Fishing Spots: Esquel
Esquel offers outstanding fly fishing in western Chubut Province, serving as the gateway to Los Alerces National Park. The town provides access to productive rivers and pristine mountain lakes with excellent trout populations and far fewer anglers than more famous destinations.
Overview
Esquel is a frontier town in western Chubut Province that serves as the southern gateway to some of Patagonia's finest fishing waters. The nearby Los Alerces National Park protects ancient alerce forests and pristine waterways that harbor remarkable populations of rainbow, brown, and brook trout. The Río Futaleufú (also called Río Grande in its Argentine section), Río Percey, and the park's interconnected lake system provide diverse angling opportunities. Esquel's relatively remote location means less fishing pressure and a more authentic Patagonian experience. The town also boasts the famous "La Trochita" narrow-gauge railway, adding cultural interest to any fishing trip.
Fishing Spots
Río Futaleufú/Río Grande
riverSpecies
rainbow trout, brown trout
Technique
Streamer, nymph, dry fly
Season
November to April
Permit
Chubut provincial license
A large, powerful river with excellent trout populations. Big water requires 6-7 weight rods and strong streamers. Trophy brown trout lurk in deep pools and undercut banks. The river's size provides plenty of space for anglers.
Río Percey
riverSpecies
rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout
Technique
Dry fly, nymph fishing
Season
November to April
Permit
Chubut provincial license
A beautiful river within the national park flowing between ancient alerce forests. Clear, wadeable water with consistent hatches and willing trout. A favorite among visiting fly fishers for its scenery and fish quality.
Lago Rivadavia
lakeSpecies
rainbow trout, brown trout, landlocked salmon
Technique
Trolling, streamer from shore
Season
November to April
Permit
National park + Chubut license
A stunning lake within the national park with cold, deep water holding large trout and salmon. Shore fishing at inlets and outlets is productive. Boat access allows trolling the deeper sections.
Lago Menéndez
lakeSpecies
rainbow trout, brown trout
Technique
Shore casting, trolling
Season
November to April
Permit
National park + Chubut license
A remote and pristine lake accessible only by boat, surrounded by ancient alerce forest. The difficulty of access means very low fishing pressure and wild, unsophisticated trout.
Río Arrayanes
riverSpecies
rainbow trout, brown trout
Technique
Dry fly, nymph, sight fishing
Season
November to April
Permit
National park + Chubut license
Connects Lago Rivadavia and Lago Verde. Crystal-clear water allows sight fishing for large trout. One of the most scenic fishing spots in all of Patagonia, flowing through ancient forest.
Regulations
Season
November 1 to April 30
Permits
Chubut provincial license required. ~$20-30 USD/day.
Catch Limits
2-3 trout per day, min 25 cm. National park waters stricter.
Catch & Release
Mandatory in national park waters. Barbless hooks required.
Gear Recommendations
Guides & Outfitters
- 1Esquel Fly Fishing — local guides for park and river trips
- 2Los Alerces Outfitters — specialized park fishing guides
- 3Patagonia Fishing Adventures — full-day guided excursions
- 4Chubut River Guides — experienced guides with boat access
Best Season to Fish
Season runs November through April. December-January offers the best dry fly fishing with warm weather and prolific hatches. February can be windy but fish remain active. March-April brings spectacular fall colors in the alerce forests and eager pre-spawn trout.
Drive to Patagonia's Best Fishing Spots
A rental car gives you the freedom to reach remote rivers and lakes, fish at dawn, and explore pristine waters most anglers never find.
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Planning
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access fishing in Los Alerces National Park?
The park has several access points from Esquel. You need both a national park fishing permit and a Chubut provincial license. Day passes are available at park entrances.
Is Esquel worth visiting just for fishing?
Absolutely. The combination of Los Alerces National Park fishing, the Río Futaleufú, and the town's authentic Patagonian character make it a worthwhile destination. Less crowded and more affordable than Bariloche.
What is La Trochita?
The famous narrow-gauge steam railway, also called the "Old Patagonian Express." It runs tourist trips from Esquel and makes a great activity for non-fishing days or travel companions.
How do I get to Esquel?
Esquel has its own airport (EQS) with flights from Buenos Aires. Also reachable by car from Bariloche (approximately 4 hours via RN 40) or El Bolsón (approximately 2 hours).