All Fishing Spots

Fishing Spots: San Martín de los Andes

San Martín de los Andes offers exceptional fly fishing amid the stunning scenery of Argentina's Lake District. Set on the shores of Lago Lácar within Lanín National Park, this charming mountain town provides access to world-class rivers and lakes teeming with rainbow and brown trout.

6 fishing spotsBest Season: Season runs November through April. December-January offers warm weather and consistent hatches on rivers. February is peak tourist season but fishing remains excellent. March-April provide cooler temperatures, fall colors, and aggressive pre-spawn fish with notably fewer visitors.

Overview

San Martín de los Andes is a premier fishing destination in the heart of Patagonia's Lake District. The town sits beautifully on the eastern shore of Lago Lácar, surrounded by ancient Araucaria forests and snow-capped Andean peaks. Anglers here enjoy access to an extraordinary network of rivers and lakes within Lanín National Park. The Río Quilquihue, Río Meliquina, and Río Hermoso offer diverse fly fishing experiences from intimate stream fishing to wide-river drift boat excursions. Lago Lácar itself provides excellent shore and boat fishing for large trout and landlocked salmon. The region's combination of stunning natural beauty, well-maintained infrastructure, and abundant fish populations makes it one of the most complete fishing destinations in South America.

Fishing Spots

Lago Lácar

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, landlocked salmon

Technique

Trolling, shore casting, streamer fishing

Season

November to April

Permit

Included in provincial license

A deep glacial lake surrounded by mountains and native forest. Excellent trolling for landlocked salmon and large trout. Shore fishing productive at river mouths and drop-offs, especially early and late in the day.

Access: Town sits on the lake shore; boat launches available

Río Quilquihue

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph fishing

Season

November to April

Permit

Included in provincial license

A beautiful medium-sized river flowing between Lagos Lolog and Lácar. Crystal-clear wadeable water with excellent populations of rainbow and brown trout. Ideal for sight fishing with dry flies during summer hatches.

Access: South of town via RP 62, connects Lolog and Lácar

Río Meliquina

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, streamer

Season

November to April

Permit

Included in provincial license

A productive freestone river flowing from Lago Meliquina. Varied water with deep pools, fast riffles, and gentle runs. Known for consistent fishing and good-sized rainbows throughout the season.

Access: East of town via RN 40 and RP 63

Lago Lolog

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

Technique

Trolling, fly fishing from shore

Season

November to April

Permit

Included in provincial license

A quieter, scenic lake north of San Martín offering good fishing with less pressure than Lácar. Surrounded by pristine forest with several stream inlets that attract feeding trout.

Access: North of town via RP 62, approximately 15 km

Río Hermoso

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Small stream dry fly fishing

Season

December to March

Permit

Included in provincial license

A beautiful small river living up to its name ("Beautiful River"). Intimate fishing through lush forest with wild trout that eagerly take well-presented dry flies. A hidden gem for those seeking solitude.

Access: North via RN 40 toward Lago Meliquina

Lago Meliquina

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, perch

Technique

Trolling, shore fly fishing, spinning

Season

November to April

Permit

Included in provincial license

A scenic lake surrounded by mountains, known for consistent fishing year-round. Good-sized trout near the river inlet and outlet. Also holds populations of introduced perch.

Access: East via RN 40 and RP 63, approximately 30 km

Regulations

Season

November 1 to April 30

Permits

Neuquén provincial fishing license required. Available at local shops and online. ~$25-40 USD/day.

Catch Limits

2-3 trout per day, minimum size 25 cm. Many sections catch-and-release only.

Catch & Release

Mandatory on premium waters. Single barbless hooks required in C&R zones.

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 with felt soles
Dry flies: Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Royal Wulff, Parachute Adams
Nymphs: Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Prince Nymph, Copper John
Streamers: Woolly Bugger, Zonker, Muddler Minnow
Polarized sunglasses for sight fishing
Landing net with rubber mesh bag

Guides & Outfitters

  • 1Patagonia Fly Fishing San Martín — experienced local guides
  • 2Río Dorado Lodge — luxury fishing lodge with expert staff
  • 3San Martín Outfitters — full-service guided fishing trips
  • 4Fly Dreams Patagonia — specialized fly fishing operations
  • 5Lago Lolog Fishing Lodge — lakeside lodge with guided excursions

Best Season to Fish

Season runs November through April. December-January offers warm weather and consistent hatches on rivers. February is peak tourist season but fishing remains excellent. March-April provide cooler temperatures, fall colors, and aggressive pre-spawn fish with notably fewer visitors.

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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Discover more guides and resources for this destination

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of fish can I catch in San Martín de los Andes?

Primarily rainbow trout, brown trout, and landlocked salmon. Brook trout are found in smaller streams. Perch are also present in some lakes.

Do I need a guide?

Not required, but highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors. Guides know the best spots, current conditions, and can provide all equipment. Many waters are on private land requiring guide access.

Can I fish from shore on Lago Lácar?

Yes, shore fishing is productive at several spots around the lake, especially near river inlets and rocky points. Early morning and late evening are best for shore fishing.

What is the closest airport?

Chapelco Airport (CPC) is about 25 km from town with daily flights from Buenos Aires. Transfer services and car rentals are available at the airport.

Is it possible to combine fishing with other activities?

Absolutely. San Martín offers hiking, mountain biking, skiing (winter), kayaking, and excellent restaurants. It's a perfect destination for families where some members fish while others enjoy other activities.

San Martín de los Andes

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