By Kathleen Shepard
Explore all that Chile’s waterways have to offer on your next fishing expedition.
Trout in Chile, 2007. Simon Hallett. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
From Chile’s mountain streams to the southern waters of Patagonia, thousands of anglers, fly-fishers and seafaring fishermen venture there each year.
However, with so many options, it can be difficult to decide where to set sail. So let’s dive into the different fly-fishing, cast netting and line-and-hook fishing opportunities both on and off the beaten path.
Chile, 2012. Simon Hallett. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
In northern Chile lies the mouth of the Loa River. Nestled between Tarapaca and Antofagasta, it provides a tremendous opportunity for fly-fishing amid spectacular views.
If sea fishing is more your speed, the middle of the country is also an excellent choice. In the Valparaiso Region, popular sites include Papudo, Quintero, Algarrobo and El Tabo.
El Tabo, Chile. Mauro Aravena. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
Angling is also increasingly popular amongst Chilean fishermen. The Coyhaique area in Chile offers outstanding lake fishing. Situated within Patagonia, plenty of wild brown and rainbow trout also live in these waterways, providing sizable catches for both locals and visiting anglers.
Coyhaique. Steffen Sauder. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.
Speaking of trout, the Rio Baker area also hosts a large population of migratory rainbow trout and trophy browns. One of the largest rivers in Chilean Patagonia, the Rio Baker houses trout averaging 16 to 20 inches. Exploring the streams, spring creeks and eddies provides the perfect chance to catch them.
Rainbow Trout, Chile, 2005. Simon Hallett. CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.
However, the greatest spot for fishing, especially fly-fishing, is undoubtedly the Carretera Austral, or Southern Highway, in the south of Chilean Patagonia. Stretching over 745 miles and starting in the city of Puerto Montt, it passes through numerous national parks and, according to Chile Travel, is “the best destination if you’re looking for fish-filled rivers and lakes.”
Puerto Montt. Balou46. CC BY-SA 4.0.
It’s particularly popular because of the abundance of rivers. The Carretera Austral area includes the Puelo River, located along the Tagua Tagua Lake, and houses Chinook, Coho and Atlantic salmon of up to 70 pounds. November to December is a popular period for trout. Likewise, February to April is popular for salmon.
Finally, there are the Futaleufu River and Espolon Lake. Meaning “Big River” in Mapudungun, the river flows into Lake Yelcho until it meets the Pacific Ocean. Providing a diversity of silversides, puyenes and fontinalis trout, these spaces are excellent for catching a variety of fish. Meanwhile, the lake that lies around 5 miles from Futaleufu features an abundance of trout.
Futaleufu. Daniel Gonzalez. CC BY-ND 2.0.
TRAVELING THERE:
To visit these locations, consider booking through a fishing or travel agency, including Yellow Dog Flyfishing and Orvis.
Biltmore Orvis fly-fishing Boat. Ken Lane. CC BY-NC-SA 2.0.
Once there, consider supporting local Chilean fishing and tour guides. A popular option is River Trout Fishing.
Marcos Quiroz founded River Trout Fishing in 2014 and has grown his business while guiding throughout the Los Lagos Region alongside his father, Nelson Quiroz. Over 67 years old and with over 48 seasons of guiding experience, Nelson taught everything he knows about the fishing industry to his son.
With the company’s bilingual team, you can explore the Petrohue River, the Maullin River and the Lake Llanquihue area alongside people who truly know and understand the region.
Beyond the Los Lagos area, if you’re seeking to explore the cities of Santiago, Puerto Williams and Puerto Natales try hiring a local tour guide through ToursByLocals. That way, you can experience the beauty of Chile’s outdoors as well as its local culture while also supporting the livelihoods of local families.
Kathleen Shepard
An English and Art History Major at Boston College, Katie loves all things writing, culture, and travel. When not canyoneering across the Swiss Alps, snorkeling in the Galápagos, or photographing wildlife throughout Botswana, you’ll find her documenting about it in her latest story. She believes that every place is uniquely, wonderfully beautiful, and she’s grateful to be a travel and social action writer for CATALYST PLANET. Whether it be promoting a new trail or advocating for what matters, she hopes to continue making her words count!