temperatures starts to decrease, which normally brings on the fall feeding frenzy of area trout. Brown trout and brook trout are getting ready to spawn and many of those larger fish, which migrated back into the lake during the middle of summer, are headed back to the river to feed or spawn. Fall colors in Patagonia are spectacular and if you are lucky enough to be able to come and enjoy the fall, you will probably become addicted to the beauty, the tranquility and the fishing. Although the days are not as long as the spring and the summer, you still get plenty of time on the water. In fact, you might actually get more fishing as the guides are excited this time of the year. PRG gets a second wind like no other and scours every last honey hole, secret spot, sure bet,
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PRG NORTH - PATAGONIA, ARGENTINA
that PRG offers!
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NON-ANGLING ACTIVITIES Patagonia River Guides has a great deal to offer in addition to world-class fly fishing. Non-fishing guests or those who simply want to take a day off from fishing, can enjoy relaxing around the lodge or choose from a variety of guided activities including: walking, hiking or biking in or around Patagonia’s national parks; horseback riding on one of the area estancias; bird watching with an ornithologist; massage and holistic healing activities with professional therapist; whitewater rafting or scenic float trips; area cultural tours; shopping for local arts, crafts and gifts; visits across the border to Chile; and on-site cooking classes.
tended stays to unique destinations such as Iguazu Falls, the glaciers in the South, the charming Northwest region of Argentina, the endless pampas and of course, wine tours in Mendoza and wingshooting trips. Please let us help you create your trip of a lifetime to Argentina! ACTIVITIES LIST Patagonia River Guides has a great deal to offer in addition to world-class fly fishing. Non-fishing guests or those who simply want to take a day off from fishing, can enjoy relaxing around the lodge or choose from a variety of guided activities including:
Non-fishers are just as important as the fishermen and a complete itinerary will be prepared with as few or as many activities as the non-fisher would like. Please contact us for a complete schedule and options for non-fishing programs. EXTENDED STAYS For those who want to enjoy more of Argentina than just the spectacular fishing in Patagonia, PRG, in partnership with some of the best travel experts in the USA and Argentina, is pleased to arrange ex-
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PRG NORTH - PATAGONIA, ARGENTINA
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Day hikes Horseback riding Mountain Biking 4x4 Expeditions National Park visits Cultural Visits and Tours Bird Watching Tours to Chile Museums and Art Visits Artisanal Fairs Float trips and white water trips Spa activities Golf Estancia visits and activities Cooking classes
CAST AND BLAST OPTIONS WITH PRG AT TREVELIN
PRG has six well-trained English and Elhew pointers
In addition to their world-class fly fishing programs,
two hunters and safety is the highest priority! PRG
PRG also offers some of the finest wild quail and
provides Beretta Urika 391 Automatic 20-gauge
red stag hunting in South America allowing guests
shotguns w/ interchangeable chokes and shells for
the unique opportunity to combine fly fishing and
each guest for a small fee. Guests should pack field
hunting from the same lodge starting March 15th.
pants, high quality field-hunting boots, and game
Cast and Blast trips can be arranged for as few as
bag or vest (with hunters orange). Shooting glass-
four days, but it is recommended to spend a full
es and gloves are optional. If you would prefer to
week to try three or four different and unique riv-
bring your own gun, as many do, we can help you
ers and two to three days of quail hunting. Guests
with the paperwork and getting your gun into Ar-
could easily fish a full week and never fish the same
gentina. The process is straightforward and Argen-
river twice and PRG has over 100,000 acres leased
tina is hunter friendly.
and professional guides to handle the dogs and execute great hunts. One guide is provided for every
for quail hunting. For those guests’ wishing to fish, quail hunt, and stalk red stag, we recommend ei-
It is also possible to hunt Red Stag from PRG’s
ther a nine or ten night program to allow time to
Lodge at Trevelin on a private 10,000-acre estancia
dedicate to all three species.
fifteen minutes from the lodge during March, April, and May. The rut is typically from March 15th to
Guests should be physically fit and enjoy easy to
April 15th depending on weather and other fac-
moderate walking to hunt quail with guides and
tors. Red Stag hunting is easily combined along
pointing dogs. Hunting wild quail the traditional
with all of PRG’s trout and quail programs. The stag
way – with a dog and a gun -- is a fulfilling experi-
average an impressive 198 points CIC (similar to a
ence and there are few places one can still do that
340 SCI elk), and trophy fees start at only $3000 for
today. Argentina’s California Quail bob and weave
animals up to 200 points CIC. If you have wanted
from bush to bush and prefer to run; however, once
to hunt a red stag and don’t have the full week to
pinned down by the dogs, they are quick to fly and
dedicate to the program, this might be a wonder-
very challenging for the average hunter. A good
ful opportunity to hunt a trophy. Archery hunts can
shot should expect between six and dozen quail
be arranged for guests, but archery hunters should
per day and most shoot over a box of shells per
be experienced and rather self-sufficient. The pri-
outing. As with everything in fishing and hunting,
vate ranch provides a ranch guide for each hunter
some shoot a whole box and bag just a few quail
(extra charge of $150 per client per day + license),
so assigning a number per day is arbitrary. That’s
and PRG handles all logistics, food, beverage and
hunting but trust us when we say the birds are not
lodging. Hunters will want to have hunting clothing
your kick-and-shoot pen raised birds, they are chal-
(camo is preferred for stalking), hunting boots, and
lenging and there are many.
binoculars. The ranch will provide guns and those who want to bring their own should inquire for information on the process.
