All Fishing Spots

Fishing Spots: Parque Nacional Lanín

Parque Nacional Lanín protects some of Argentina's finest fishing waters, from the iconic Chimehuin and Malleo rivers to pristine volcanic lakes beneath the majestic Lanín Volcano. This national park is the heart of Patagonian trout fishing.

5 fishing spotsBest Season: Season November to April. December is excellent for dry fly on the Malleo. January-February brings warm weather and consistent lake fishing. March-April offer trophy fishing with autumn colors and the stunning backdrop of snow-capped Lanín Volcano.

Overview

Lanín National Park in Neuquén Province encompasses over 400,000 hectares of pristine Andean-Patagonian landscape, dominated by the 3,776-meter Lanín Volcano. The park protects an extraordinary network of rivers and lakes that form the backbone of Argentina's trout fishing heritage. Within its boundaries flow the legendary Río Chimehuin and Río Malleo — two of South America's most celebrated trout streams. Lakes Huechulafquen, Paimún, Curruhué, and Lolog provide diverse stillwater fishing. The park's strict conservation policies have maintained exceptional fish quality, making it a pilgrimage destination for serious fly fishers worldwide.

Fishing Spots

Río Chimehuin (park section)

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, streamer

Season

November to April

Permit

Provincial license + park permit

The upper Chimehuin within the park offers wilder fishing than the town sections. Trophy rainbows and browns in a pristine wilderness setting. The river emerges from Lago Huechulafquen creating perfect trout habitat.

Access: Via RP 61 from Junín de los Andes

Río Malleo

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, sight casting, nymph

Season

November to April

Permit

Special Malleo permit + provincial license

Entirely within or adjacent to the park, the Malleo is a world-famous spring creek. Selective brown trout demand technical precision. Strict catch-and-release maintains trophy fish quality.

Access: North via RP 23 from Junín

Lago Huechulafquen

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, landlocked salmon

Technique

Trolling, streamer, shore casting

Season

November to April

Permit

Provincial license + park permit

The park's largest lake set beneath Lanín Volcano. Deep waters hold trophy trout and salmon. River mouths and shallow bays are productive for fly fishing.

Access: RP 61 from Junín, 25 km

Lago Curruhué

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Fly fishing from shore, float tube

Season

November to April

Permit

Provincial license + park permit

A scenic lake with hot springs nearby. Less visited than Huechulafquen, offering peaceful fishing. Good shore access with productive bays.

Access: Via RP 62 south of Junín

Lago Lolog

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

Technique

Trolling, shore casting

Season

November to April

Permit

Provincial license

A beautiful lake on the park's eastern edge. Good fishing with moderate pressure. Scenic setting with forest and mountain views.

Access: North of San Martín via RP 62

Regulations

Season

November 1 to April 30

Permits

Neuquén provincial license. ~$25-40 USD/day.

Catch Limits

2-3 trout/day, min 25 cm.

Catch & Release

Mandatory on premium 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

  • 1Lanín Park Fishing Guides — authorized park guides
  • 2San Huberto Lodge — full-service near the park
  • 3Chimehuin River Lodge — specialized park water guides
  • 4Junín Outfitters — guides with park access permits

Best Season to Fish

Season November to April. December is excellent for dry fly on the Malleo. January-February brings warm weather and consistent lake fishing. March-April offer trophy fishing with autumn colors and the stunning backdrop of snow-capped Lanín Volcano.

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

Explore More

Discover more guides and resources for this destination

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special permit for the national park?

Yes, fishing within Lanín National Park requires a national park fishing permit in addition to the Neuquén provincial license. Available at park ranger stations and some shops in Junín.

Is there camping in the park near fishing spots?

Yes, several organized campgrounds are located near fishing areas, particularly around Lago Huechulafquen and Lago Paimún. Basic facilities available.

Can I see Lanín Volcano while fishing?

Yes, Lanín Volcano provides a dramatic backdrop from many fishing spots, especially Lago Huechulafquen and the upper Chimehuin. It is one of the most scenic fishing settings in the world.

Are there restrictions on the number of anglers?

Some waters, particularly the Río Malleo, have daily rod limits to protect the fishery. Book guides in advance during peak season.

Parque Nacional Lanín

|