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Fishing Spots: Chile Chico

Chile Chico is a sun-drenched town on the southern shore of Lago General Carrera, offering excellent trout fishing in a warm microclimate unique to Patagonia. The lake, local rivers, and proximity to the Argentine border make it a versatile fishing base.

3 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
4 fishing spotsBest Season: Season October to May. The warm microclimate means fishing is comfortable even in early and late season. December-February is peak. The Jeinimeni area is best accessed in January-March when roads are driest.
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Overview

Chile Chico sits on the southern shore of Lago General Carrera, enjoying Patagonia's warmest and driest microclimate thanks to its sheltered position. The town serves as a lesser-known fishing base for exploring the lake's southern waters and nearby rivers. The Río Jeinimeni and Reserva Nacional Jeinimeni provide pristine fishing in a stunning landscape of colorful rock formations and turquoise waters. Being on the border with Argentina, some anglers use Chile Chico as a crossing point to fish both countries. The town's friendly atmosphere and affordable accommodation make it an appealing alternative to busier Chilean destinations.

Fishing Spots

Lago General Carrera (southern shore)

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Shore casting, trolling, streamer

Season

October to May

Permit

SERNAPESCA license

The southern shore offers different conditions from the north. Warm microclimate means comfortable fishing. Shore access at several beaches and rocky points. River mouths are especially productive.

Access: Town sits on the lake shore

Río Jeinimeni

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, wading

Season

November to April

Permit

SERNAPESCA license

A beautiful river flowing through colorful rock formations in the Jeinimeni Reserve. Clear water with willing trout. The stunning geology makes this a uniquely scenic fishing experience.

Access: South of Chile Chico toward Reserva Jeinimeni

Reserva Nacional Jeinimeni lakes

lake

Species

rainbow trout

Technique

Shore casting, fly fishing

Season

November to March

Permit

SERNAPESCA license + reserve entry

Remote mountain lakes within the reserve offering solitary fishing for wild rainbow trout. Requires some effort to reach but rewards with untouched water and spectacular scenery.

Access: South of Chile Chico, 4WD recommended

Río Ibáñez mouth

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Streamer, nymph

Season

November to April

Permit

SERNAPESCA license

The mouth of the Río Ibáñez where it enters the lake is a prime fishing spot. Fish congregate where river current meets the lake, especially during salmon runs.

Access: North along the lake shore by road

Regulations

Season

Oct to May

Permits

SERNAPESCA license. ~$15-25 USD/season.

Catch Limits

2-5 trout/day, min 25 cm.

Catch & Release

Increasingly common. Barbless recommended.

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Gear Recommendations

5-weight fly rod (9 ft) for rivers
6-weight fly rod for lakes and wind
Floating fly line with sink-tip option
Leaders 9-12 ft, tippet 3X to 6X
Breathable waders and wading boots
Dry flies: Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Royal Wulff
Nymphs: Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Prince Nymph
Streamers: Woolly Bugger, Zonker, Muddler Minnow
Polarized sunglasses
Landing net with rubber mesh

Guides & Outfitters

  • 1Chile Chico Fishing — local guides for lake and rivers
  • 2Jeinimeni Expeditions — guided trips into the reserve
  • 3Patagonia Sur Guides — fishing and adventure packages

Best Season to Fish

Season October to May. The warm microclimate means fishing is comfortable even in early and late season. December-February is peak. The Jeinimeni area is best accessed in January-March when roads are driest.

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Explore more: Chile Chico

📅Best Time to Visit🚗Car Rental🏨Where to Stay🌤️Weather Guide📍Destination Guide

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Chile Chico unique?

It has Patagonia's warmest microclimate, making fishing comfortable. The colorful Jeinimeni geology and proximity to Argentina add variety.

Can I cross to Argentina from Chile Chico?

Yes, the border crossing at Chile Chico/Los Antiguos is straightforward. Los Antiguos on the Argentine side also offers fishing on Lago Buenos Aires.

Is 4WD needed for the Jeinimeni Reserve?

Recommended but not always necessary. Check road conditions locally. A high-clearance vehicle is the minimum for reserve access.

How do I get to Chile Chico?

Small airport with limited flights. Most visitors drive from Coyhaique via Carretera Austral (6-7 hours) or cross from Argentina.

Chile Chico

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