Fishing Spots: Lago General Carrera
Lago General Carrera is South America's largest lake, straddling the Chile-Argentina border. Its turquoise waters, famous Marble Caves, and remote tributaries offer outstanding trout fishing in one of Patagonia's most dramatic landscapes.
4 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 SeasonOverview
Lago General Carrera (known as Lago Buenos Aires on the Argentine side) is the second-largest lake in South America, covering over 1,850 km². Its extraordinary turquoise color comes from glacial flour suspended in the water. The lake and its tributaries hold excellent populations of rainbow and brown trout, with some reaching trophy proportions. The Chilean side, accessed via the Carretera Austral, offers the most diverse fishing opportunities with rivers like the Río Ibáñez and Río Murta feeding into the lake. The famous Marble Caves add a stunning visual element to any fishing trip. Remote and uncrowded, this is frontier fishing at its finest.
Fishing Spots
Lago General Carrera
lakeSpecies
rainbow trout, brown trout
Technique
Trolling, shore casting, streamer
Season
October to May
Permit
SERNAPESCA license
A vast turquoise lake with trout throughout. Trolling covers the most water and targets larger fish in deeper sections. Shore fishing is productive at river mouths and rocky points, especially early and late in the day.
Río Ibáñez
riverSpecies
rainbow trout, brown trout, chinook salmon
Technique
Streamer, nymph, dry fly
Season
November to April
Permit
SERNAPESCA license
A major river feeding the lake from the north. Good wade fishing in lower sections with larger fish near the river mouth. Chinook salmon enter the system seasonally.
Río Murta
riverSpecies
rainbow trout, brown trout
Technique
Dry fly, nymph, wading
Season
November to April
Permit
SERNAPESCA license
A productive river on the lake's western shore. Clear water with consistent trout fishing. Less pressure than more famous rivers in the region.
Marble Caves area
lakeSpecies
rainbow trout, brown trout
Technique
Casting from boat, trolling
Season
November to April
Permit
SERNAPESCA license
The stunning Marble Caves area where fishing can be combined with cave viewing. Trout patrol the clear waters around the marble formations. A unique fishing-and-sightseeing combination.
Regulations
Season
Oct to May
Permits
SERNAPESCA license. ~$15-25 USD/season.
Catch Limits
2-5 trout/day, min 25 cm.
Catch & Release
Increasingly common. Barbless recommended.
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Guides & Outfitters
- 1Carrera Lake Fishing — specialized lake guides
- 2Puerto Tranquilo Outfitters — fishing and marble caves tours
- 3Aysén Adventure Fishing — multi-day lake excursions
Best Season to Fish
Season October to May. November-March is prime time. The lake's size means conditions vary greatly. Calmer mornings are best for shore fishing. Summer offers the warmest weather and longest days.
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Destination Guide
Planning
Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Lago General Carrera / Buenos Aires 2026 — Month-by-Month Guide
How to Get There
How to Get to Lago General Carrera / Buenos Aires 2026 — Flights, Driving & Transport
Budget Guide
Lago General Carrera / Buenos Aires on a Budget 2026 — Costs, Tips & Money-Saving Guide
Seasonal Guide
Autumn in Lago General Carrera 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Seasonal Guide
Spring in Lago General Carrera 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Seasonal Guide
Summer in Lago General Carrera 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Seasonal Guide
Winter in Lago General Carrera 2026 — Weather, Activities & Tips
Travel Tips
Essential Travel Tips for Lago General Carrera / Buenos Aires (2026)
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Lago General Carrera / Buenos Aires (2026) — Neighborhoods & Hotels
Weather & Climate
Lago General Carrera / Buenos Aires Weather Guide (2026) — Monthly Climate, Temperatures & Best Time
Adventures
Camping Guide
Camping in Lago General Carrera 2026 — Campsites, Tips & Gear Guide
Day Trips
Best Day Trips from Lago General Carrera / Buenos Aires 2026 — Distances & Driving Guide
Hidden Gems
Hidden Gems in Lago General Carrera / Buenos Aires (2026) — Secret Spots & Local Tips
Family Guide
Family Travel Guide to Lago General Carrera / Buenos Aires (2026) — Kid-Friendly Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions
How big is Lago General Carrera?
It is the largest lake in Chile and second-largest in South America at over 1,850 km². It straddles the Chile-Argentina border.
Can I combine fishing with the Marble Caves?
Yes! The Marble Caves near Puerto Río Tranquilo are a must-see. Fishing guides can combine a cave boat tour with fishing in the surrounding waters.
How do I get there?
Fly to Balmaceda/Coyhaique (GXQ), then drive south on the Carretera Austral. Puerto Río Tranquilo is about 4 hours from Coyhaique.
Is the fishing pressure low?
Yes, the lake's enormous size and remote location mean very low pressure. You can often fish all day without seeing another angler.