Who is best suited to this destination? Anglers who want to experience a remote section of the upper Rio Gallegos and its tributaries while taking in the dramatic landscape of southern Patagonia. This is also a great add-on for guests staying at Las Buitreras and other destinations in southern Patagonia.
Where is the lodge? The lodge is located in southern Patagonia three hours west of the city of Rio Gallegos.
How do I get there? Guests fly from Buenos Aires into the city of Rio Gallegos in the morning and transfer by vehicle approximately three hours to the lodge.
When should I go? February to the end of March.
How will I fish? Anglers will fish the tributaries of the Gallegos with single-hand rods and light spey rods utilizing a variety of tactics including swinging flies, casting dry flies into pockets, and stripping streamers. For the Gallegos sections, a lighter spey rod is preferred to handle the wind and encounters with sea-run brown trout.
Is there wade fishing? Guests wade fish 100% of the time.
Where will I fish? Anglers fish three different rivers, including the uppermost section of the Rio Gallegos and its tributaries the Rubens and Penitente rivers.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? Travel times to fishing areas are short and range from 10 - 20 minutes.
What type(s) of fish will I catch? Resident brown trout in the 17- to 23- inch class are the target species, and anglers may encounter sea-run brown trout in the beats on the Gallegos.
How many fish will I catch? Catch rates will vary depending on the conditions, angler skills, and the focus of the day. In general, anglers can expect to encounter anywhere between five and ten quality trout per day.
Will I see other anglers? It is highly unlikely to see other anglers outside of Glencross guests.
What are the guides like? The guides are friendly, professional, and work hard to deliver the best experience possible. They all speak good fishing English, although some of the newer guides may have a more limited English vocabulary.
What are the physical demands? None. There is not much walking required, and the wading is easy.
Are there any special skills required? Guests should be prepared to cast in the wind and a stealthy approach will improve catch rates.
Does the lodge provide equipment? The lodge has a selection of rod and reel outfits that are available to rent, and it is recommended to book any needed equipment in advance. They also have a small assortment of flies, leaders, and tippet available for purchase at the lodge.
What is your favorite setup for the trip? On the Rubens and Penitente rivers a 9- to 10-foot single hand 6-weight with a floating line. It is also a good idea to have a 11- to 13- foot 7- or 8-weight spey rod for the days on the Gallegos.
What are the top flies? Small streamers or leeches do well with the resident browns, and any rubber leg nymphs for the sea-run browns. On calm days, foam attractors that are drifted or skated can be very effective.
What are the options if water conditions become challenging? The guides will put you on promising pools that fish well under a range of conditions.
What is a typical day like? Guests will have split session fishing days. After a hearty breakfast guests will depart for a morning fishing session, and return to the lodge to eat lunch, the biggest meal of the day. After a siesta, guests will depart for an early evening fishing session on a different piece of water and return to the lodge for dinner.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge? The lodge is a relaxed atmosphere on a working cattle and sheep ranch in a remote setting. At times it will feel more like a homestay than a fancy lodge.
Is there an on-site owner, manager or other point-person at the lodge? Yes. The head guide also serves as the lodge manager during your stay.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Meals are hearty, freshly prepared traditional Argentine cuisine and are served in a central dining area in the main estancia. Lunches are the biggest meal of the day and are served outside by the lodge if the weather allows for it, followed by a siesta before the afternoon fishing session. They can accommodate vegetarian and special dietary needs with advanced notice.
What is the alcohol policy? Wine and beer are included, and guests can bring any alcohol of their choice.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? Guests stay at the main estancia on an 85,000 hectare working cattle and sheep ranch. The estancia features traditional southern Patagonia architecture and four single occupancy bedrooms with two shared bathrooms, a main dining area, separate lounge, and a spacious outdoor patio.
Is there internet and/or cell service? There is wireless internet at the lodge, but cell connection is very limited. It is recommended that you plan on all communication through the internet.
Are there other activities? Horseback riding and hiking can be scheduled ahead of the trip, and the specific date can be finalized on-site.
Are there any other expenses? Any other guided activities, gear rentals, and gratuities.
Do I need a visa? No. Argentina no longer requires a reciprocity fee or visa. Guests must have a valid passport that expires no less than six months prior to the trip date.
Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances? We recommend that guests always consult with the US Department of State and the Center for Disease Control websites for general travel information and guidelines.
