Karku, nestled in the heart of Patagonia, offers an exceptional fly fishing experience on the renowned Rio Gallegos. This lodge is the perfect destination for anglers seeking trophy-sized sea-run brown trout amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Karku is part of a historic Patagonian estancia, a traditional ranch with roots tracing back to the region’s early settlers. The estancia has a rich heritage, originally established for sheep farming in the late 19th century. Over the years, it has evolved, preserving its cultural legacy while embracing eco-tourism and fly fishing as key aspects of its identity.

The lodge is surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, characterized by vast open spaces, rugged terrain, and pristine rivers. The area is home to diverse wildlife, including guanacos, condors, and a variety of bird species, offering guests an immersive experience in one of the world’s most unspoiled environments. The dramatic scenery, with its big skies and sweeping vistas, is the perfect location for your fishing adventure.

Karku Lodge provides comfortable and rustic accommodations, blending traditional Patagonian charm with modern conveniences. Guests can relax in cosy rooms after a day of fishing and enjoy delicious, locally sourced meals prepared by the lodge’s chef. The communal areas offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for sharing stories and experiences with fellow anglers.

There are 2 single bedrooms with a shared bathroom and 1 double bedroom with a private bathroom

Groups are preferred but individual anglers are welcome

Anglers must arrive at Rio Gallegos airport where a Karku representative will be waiting to meet you. The transfer to Karku takes approximately 50 minutes. The arrival and departure days are on Saturdays. We recommend arrivals in Rio Gallegos mid-afternoon and departures before noon

Travelling to Rio Gallegos Airport (RGL) in Argentina from the USA and Europe involves a combination of international and domestic flights, as there are no direct flights from these regions to Rio Gallegos.

Here’s a general outline of the easiest flight paths:

From the USA:
To Buenos Aires (Ezeiza International Airport – EZE):

Major Airlines: American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, LATAM Airlines.
Cities with Direct Flights: Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Dallas (DFW), Houston (IAH).

From Buenos Aires (EZE) to Rio Gallegos (RGL):

Domestic Airlines: Aerolineas Argentinas.
Flight Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

From Europe:

To Buenos Aires (Ezeiza International Airport – EZE):

Major Airlines: British Airways, Iberia, Air France, Lufthansa, KLM, Alitalia.
Cities with Direct Flights: London (LHR), Madrid (MAD), Paris (CDG), Frankfurt (FRA), Amsterdam (AMS), Rome (FCO).

From Buenos Aires (EZE) to Rio Gallegos (RGL):

Domestic Airlines: Aerolineas Argentinas.
Flight Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

The Fishing at Karku

Season Overview

The season runs from late December through April. Early in the season, anglers get the first shot at fish that have just entered the system, often between 20-30 pounds.

While January and February are traditionally seen as the peak months for catching trophy-sized sea-run brown trout during Patagonia’s summer, it’s important to note that fishing in March and April can be more consistently productive in terms of numbers. Although the fish may not be as massive as those in the early season, late March still brings a significant run of sizeable fish.

As the season advances, some of the larger sea trout begin to exhibit more vibrant colours. These coloured fish still share the river with newly arrived sea trout. In the later part of the season, these brightly coloured holding fish mix with an influx of medium-sized sea trout, typically weighing between 6 to 12 pounds.

The Fishing

The shallow runs of the Rio Gallegos require precision and finesse when casting your double-hander. When the river is calm and the water is clear, success hinges on delicate presentation, employing smaller flies and nymphs on lengthy, lightweight leaders. However, when the water turns murky, the wind kicks up, or the light fades, your flies must grow in size, and your leaders in strength. Wading is comfortable but stealth is important.

The daily programme involves heading down to the river after a hearty breakfast. You will fish a morning session and then take a break during the middle of the day. Lunch is the main meal of the day followed by time to relax or have a siesta. Anglers head back out onto the river for a lengthy evening season with the hope of a trophy fish.

What To Bring

RODS:

• Single hand 9′ – 10′ 7W
• Two-handed 12′ – 12′ 6” 7W​

LINES:

• Floating
• Intermediate Scandi
• Skagit​

Good quality reels with backing of at least 150 yards.

Leaders and Forceps

FLIES to bring:

1. Salmon Tube (L & S sizes)

2. Yug Bug (Rubber Legs)

3. Bead Head Nymph

4. Woolly Bugger

5. Zonker

6. Bitch Creek

DON’T FORGET:

• Wading boots
• Waders
• Gloves
• Wading jacket
• Buff (Neckwear)
• Thermal Underwear
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm (SPF)
• Sunglasses  (polarized)

PERSONAL ITEMS:

• Passport/ID​
• Travel itinerary and tickets
• ​Health insurance card/Travel Insurance
• Credit/debit cards and cash
• Emergency contact info
• Adapter/plug converter
• Personal medication

Season 26 December 2024 – April 2025

•  $4250 per person

INCLUDED:

• Transfer from the Rio Gallegos airport RGL (round trip).
• 7 Nights accommodation
• Expert Guiding on 40km of river
• Continental breakfast, and home-cooked lunch and dinner
• Wifi internet access (Limited speed)

NOT INCLUDED:

• Laundry service
• Fishing gear
• Flies
• Alcoholic beverages
• Staff and guide tips.
• International and domestic flights

Deposit and Cancellation Policy

* A deposit of fifty percent (50%) of the total price is required to confirm a booking. The balance due shall be paid at least 120 days before the proposed arrival date.

Cancellation/Refund
* The deposit required to confirm fishing reservations is NON-REFUNDABLE unless the client is replaced. In the event of a cancellation, KARKU will try to fill the cancelled booking space with other guests. However, this is not guaranteed.

* The lodge is not responsible for cancellations due to weather conditions or an event of major force.

* Once you have made a reservation, it will be deemed that you have consented to the terms and conditions and the cancellation policy.