All Fishing Spots

Fishing Spots: Los Alerces National Park

Los Alerces National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site harboring ancient alerce forests and pristine fishing waters. The park's interconnected lakes and rivers — including Río Arrayanes, Lago Rivadavia, and Lago Menéndez — offer some of the most scenic and unspoiled trout fishing in Patagonia.

5 fishing spotsBest Season: Season November to April. January-February offers warmest weather for comfortable fishing. March brings fall colors in the alerce forests creating an unforgettable backdrop. The Río Arrayanes fishes consistently throughout the season but access may be weather-dependent.

Overview

Los Alerces National Park in Chubut Province was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ancient alerce (Fitzroya) trees, some over 2,600 years old. The park also protects an extraordinary aquatic ecosystem of interconnected lakes and crystal-clear rivers. The Río Arrayanes, connecting Lago Rivadavia and Lago Verde, is considered one of the most beautiful fishing rivers in the world. Lago Rivadavia and the remote Lago Menéndez offer lake fishing in pristine wilderness. The park's strict protections maintain exceptional water quality and fish populations, creating a fishing experience that feels truly timeless.

Fishing Spots

Río Arrayanes

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, sight fishing

Season

November to April

Permit

National park + Chubut license

One of the most beautiful fishing rivers in the world, flowing through ancient alerce forest between Lago Rivadavia and Lago Verde. Crystal-clear water allows sight fishing for large trout. Strictly catch-and-release with barbless hooks required.

Access: Within the park, boat access from Lago Rivadavia

Lago Rivadavia

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, landlocked salmon

Technique

Trolling, streamer, shore casting

Season

November to April

Permit

National park + Chubut license

A stunning lake with deep, cold water holding trophy trout and salmon. Shore fishing at stream inlets and the Arrayanes outlet. Boat fishing accesses deeper water.

Access: Central area of the park, 50 km from Esquel

Lago Menéndez

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Shore casting, trolling

Season

November to April

Permit

National park + Chubut license

A remote lake accessible only by boat, surrounded by the oldest living alerce trees. Extremely low fishing pressure means wild, unsophisticated trout. A truly unique fishing experience.

Access: Boat from Lago Rivadavia (excursion)

Lago Futalaufquen

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

Technique

Trolling, shore fly fishing

Season

November to April

Permit

National park + Chubut license

The park's most accessible major lake with camping and services nearby. Good fishing from shore at several points. The park's visitor center is located here.

Access: Southern section of the park via RN 71

Río Rivadavia

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph

Season

December to March

Permit

National park + Chubut license

A short but productive river connecting two major lakes. Trout concentrate near both outlets, making for exciting fishing. Wade fishing in shallow, clear water.

Access: Connects Lago Rivadavia to Lago Futalaufquen

Regulations

Season

November 1 to April 30

Permits

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

Catch Limits

2-3 trout/day, min 25 cm. Park waters stricter.

Catch & Release

Mandatory in national park waters. Barbless hooks.

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

  • 1Los Alerces Fishing Guides — authorized park guides
  • 2Esquel Fly Fishing — guides with park access
  • 3Patagonia Ancient Forest Fishing — specialized park trips
  • 4Chubut Outfitters — full-service guided excursions

Best Season to Fish

Season November to April. January-February offers warmest weather for comfortable fishing. March brings fall colors in the alerce forests creating an unforgettable backdrop. The Río Arrayanes fishes consistently throughout the season but access may be weather-dependent.

Drive to Patagonia's Best Fishing Spots

A rental car gives you the freedom to reach remote rivers and lakes, fish at dawn, and explore pristine waters most anglers never find.

Drive to Patagonia's Best Fishing Spots

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Los Alerces really a UNESCO site?

Yes, designated in 2017 for its outstanding natural values, particularly the ancient alerce forests with trees over 2,600 years old. The pristine waterways are part of this protected ecosystem.

How do I access Río Arrayanes?

The river is within the park and typically accessed by boat across Lago Rivadavia. Guided trips coordinate boat transfers and fishing. Plan ahead as access depends on conditions.

Can I camp in the park?

Yes, several organized campgrounds exist, particularly around Lago Futalaufquen. Some areas near fishing spots have basic camping. Book in advance during January-February.

What makes this park different from other fishing areas?

The combination of UNESCO-protected ancient forests, pristine water quality, strict conservation, and extremely low fishing pressure creates an experience found nowhere else. It feels like fishing centuries ago.

Los Alerces National Park

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