2023-2024 Proving to Be Epic Patagonia Season

Hola Amigos!

Here’s the mid-season report from Rio Manso Lodge:

I’ve been traveling and fishing in Patagonia for over 20 years, and this could very well be the best season yet in our part of the world. Early cool weather and abundant snow in the mountains turned into an extended version of peak fishing. Although the dry fly fishing was slow to start, streamer fishing was truly outstanding. When the weather warmed, the dry fly fishing took off in earnest. Dragon flies always lead the way and they have continued to keep the fish looking up for a big meal. Mayflies and caddis in the channels are providing more afternoon and evening fishing as well. Check out the photos below and you will see what I mean.

Hard to believe this season is just half over. There is plenty of fishing left in February, March, and especially April. If the early season results are any indication, we should be seeing some very large browns, rainbows, and brook trout this fall.

Our inaugural float trip on the Collon Cora was a complete success. We fully expect our continuing float trips during February and March will prove to be a hit with our guests as well. The Collon Cura watershed and surrounding landscape stand in stark contrast to the thick forest of the Manso region. Both will give you a glimpse of what Patagonia has to offer from drift boat fishing to wading to sight casting the crystal clear waters surrounding Rio Manso Lodge.

Our season runs through April 30, so you haven’t missed out yet! Still plenty of time to plan a trip. We have lots of good dates available throughout most of the season.

Contact me for details including rates and more information. Email: John Bleh
U.S. Office: Waitsfield, Vermont Phone: 802-362-5340 or Cell: 802-236-1036

Each trip is custom-designed for up to six guests, and includes several days at Rio Manso Lodge with a 2-3 night float on the Collon Cura, one of northern Patagonia’s best rivers. Available for February and March 2024. These trips will offer a tremendous variety of fishing from small streams to big rivers, spring creeks to old-growth forest lined lakes.

Contact me for details including rates and more information. Email: John Bleh
U.S. Office: Waitsfield, Vermont Phone: 802-362-5340 or Cell: 802-236-1036

This trip is suitable for all skill levels and can be easily adjusted to provide the best possible experience. Rest and relax at the lodge before setting off on your float adventure. You’ll float the Collon Cora in drift boats or specialized NRS rafts, stopping to wade and fish prime water if you wish. Each evening, you’ll end the day at a river bank campsite. Step out of your raft to a cocktail and enjoy your private individual accommodations. Relax by the fire while enjoying the best of Patagonia’s outdoors. At the end of your 2 or 3 day float trip, return to Rio Manso Lodge’s comfort and fish the rivers, streams and lakes of the surrounding area. At the end of your stay it’s an easy transfer to the airport in Bariloche.

Contact me for details including rates and more information. Email: John Bleh
U.S. Office: Waitsfield, Vermont Phone: 802-362-5340 or Cell: 802-236-1036


Wait – Can’t Go in February or March?
April in Patagonia

April offers excellent fall fishing in the rivers and lakes surrounding Rio Manso Lodge. Perhaps one of the best times of year to catch a trophy-sized brown, many guests prefer this time of year for its crisp temperatures, spectacular mountain colors, and of course, hungry browns and rainbows, and beautifully colored brook trout. Surprising to many, there can be very good dry fly fishing as fall caddis and mayfly hatches bring trout to the surface. Big trout are also chasing baitfish in the shallows creating outstanding streamer fishing. One of our favorite times fish.

Fall fishing always means a chase for a truly large trout, maybe even the trout of a lifetime. But you’ll never know if you don’t go! Available dates:

Contact me for details including rates and more information. Email: John Bleh
U.S. Office: Waitsfield, Vermont Phone: 802-362-5340 or Cell: 802-236-1036


Hosted trips are a great way to explore new places, introduce your family to new cultures and countries, and maybe make some friends along the way! Through it all you’ll have an experienced leader to help take care of you. Me. I’ve been visiting Patagonia for the last 20 years and am eager to share my knowledge with you, your family, and friends.

Come join me in April 2024 for a fall trip to Patagonia. Or start planning for the 2024-2025 season so another one doesn’t get away.


I Want To Know About Hosted Trips and Rio Manso’s Fabulous Fall Fishing

Call 802-362-5340 or 802-236-1036 or email john@riomansolodge.com
(Ask about our 2024 – 2025 hosted trips)