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Fishing Spots: Junín de los Andes

Junín de los Andes is Argentina's undisputed trout capital, offering legendary fly fishing on the Chimehuin and Malleo rivers. Nestled at the foot of Lanín Volcano, this small town attracts anglers worldwide seeking trophy rainbow and brown trout in pristine Patagonian waters.

5 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
5 fishing spotsBest Season: Prime season runs November through April. Early season (Nov-Dec) offers excellent dry fly action as hatches begin. January-February brings warm weather and terrestrial fishing. March-April are the best months for trophy fish with fewer anglers on the water.
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Overview

Junín de los Andes has earned its reputation as the trout capital of Argentina through decades of world-class fly fishing opportunities. Located in Neuquén Province at the gateway to Lanín National Park, this charming town sits at the confluence of some of the most productive trout rivers in South America. The Río Chimehuin, flowing directly through town, is renowned for its massive rainbow and brown trout, with fish regularly exceeding 5 pounds. The nearby Río Malleo offers equally impressive fishing in a stunning volcanic landscape beneath Lanín Volcano. Combined with access to pristine lakes like Huechulafquen and Paimún, Junín provides an unparalleled variety of fishing environments that cater to both novice anglers and seasoned veterans of the sport.

Fishing Spots

Río Chimehuin

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, streamer fishing

Season

November to April

Permit

Required, ~$25 USD/day at local shops or online

Argentina's most celebrated trout river with crystal-clear waters flowing from Lago Huechulafquen. Exceptional rainbow trout averaging 2-4 lbs, trophy browns exceeding 10 lbs. Lower sections ideal for wading, upper river offers remote wilderness fishing.

Access: Flows through town; upper sections via RP 61

Río Malleo

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph, sight casting

Season

November to April

Permit

Special permit ~$30 USD/day

Spring creek-style river through open steppe beneath Lanín Volcano. Gin-clear water demands precise presentations. Large selective brown trout exceeding 8 lbs. Strictly catch-and-release in most sections.

Access: North via RP 23, approximately 40 km

Lago Huechulafquen

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, landlocked salmon

Technique

Trolling, shore casting, streamer

Season

November to April

Permit

Included in provincial license

Largest lake in Lanín National Park set beneath the volcano. Deep cold waters harbor trophy trout and landlocked salmon. Shore fishing near river mouths is productive. Its outlet forms the Chimehuin River.

Access: RP 61 west, approximately 25 km

Lago Paimún

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

Technique

Shore casting, float tube fly fishing

Season

November to April

Permit

Included in provincial license

Secluded lake connected to Huechulafquen with excellent fishing and fewer anglers. Turquoise waters surrounded by native forest. Brook trout in feeding streams, quality rainbows and browns in the main body.

Access: Past Huechulafquen on RP 61, ~40 km

Arroyo Quilquihue

stream

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Small stream dry fly, short casts

Season

December to March

Permit

Included in provincial license

Beautiful small stream connecting Lagos Lolog and Lácar. Perfect for intimate small-stream fishing with light tackle. Surprising numbers of quality trout responsive to attractor dries and small nymphs.

Access: South via RP 62

Regulations

Season

November 1 to April 30

Permits

Neuquén provincial fishing license required. Available at local shops and online. ~$25-40 USD/day.

Catch Limits

2-3 trout per day, minimum size 25 cm. Many sections catch-and-release only.

Catch & Release

Mandatory on premium waters. Single barbless hooks required in C&R zones.

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Gear Recommendations

5-weight fly rod (9 ft) for rivers and streams
6-weight fly rod for lakes and windy conditions
Floating fly line (WF5F) with sink-tip option
Leaders 9-12 ft, tippet 3X to 6X
Breathable waders and wading boots with felt soles
Dry flies: Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Royal Wulff, Parachute Adams
Nymphs: Pheasant Tail, Hare's Ear, Prince Nymph, Copper John
Streamers: Woolly Bugger, Zonker, Muddler Minnow
Polarized sunglasses for sight fishing
Landing net with rubber mesh bag

Guides & Outfitters

  • 1San Huberto Fly Fishing Lodge — full-service lodge with expert guides
  • 2Chimehuin River Lodge — riverside accommodation with guided trips
  • 3Patagonia Outfitters Junín — specialists in Chimehuin and Malleo
  • 4Fly Fishing Junín — local guides with drift boat trips
  • 5Estancia Tipiliuke — exclusive ranch with private river access

Best Season to Fish

Prime season runs November through April. Early season (Nov-Dec) offers excellent dry fly action as hatches begin. January-February brings warm weather and terrestrial fishing. March-April are the best months for trophy fish with fewer anglers on the water.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license in Junín de los Andes?

Yes, a Neuquén provincial license is mandatory. Available at local shops, tourism office, or online. Daily, weekly, and seasonal options. Río Malleo needs an additional special permit.

What is the best time to fish here?

Season runs November 1 to April 30. March-April are best for trophy fish and fewer crowds. November-December is great for dry fly enthusiasts.

Can beginners enjoy fishing in Junín?

Absolutely. Many guides offer beginner trips with all equipment and patient instruction. The Chimehuin near town has accessible sections perfect for learning.

Is catch-and-release mandatory?

Depends on the water. Río Malleo is entirely C&R, as are premium Chimehuin sections. Some lakes allow limited harvest. Always check current regulations.

How do I get to Junín de los Andes?

Nearest airport is Chapelco (CPC), 20 km away, with daily flights from Buenos Aires. Also reachable from Bariloche (~3 hours via Ruta 40). Car rental recommended.

What gear should I bring?

5-weight fly rod is standard. Floating line, 9-12 ft leaders, tippet 3X-6X. Essential flies: Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Pheasant Tail, Woolly Bugger. Waders essential year-round.

Junín de los Andes

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