As the first to bring Alaskan-style pilot guiding to the Andes, lodge owner and head guide Mark Kniprath is unquestionably one of the deans of modern angling exploration. For the visiting angler the appeal is clear, as the depth and breadth of the waters Mark considers “home” vastly exceed that of other South American operations. With an almost limitless number of options a short flight away, guests at Heart of the Andes Lodge enjoy some of the best trophy brown and rainbow fishing, as well as the chance to chase pacific salmon, huge brookies, and occasional sea-run browns. And for those who want nothing more than to land in a remote setting where the local fish have never before seen a fly, this is the place. Mark and his wife, Margarita, have built a new facility that overlooks a lovely lake and is both remote and comfortable. Each of the main guest cabins has two bedrooms with queen beds, one bathroom, and a living room with fireplace, not to mention stunning views of the region. The lodge also features a full bar and delicious meals prepared by Margarita. Anglers fish two per guide and fish a combination of local waters and fly-out waters during the week. For those who want the ultimate in Chilean scenery, adventure, and remote and rewarding angling, this unique fly-out operation receives our highest marks.
The Heart of the Andes Travel:
To get to The Heart of the Andes, anglers must arrive into Balmaceda, Chile via Santiago. Most anglers choose to spend the day in historical Santiago enjoying the culture, restaurants, shopping options, and wine touring. The following morning anglers take a flight from Santiago to Balmaceda to meet the lodge. This Lan Chile flight is approximately three hours including a 20 minute stop over in Puerto Montt. Lan Chile and Sky Airlines both serve all domestic flights in Chile including your Santiago/Balmaceda/Santiago leg. Once anglers arrive to Balmaceda, your lodge pilot will meet you for a 35 minute flight in their Aztec plane to the Heart of the Andes private runway.
The Heart of the Andes Documentation:
You will need a valid passport to enter Chile! Please make sure your passport is valid for six months after the last day of your trip. Please note that Chile charges a one-time entrance fee of $100 US good for the life of your passport before you clear customs. Please be prepared to pay this in cash, however they have started taking Mastercard and Visa.
The Heart of the Andes Fishing Program and Fly Outs:
As the first to bring Alaskan-style pilot guiding to the Andes, lodge owner and head guide Mark Kniprath is unquestionably one of the deans of modern angling exploration. For the visiting angler the appeal is clear, as the depth and breadth of the waters Mark considers “home” vastly exceed that of other South American operations. With an almost limitless number of options, guests at Heart of the Andes Lodge enjoy some of the best trophy brown and rainbow fishing, as well as the chance to chase pacific salmon, huge brookies, and occasional sea-run browns. Anglers fish two per guide and fish the local waters during the week. For those who want the ultimate in Chilean scenery, adventure, and remote and rewarding angling, you may also want to opt for a fly out for an additional fee. The fly outs run from $100-200 per person per flight depending upon the number of anglers. Fishing techniques are diverse including casting big dry fly patterns, to nymphing, to stripping streamers for big trout!
The Heart of the Andes Accommodations and Meals:
Mark and his wife, Margarita, have built a new facility that overlooks Lago General Carrera and is both remote and comfortable. Each of the main guest cabins has two bedrooms with queen beds, one bathroom, and a living room with fireplace, and refrigerator with cold beers. The lodge also features a full bar, pool table, fly tying bench, and delicious meals prepared by Margarita. Daily laundry service is available for a small charge.
The Heart of the Andes Climate:
Temperatures range from the 40’s in the morning to over 80 in the afternoon. Bring warm clothing that can be layered and maybe a pair of shorts if you want to work on your tan.
The Heart of the Andes Season:
December – April
The Heart of the Andes Fish Species:
Brown, rainbow, and brook trout; silver and chinook salmon
The Heart of the Andes Lodge Capacity:
8 anglers
The Heart of the Andes 2008 Rates:
$4,500 per week / per person
Included:
Six days of guided fishing, all meals, guides, boats, equipment, kayaking, fishing tackle, flies, use of the lodge’s extensive fly tying table, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage service is provided compliments of your host.
Not Included:
Flights to/from US to Balmaceda, transportation between Balmaceda and the lodge, daily fly outs with the Lodge aircrafts (approx.$100-$200 per person per day), fishing licenses, staff and guide gratuities, phone calls, terminal tackle.
Note: Chile charges a one-time entrance fee of $100 US before you clear customs. Please be prepared to pay this in cash, however they have started taking Mastercard and Visa.
Chile