All Fishing Spots

Fishing Spots: Villa La Angostura

Villa La Angostura is a serene mountain village on the northern shore of Lago Nahuel Huapi, offering refined fly fishing on the Río Correntoso, Lago Correntoso, and surrounding streams. Known as the Garden of Patagonia, it provides an exclusive, uncrowded fishing experience.

4 fishing spotsBest Season: Season runs November through April. The Río Correntoso fishes best in November-December when large fish move between lakes. January-February provides consistent fishing across all waters. March-April offers spectacular fall colors and larger fish becoming aggressive.

Overview

Villa La Angostura sits in a privileged position on the northern shore of Lago Nahuel Huapi in Neuquén Province. This small, elegant town is known for its arrayán forests, chocolate shops, and increasingly for its superb fly fishing. The Río Correntoso, one of the world's shortest rivers connecting Lago Correntoso to Lago Nahuel Huapi, is a legendary spot for trophy brown trout. The surrounding lakes and streams within Nahuel Huapi and Los Arrayanes National Parks provide diverse fishing in pristine settings. Villa La Angostura's intimate size and upscale character make it ideal for anglers seeking quality over quantity.

Fishing Spots

Río Correntoso

river

Species

brown trout, rainbow trout, landlocked salmon

Technique

Streamer, nymph, dry fly

Season

November to April

Permit

Neuquén + national park permits

One of the world's shortest rivers at just 300 meters. Despite its tiny length, it produces trophy brown trout exceeding 10 lbs that feed on baitfish moving between the lakes. Strictly regulated with limited daily rods. A must-fish spot for serious anglers.

Access: In town, connects Lago Correntoso to Nahuel Huapi

Lago Correntoso

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, landlocked salmon

Technique

Trolling, streamer, shore casting

Season

November to April

Permit

Neuquén provincial license

A clear, deep lake connected to Nahuel Huapi. Excellent trolling for large trout and salmon. Shore fishing productive at the outlet (Río Correntoso) and inlet areas.

Access: Just north of town

Río Bonito

stream

Species

rainbow trout, brook trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, small stream fishing

Season

December to March

Permit

Neuquén provincial license

A charming small stream winding through dense native forest. Light tackle fishing for willing rainbow and brook trout. The perfect half-day option for intimate fishing.

Access: West of town via forest trails

Lago Espejo

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Shore fly fishing, trolling

Season

November to April

Permit

Neuquén provincial license

A mirror-calm lake on the famous Ruta de los 7 Lagos. Good fishing from shore with streamers and from boats. Scenic setting surrounded by mountains and forest.

Access: North via Ruta de los 7 Lagos

Regulations

Season

November 1 to April 30

Permits

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

Catch Limits

2-3 trout/day, min 25 cm. Many sections C&R.

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

  • 1Angostura Fly Fishing — premier local guides
  • 2Correntoso Lodge — luxury lodge with expert fishing guides
  • 3Bahía Manzano Outfitters — lake and river guided trips
  • 4Siete Lagos Fishing — guides covering the 7 Lakes route

Best Season to Fish

Season runs November through April. The Río Correntoso fishes best in November-December when large fish move between lakes. January-February provides consistent fishing across all waters. March-April offers spectacular fall colors and larger fish becoming aggressive.

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

Why is the Río Correntoso so famous?

At 300 meters, it is one of the world's shortest rivers but produces enormous brown trout. Fish concentrate here when moving between Lago Correntoso and Lago Nahuel Huapi. Access is limited to preserve the fishery.

How far is Villa La Angostura from Bariloche?

Approximately 80 km north, about 1.5 hours by the scenic Ruta de los 7 Lagos. Bariloche airport (BRC) is the closest.

Is Villa La Angostura expensive?

It is more upscale than some Patagonian towns, with boutique lodges and fine dining. However, fishing licenses are standard provincial prices and budget options exist.

Can I drive the Ruta de los 7 Lagos and fish?

Yes! The famous scenic route between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes passes several fishable lakes. A multi-day driving/fishing trip is highly recommended.

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