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Fishing Spots: Aluminé

Aluminé is a remote fishing paradise in northern Neuquén Province, offering outstanding fly fishing on the Río Aluminé and pristine lakes within the Pehuenia region. Famous for its large rainbow trout and scenic araucaria forests, it provides a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.

3 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
4 fishing spotsBest Season: Season runs November to April. December-January is prime time with warm weather and good hatches. February can be windy but fishing stays productive. March offers fewer visitors and aggressive pre-spawn fish.
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Overview

Aluminé is a small town in northern Neuquén Province, gateway to the Pehuenia region and its spectacular Monkey Puzzle (araucaria) forests. The Río Aluminé is one of Patagonia's finest trout rivers, flowing through dramatic basalt canyons and open steppe. The river holds exceptional rainbow trout averaging 2-4 pounds with trophy fish exceeding 8 pounds. Nearby lakes Aluminé and Moquehue add variety with lake fishing in stunning volcanic landscapes. The town's remote location keeps fishing pressure extremely low, making it a favorite among anglers who know Patagonia well.

Fishing Spots

Río Aluminé

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, streamer

Season

November to April

Permit

Neuquén provincial license

A powerful freestone river flowing through basalt canyons and steppe. Excellent rainbow trout averaging 2-4 lbs with trophy fish over 8 lbs. Varied water from fast pocket water to deep pools. Best sections require guide knowledge.

Access: Multiple access points from town along RP 23

Lago Aluminé

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, landlocked salmon

Technique

Trolling, shore casting, streamer

Season

November to April

Permit

Neuquén provincial license

A deep volcanic lake surrounded by araucaria forests. Good trolling for salmon and large trout. Shore fishing productive at inlet streams.

Access: West of Aluminé

Lago Moquehue

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

Technique

Fly fishing from shore, trolling

Season

November to April

Permit

Neuquén provincial license

A scenic lake at higher elevation, surrounded by pristine araucaria forest. Less visited than Aluminé, offering good fishing with beautiful scenery. Brook trout in feeding streams.

Access: Northwest of Aluminé via RP 11

Río Ruca Choroy

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Nymph, dry fly, small stream

Season

December to March

Permit

Neuquén provincial license

A smaller tributary with excellent fishing in a forested setting. Willing trout in clear water, ideal for wading and dry fly fishing.

Access: South of Aluminé

Regulations

Season

November 1 to April 30

Permits

Neuquén provincial license. ~$25-40 USD/day.

Catch Limits

2-3 trout/day, min 25 cm. Many sections C&R.

Catch & Release

Mandatory on premium waters. Barbless hooks.

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Gear Recommendations

5-weight fly rod (9 ft) for rivers
6-weight fly rod for lakes and wind
Floating fly line with sink-tip option
Leaders 9-12 ft, tippet 3X to 6X
Breathable waders and wading boots
Dry flies: Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Royal Wulff
Nymphs: Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Prince Nymph
Streamers: Woolly Bugger, Zonker, Muddler Minnow
Polarized sunglasses
Landing net with rubber mesh

Guides & Outfitters

  • 1Aluminé Fly Fishing — local expert guides
  • 2Pehuenia Lodge — fishing lodge in the araucaria forest
  • 3Río Aluminé Outfitters — specialized river guides
  • 4Northern Patagonia Fishing — full-service excursions

Best Season to Fish

Season runs November to April. December-January is prime time with warm weather and good hatches. February can be windy but fishing stays productive. March offers fewer visitors and aggressive pre-spawn fish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Aluminé?

Nearest airport is Chapelco (CPC) in San Martín de los Andes, about 2.5 hours south. Or drive from Bariloche (about 4 hours). Rental car essential.

Is Aluminé truly remote?

Yes, it is much quieter than Bariloche or San Martín. This is part of its appeal — fewer anglers, wilder fish, and a more authentic Patagonian feel.

What is the Pehuenia region?

A region of northern Neuquén known for its araucaria (Monkey Puzzle) forests, volcanic lakes, and Mapuche indigenous communities. Beautiful scenery and cultural richness.

What size trout can I expect on the Río Aluminé?

Rainbow trout average 14-18 inches, with trophy fish over 22 inches. Brown trout can be even larger. The river is known for consistent quality fishing.

Aluminé

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