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Fishing Spots: Puyuhuapi

Puyuhuapi is a quaint fjord village on the Carretera Austral offering unique fishing where rivers meet the sea. The Río Cisnes, coastal fjords, and nearby mountain streams provide diverse fishing for trout and salmon in a misty, dramatic landscape.

4 fishing spotsBest Season: Season November to April. December-February is prime with warmest weather, though rain is always possible. Salmon runs peak January-February. The area receives heavy rainfall year-round, so quality rain gear is essential.

Overview

Puyuhuapi sits on the Ventisquero Sound along the Carretera Austral in Chile's Aysén region. This small village, founded by German settlers in the 1930s, offers a unique fishing environment where freshwater rivers flow into Pacific fjords. The Río Cisnes is the region's premier trout river, while coastal areas provide opportunities for sea-run fish. The nearby Termas de Puyuhuapi hot springs add a luxurious element. The area's heavy rainfall creates lush temperate rainforest and cold, productive waters.

Fishing Spots

Río Cisnes

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, chinook salmon

Technique

Streamer, nymph, dry fly

Season

November to April

Permit

SERNAPESCA license

The major fishing river in the area flowing through temperate rainforest. Good populations of rainbow and brown trout with seasonal salmon runs. Wade fishing in lower sections, drift boat for upper reaches.

Access: North of Puyuhuapi via Carretera Austral

Ventisquero Sound

fjord

Species

sea-run brown trout, chinook salmon

Technique

Streamer, trolling from boat

Season

December to March

Permit

SERNAPESCA license

The fjord where rivers meet the sea. Sea-run brown trout enter rivers from here. Boat fishing for salmon in the sound. A unique saltwater-freshwater transition zone.

Access: By boat from Puyuhuapi

Río Queulat

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, small stream

Season

November to April

Permit

SERNAPESCA license

A smaller river near the spectacular Queulat Hanging Glacier. Clear water with willing trout in a stunning rainforest setting. Light tackle and small flies recommended.

Access: Near Parque Nacional Queulat

Lago Risopatrón

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Trolling, shore casting

Season

November to April

Permit

SERNAPESCA license

A scenic lake offering good fishing in a quiet setting. Shore fishing at river inlets and trolling in deeper water.

Access: Near Puyuhuapi via side 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.

Gear Recommendations

5-weight fly rod (9 ft) for rivers
6-weight for lakes and wind
Floating line with sink-tip
Leaders 9-12 ft, tippet 3X-6X
Breathable waders and 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

  • 1Puyuhuapi Fishing Lodge — riverside lodge with guides
  • 2Termas de Puyuhuapi — hot springs lodge offering fishing excursions
  • 3Cisnes River Outfitters — specialized river guides

Best Season to Fish

Season November to April. December-February is prime with warmest weather, though rain is always possible. Salmon runs peak January-February. The area receives heavy rainfall year-round, so quality rain gear is essential.

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

What makes Puyuhuapi unique for fishing?

The junction of rivers and fjords creates a unique ecosystem with both freshwater trout and sea-run fish. The combination of hot springs, hanging glaciers, and fishing is unmatched.

Is it very rainy?

Yes, Puyuhuapi receives substantial rainfall. Good rain gear is essential. The rain keeps the rivers full and fish active, so it can actually improve fishing.

Can I visit the Queulat Hanging Glacier?

Yes! The Ventisquero Colgante (Hanging Glacier) in Parque Nacional Queulat is a stunning day trip that combines well with fishing the Río Queulat.

How do I get there?

Puyuhuapi is on the Carretera Austral, about 3 hours south of Chaitén or 3 hours north of Coyhaique. No local airport.

Puyuhuapi

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