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RATES ESTANCIA HUECHAHUE NOVEMBER 1 – DECEMBER 31, 2014 (Based on Shared Room / Guide)
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7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing ………………..$5250 per person 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing ………………..$4500 per person 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing ………………..$3750 per person 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing ………………..$3000 per person 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing ………………..$2250 per person
(Based on Private Room / Guide)
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7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing ………………..$7875 per person 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing ………………..$6750 per person 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing ………………..$5625 per person 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing ………………..$4500 per person 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing ………………..$3375 per person
JANUARY 1 – MAY 1, 2015 (Based on Shared Room / Guide)
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7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing ………………..$5600 per person 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing ………………..$4800 per person 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing ………………..$4000 per person 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing ………………..$3200 per person 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing ………………..$2400 per person
(Based on Private Room / Guide)
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7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing ………………..$8400 per person 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing ………………..$7200 per person 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing ………………..$6000 per person 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing ………………..$4800 per person 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing ………………..$3600 per person
ARGENTINA PRG NORTH DOVES - PATAGONIA, UNLIMITED ARGENTINA - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
ALL OTHER ESTANCIAS NOVEMBER 1, 2014 – MAY 1, 2015 (Based on Shared Room / Guide)
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7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing ………………..$5950 per person 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing ………………..$5100 per person 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing ………………..$4250 per person 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing ………………..$3400 per person 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing ………………..$2550 per person
(Based on Private Room / Guide)
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7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing ………………..$8925 per person 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing ………………..$7650 per person 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing ………………..$6375 per person 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing ………………..$5100 per person 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing ………………..$3825 per person
TRAVEL INSURANCE! Given the inherent strict refund policies associated
We will provide you with more detailed information
with nearly all fishing packages, we cannot stress the
about travel insurance from our sponsored provider,
importance of obtaining travel insurance to protect
Travel Guard, when you book a trip with Tailwaters
your investment.
Travel. We can conveniently process a very comprehensive
Travellers can obtain coverage for pre-existing health
insurance policy for you in-house after asking a few
problems (related to yourself, your family, business
simple questions.
partners, or your travelling partners), emergency evacuation, lost baggage, delay, life insurance
CALL TODAY TO PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT:
packages; even “no questions asked” or “for work
(214) 219-2500 OR (888) 824-5420
reasons” coverage.
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PRG UNPLUGGED NOVEMBER 1, 2014 – MAY 1, 2015 (Based on Shared Room / Guide)
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7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing ………………..$4900 per person 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing ………………..$4200 per person 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing ………………..$3500 per person 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing ………………..$2800 per person 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing ………………..$2100 per person
(Based on Private Room / Guide)
»» »» »» »» »»
7 Nights / 6 Days Fishing ………………..$7350 per person 6 Nights / 5 Days Fishing ………………..$6300 per person 5 Nights / 4 Days Fishing ………………..$5250 per person 4 Nights / 3 Days Fishing ………………..$4200 per person 3 Nights / 2 Days Fishing ………………..$3150 per person
TRANSFERS TO BARILOCHE (FROM ESQUEL OR SAN MARTIN): $250/car (2-3 passengers) $500/van (4+ passengers) Charter Flights Possible from Esquel and San Martin (ask for quote) WHAT’S INCLUDED Accommodations, all meals, house drinks, local transportation, professional guide, assistant guide, private water fees, and fishing license. Includes all flies, terminal tackle, and loaner equipment such as: Winston Rods, Simms waders, Simms wading boots, and Hatch Reels with lines. WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED Airfare to Buenos Aires, Argentina; Meals, Lodging and other expenses in Buenos Aires as outlined by LOL Argentina; Airfare to Esquel, Argentina from Buenos Aires with Aerolineas; Guide and Staff Gratuities; Specialty liquors & Cigars; $160 Reciprocity Fee; Airport Departure Taxes; Overweight baggage expenses; Items of personal nature such as telephone calls; Laundry service; Ground transfers from the Bariloche Airport if applicable. TERMS & CONDITIONS Tailwaters Travel must adhere to the cancellation policies of the guides, outfitters and lodges which it represents. Patagonia River Guides’ policy follows: A non-refundable 50% deposit is required to secure all reservations. Final balance is due 90 days prior to departure. All deposits are non-refundable unless clients
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ARGENTINA DOVES UNLIMITED - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
can be replaced. Full payment may be transferred to another guest for original dates. PRG reserves the right to charge a handling fee of $500 per person for date changes after initial reservation has been made. No credits or refunds are given for fishing time lost due to inclement weather. Refunds of deposits/payments made on credit cards will be charged a 3.5% service charge to fully compensate Tailwaters Travel for all bank charges incurred. Receipt of deposit and/or final payment is acknowledgement that registrant has read and accepts the cancellation, refund and responsibility clauses.
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WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM FIND US:
TAILWATERS FLY FISHING CO.
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TRAVEL DEPARTMENT
2416 MCKINNEY AVE
DAVID@TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
DALLAS, TX. 75201
WWW.TAILWATERSFLYFISHING.COM
(888) 824-5426
Palometa Club - Ascension Bay, Mexico ARGENTINA DOVES UNLIMITED - NORTHWESTERN ARGENTINA
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