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Fishing Spots: El Bolsón

El Bolsón is a charming bohemian town offering excellent fly fishing on the Río Azul and surrounding streams. Nestled in a fertile valley between mountains, it provides a relaxed base for anglers exploring the pristine waters of northern Chubut Province.

4 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
4 fishing spotsBest Season: Season runs November to April. The Río Azul fishes best from December through March when water levels stabilize. January-February are warmest with best dry fly action. March brings fall colors and less crowded waters.
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Overview

El Bolsón, located in a sun-drenched valley in northern Chubut Province, has become an increasingly popular destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. The town is famous for its artisan culture, craft beer scene, and organic farming, but it also sits at the heart of outstanding trout water. The Río Azul runs through the valley providing accessible wade fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Nearby Lago Puelo and Lago Epuyén expand the options with lake fishing, while numerous small streams offer intimate experiences for those willing to explore. The relaxed pace of life and affordable lodging make El Bolsón an excellent alternative to pricier fishing destinations in the region.

Fishing Spots

Río Azul (El Bolsón section)

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, wading

Season

November to April

Permit

Chubut provincial license

A productive freestone river running through the valley. Clear water with gravel runs, deep pools, and riffly pocket water. Good numbers of rainbow trout with occasional larger browns. Easy wading access from several road crossings.

Access: Multiple access points from town along RP 16

Lago Epuyén

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, perch

Technique

Shore casting, trolling, spinning

Season

November to April

Permit

Chubut provincial license

A scenic lake surrounded by mountains offering good fishing with less pressure. Shore fishing at stream inlets is productive. Boat fishing allows access to deeper water holding larger trout.

Access: South of El Bolsón via RP 16, approximately 15 km

Arroyo del Medio

stream

Species

rainbow trout, brook trout

Technique

Small stream dry fly fishing

Season

December to March

Permit

Chubut provincial license

A small mountain stream offering intimate fishing in a forested setting. Brook trout in upper sections, rainbows lower down. Light tackle and short casts are the norm.

Access: West of El Bolsón, trail access

Río Quemquemtreu

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Nymph, dry fly fishing

Season

November to April

Permit

Chubut provincial license

A tributary of the Río Azul offering good fishing in a less-visited setting. Wadeable throughout most of its length with reliable rainbow trout fishing.

Access: North of El Bolsón

Regulations

Season

November 1 to April 30

Permits

Chubut provincial license required. ~$20-30 USD/day.

Catch Limits

2-3 trout per day, min 25 cm. National park waters stricter.

Catch & Release

Mandatory in national park waters. Barbless hooks required.

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Gear Recommendations

5-weight fly rod (9 ft) for rivers and streams
6-weight fly rod for lakes and windy conditions
Floating fly line (WF5F) 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

  • 1El Bolsón Fly Fishing — local guides for river and lake trips
  • 2Azul Valley Outfitters — wade fishing specialists
  • 3Comarca Fishing Guides — full-day excursions with lunch

Best Season to Fish

Season runs November to April. The Río Azul fishes best from December through March when water levels stabilize. January-February are warmest with best dry fly action. March brings fall colors and less crowded waters.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is El Bolsón a good fishing destination?

Yes, while less famous than Bariloche or Junín, El Bolsón offers quality fishing in a more relaxed, affordable setting. The Río Azul provides consistent trout fishing with easy access.

Can I combine fishing with other activities?

Absolutely. El Bolsón is famous for its Tuesday/Thursday artisan market, craft breweries, hiking trails, and organic farms. Perfect for couples or families.

How far is El Bolsón from Bariloche?

Approximately 130 km south, about 2 hours by car via RN 40. Bariloche airport (BRC) is the nearest airport.

What size trout can I expect?

Average rainbow trout run 12-16 inches. Brown trout can be larger, up to 20+ inches in the deeper pools and lake.

El Bolsón

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