Rio Capitán Lodge is nestled in the heart of Southern Patagonia. This family-run estancia offers an intimate and exclusive fly fishing experience. Located amidst the stunning Andes Mountains, Capitán Lodge sits on a private 42,000-acre property. The lodge itself is a beautifully remodelled ranch home that accommodates up to six anglers per week in three double-occupancy guestrooms with private baths. It boasts wind-powered generators for around-the-clock electricity and Wi-Fi. Traditional Argentine meals and an open bar enhance the lodge’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.

History

Luis Imaz bought Estancia Rio Capitan in 2001, with no intention of operating it as a fishing lodge. At that stage, there were no trout in any of the water systems inside the ranch. In 2003 he hired a biologist to assess the viability of introducing trout but was told .. “they will not survive”… He paid the biologist, drove straight to Comandante Luis Piedrabuena and bought a tank of Rainbow Trout that he stocked in Tavia Spring Creek!! A year after he stocked Toro Pond, and in 2006 he stocked Quiroga Lake. He was very optimistic about his waters, and in 2010, the fish on the pond averaged 10 lbs…

But it was not until 2012 when the lake exploded and they could see a black cloud from the Capitan River mouth all the way down to the Chico River…. thousands of fish running down from the lake. This was evidence enough to start a fishing operation.

The house is beautifully unique is an old-fashioned Estancia style, surrounded by the Tavia Spring Creek that runs right next to the lodge and very close to the lower beat of the Rio Capitan. It accommodates up to 6 fishermen, in 3 double rooms each with its own private bathroom.

Breakfast and dinner are served in the dining room, but lunches are mostly by the river/lake/pond or where you are fishing that day. All beverages and spirits are included.

Non-fishing partners have some extra activities on the ranch and other visits can be arranged that aren’t too far from the Estancia

The lodge is located in Santa Cruz Province, between Gobernador Gregores and Perito Moreno

Guests fly in from all over the world to Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires. From the domestic airport, take a flight down to Calafate (3 hours approx). Lodge staff will pick you up and drive you to Capitan. The journey takes approximately 6 hours drive. From the 2025 season onwards, an option to fly from Comodoro Rivadavia (2 hours from BA) which lands close to the Lodge, will be available. There are 2 planes that can take 4 guests plus luggage or 6 guests plus luggage.

Alternative routes include flying to Balmaceda Airport in Chile, followed by a lodge-arranged transfer and border crossing. The logistics team at Capitán Lodge can customize travel plans to suit the group’s specific needs, ensuring a smooth journey regardless of the starting point.

Capitán Lodge is a premier fly fishing destination, particularly for trophy rainbow trout. Fish up to 25 pounds are not uncommon!!

The fishing season at runs from November to April. November and April can be cold but feature massive runs of trophy rainbows from the lake system. Peak fishing months are November through January and late March, with January and February being the warmest and windiest. Anglers should be prepared for varying weather conditions, including strong winds.

You will fish the rugged Rio Capitán, Rio Chico, Lago Quiroga, and Lago Toro. The Rio Capitán, characterized by its steep and unique pocket water system, is known for producing monster trout. This river requires substantial hiking and physical effort but rewards anglers with incredible fishing opportunities. The Rio Capitán has three distinct walk-and-wade beats, with large fish hiding in small, swift pockets. Lago Quiroga, an open system lake, allows trophy rainbows to swim freely to interconnecting lakes and rivers, creating a dynamic and thriving ecosystem. Your guide will be on hand to recommend the streamer, nymph, or dry to target these massive fish.

NOTE: The Tavia Spring Creek and Rio Chico are only fished after a long hike to get to the waters

Physical fitness is important for those fishing the Rio Capitán due to the steep riverbanks and demanding terrain.

“There is no Prime Time at Capitan. We are pretty sure that you can catch the biggest fish of your life from November until April.”

Itinerary

A typical day at Capitán Lodge begins with breakfast at 8:00 a.m. Guests leave for the river around 9:00 a.m. and fish until approximately 1:00 p.m. A streamside lunch featuring local delicacies and wine is served, followed by an afternoon fishing session until about 6:00 p.m., after which guides drive guests back to the lodge. Evenings are spent relaxing, enjoying the open bar, and dining on traditional Argentine meals, with dinner typically served around 9:00 p.m. Fishing times are flexible to accommodate guests’ preferences and weather conditions.

Fishing gear should be a variation of rods from #4 or #5 to fish on the Tavia, a powerful #6 or #7 to fish on the pond and the main river, and #8 to fish on the lake. You will use floating lines, short leaders (7,1/2″) and a wide variety of trout patterns. Skating dries, swinging streamers and dry/dropper action all works very well.

Guests are advised to bring their own equipment as the lodge does not provide gear. Guides have flies available for purchase. A comprehensive tackle and gear list will be provided after booking.

It is recommended to bring extra clothing. Weather can change very quickly and if the wind blows (usually) it comes from the Andes, where you see snow most of the time.

Terms and Conditions

There is a minimum stay requirement of 4 nights at the lodge allowing 5 days of fishing. However, more than this would be advisable as there is so much water to cover!

$800 per angler per night sharing.

70% single supplement for anglers wanting their own room or travelling alone

Non-angling partner is 70% of the shared angler price

A 30% deposit secures your booking with the final payment due 60 days before arrival

No refunds of deposits or final payments under any circumstances

What’s included:

• Roundtrip ground transfers from El Calafate to the lodge
• All meals and drinks at the lodge
• Guided fishing and fishing license
• Wi-Fi

What’s not included:

• International or domestic airfares
• Ground transfers, hotels, and meals in Buenos Aires or El Calafate
• Domestic flights from Buenos Aires to El Calafate
• Fishing gear and tackle
• Gratuities for guides and house staff
• Travel Insurance