El Atravesado Lodge
World-class fly fishing on private waters, set against the dramatic
backdrop of the Patagonian Andes.
Where the River Meets the Mountains
El Atravesado Lodge is located on the banks of one of Patagonia’s rivers. With exclusive access to private waters and a philosophy rooted in conservation, every detail has been considered to deliver an unmatched angling experience. Surrounded by ancient forests, the lodge offers a rare combination of remoteness and refinement. We welcome a limited number of guests each week to ensure an intimate, personalized experience.
20+ km
Private River Access
Dic - Mar
Season Duration
8
Guests Per Week
Crafted for the
Discerning Angler
Every detail is curated to deliver an extraordinary experience, from the rivers you fish to the meals you enjoy at the end of each day.
Exceptional Waters
Access over 20 kilometers of private river, primarily wade fishing, alongside curated beats on nearby lakes and tributaries. Our guides know every pool, every run, and every seasonal pattern.
Truly Private
With only eight guests per week, you will never share a beat. The lodge, the rivers, and the surrounding wilderness are yours to explore at your own pace.
Wild Fish
In these remote Patagonian waters, trout grow strong and truly wild, living their entire lives without the pressure of anglers.
Comfort After the Cast
After a day on the water, return to a lodge designed for relaxation. Warm interiors, thoughtful amenities, and cuisine prepared with local ingredients create the perfect end to every day.
- King-size beds with premium linens
- River and mountain views
- En-suite bathrooms
- Chef-prepared regional cuisine
- Curated Argentine wine list
- Wood-fired living spaces
Fly Fishing at Its Finest
El Atravesado and its tributaries are home to wild brown and rainbow trout in a pristine, unpressured environment. Whether you prefer dry flies on spring creeks or streamer fishing on big water, our guides will put you in the right place at the right time.
The Waters
Over 30 kilometers of private river access, plus select lakes and spring creeks. Each offers a different character and challenge, ensuring variety throughout your stay.
The Guides
Our team of bilingual guides are some of the most experienced in Patagonia. They combine deep local knowledge with a genuine passion for fly fishing and conservation.
The Approach
We practice strict catch-and-release and limit our fishing pressure to protect the resource. This stewardship is reflected in the quality of fish our waters consistently produce.
Plan Around the Seasons
Patagonia offers distinct seasonal windows, each with its own character. Understanding the rhythm of the region helps us craft the perfect itinerary for you.
Early Season
December
Hatches begin as snowmelt feeds the rivers. Excellent dry fly fishing with lighter crowds. The landscape comes alive with wildflowers and lengthening days.
Peak Season
January - February
Prime conditions across all waters. Warm weather, prolific hatches, and consistently productive fishing make this the most popular window.
Late Season
March
The clearest waters and the selectivity of the fish offer a refined experience. Autumn colors enhance the consistently productive fishing at El Atravesado late in the season.
What to expect
Watercraft
Primarily wading and wet wading as the season progresses. Early season we may use rafts, plus NRS self-bailing rafts on the lake and lagoons to cast to cruising fish.
Rods & Reels
6 wt is the best all-round setup. A 4–5 wt is ideal for delicate presentations on the river. Smooth drag reels with plenty of backing.
Flies
Large attractor dries on the lake, Stimulators and Elk Hair Caddis on the river. Wooly buggers and articulated streamers for aggressive takes in deeper runs.
Leaders & Tippet
Leaders 7.5 to 9 ft, 3x–5x. Tippet from 0x to 5x. Fluorocarbon recommended for streamers and deeper nymphing.
Watercraft & Access
At El Atravesado Lodge, we primarily fish on foot — wading and wet wading, especially as the season progresses. Early in the season (November and December), the river is floatable and we may use rafts to access different beats, but most of your fishing will be done while wading.
We also have access to a lake and some lagoons, where we use our NRS self-bailing rafts, comfortably outfitted with frames and seats — perfect for exploring still waters and casting to cruising fish.
All fishing locations are just minutes from the lodge. Your guide will tailor each day's plan based on conditions and your preferences.
Tackle — Rods & Reels
We recommend 6-weight rods as the best all-around setup for both the lake and the river. For those targeting the river specifically, a 4–5 wt rod is ideal for delicate presentations and smaller trout.
Floating lines are standard on both waters. Bring a sinking line if you're planning to fish streamers on the river. Reels should have smooth drags and we suggest spooling up with plenty of backing.
Flies
On the lake, large attractor dry flies work well throughout the season. For the river, dry flies like Stimulators, Parachute Adams, and Elk Hair Caddis are productive.
Streamers such as wooly buggers and small articulated patterns can produce aggressive takes, especially in deeper runs. Olive, black, and brown are strong color choices.
Bring a box of mixed dries, nymphs, and streamers to match changing conditions throughout the day.
Leaders & Tippet
Leaders should be 7.5 to 9 feet, typically in 3x to 5x depending on fly size and conditions. Tippet from 0x to 5x will cover most situations.
For streamer fishing and deeper nymphing, fluorocarbon is recommended due to its abrasion resistance.
Always inspect your leader and tippet after each session. These fish are wild and powerful, and you'll want to be ready for them.
Combine our three
signature programs
In all of our operations you will be provided with exceptional Rio Manso service. Our commitment to human values and the high-quality experience ensures that every visit is memorable and fulfilling.
One Vision, Three Experiences
Each of our properties offers a distinct perspective on Patagonian wilderness, united by the same commitment to excellence and personal attention.