Villa María, Río Grande​

Since 1994, Villa María has been the go-to destination for small, private groups seeking world-class fishing on the lower Río Grande. With attentive guides and welcoming staff, Villa María offers the perfect setting for unforgettable fishing experiences with friends and family.

Introduction

Overview of the Villa María, Río Grande, Argentina.

In 1935, English angler John Goodall introduced the first Brown Trout to Tierra del Fuego. Of the 60,000 eggs shipped from Puerto Montt, Chile, those that survived thrived in the Candelaria and McLennan rivers, eventually migrating to the nutrient-rich estuaries. Today, sea-run brown trout follow an annual migration cycle similar to salmon, returning to freshwater to spawn after growing in the ocean. Some have been known to return more than six times, with seasoned trout weighing over 20 pounds. Their thriving populations are a testament to the success of catch and release practices, ensuring a sustainable fishery.

Fishing

Fishing on the Río Grande, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

The primary target is the elusive Sea-Run Brown Trout, averaging 8lbs and reaching up to 30lbs. These moody fish require precise presentations, as they can be unpredictable. The Río Grande, a manageable river, allows for a variety of techniques. One moment, trout may take a fly deep, and the next, they’ll rise to a skating fly. With easy wading and changing water levels, adaptability is key. Adjust your presentation, and trust your expert guide to help you land more fish. Sea-run browns often lie near cut banks during the day, moving into faster waters during early morning and evening hours.

Fish Species:

  • Sea-Run Brown Trout (Seatrout): The star attraction of the Río Grande, these powerful and aggressive fish can grow to impressive sizes, ranging up to 10+ kg, providing an exhilarating challenge for anglers.
  • Resident Brown Trout: While the sea-run variety is the main draw, resident brown trout also populate these waters, adding to the diversity and excitement of the fishing experience.


Best Seasons:

  • January to April: This period marks the prime season for fly fishing on the Río Grande. During these months, sea-run brown trout return from the ocean to the river to spawn, making them highly active and aggressive. Anglers can expect thrilling catches and remarkable fights with these formidable fish.
  • Late Season (March to April): The late season is particularly noted for the presence of larger, more challenging sea-run brown trout, providing an opportunity for anglers to land trophy-sized fish.

A great rule of thumb is “tails in the morning and heads at night.” On calm, overcast days, fish can be found throughout the pools, while sunny days may require adjusting your approach to avoid the trout’s direct line of sight to the sun. However, success often depends on the number of fish in a pool and their willingness to bite.

Available rods selling hot right now!

The Accommodation

Cozy Accommodations at Villa Maria Lodge

Exclusive Fly Fishing Haven: Accommodates only 6 anglers with private access to 20km of prime water on the lower Río Grande—perfect for small, discerning groups.
Spey Angler’s Dream: Long, low-gradient pools mean less casting, more fishing.
Sea-Run Trout Paradise: Fish the longest pools with trout fresh from the sea.
Varied Fishing Experience: New beats each morning and evening for diverse, exciting fishing opportunities.
Wind Advantage: Extensive beat options allow anglers to fish with the wind at their back for easier casting.
Evening Warm-Up: Start your arrival day with an evening session to get into the rhythm.
Maximized River Time: Enjoy lunch and siestas at a riverside house—fish more, drive less, and take in the stunning Tierra del Fuego setting.
Five-Star Lodge Experience: Exquisite à la carte menu, premium accommodations, and world-class hospitality, bringing back 80% of our anglers year after year.
Top Guides: A mix of expert local and international sea-run brown trout guides, rotating daily for a diverse fishing experience.
Premium Gear: Access to superb fishing gear and equipment at no extra cost.

The Guides

Expert Guides at Villa María, Río Grande

The fly fishing guides at Villa María, Río Grande are a team of seasoned professionals, combining local expertise with world-class technique. With years of experience on the Río Grande, they possess an intimate knowledge of the river’s currents, pools, and the elusive sea-run brown trout. Skilled in both single and two-handed (Spey) casting, they provide personalized instruction to anglers of all levels. Dedicated and passionate, these guides ensure you maximize your fishing experience by adapting strategies to changing river conditions, offering invaluable advice on fly selection, presentation, and timing. Their commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment aligns with Villa María’s catch and release policy, ensuring every trip is not only successful but also responsible.

Villa María offers anglers first crack at newly arrived Sea Trout on the lower Río Grande.

Villa María is very well suited to caring for small groups of friends and family.

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We are looking forward to organising your fly fishing adventure. 

Phone: +41 79 260 99 99