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Fishing Spots: Lago Puelo

Lago Puelo offers a unique fishing experience in one of Patagonia's warmest lakes, surrounded by lush valdivian rainforest. The crystal-clear waters of the lake and its feeding rivers — Río Azul and Río Turbio — hold healthy populations of rainbow and brown trout in a stunning natural setting.

4 min readUpdated for 2025–2026 Season
4 fishing spotsBest Season: Season runs November through April. December-January is best for dry fly fishing on the Río Azul as warm temperatures bring prolific hatches. February is the warmest month with excellent lake fishing. March offers lower water and concentrated fish in pools. The mild microclimate means comfortable fishing conditions throughout the season.
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Overview

Lago Puelo, located in the national park of the same name in Chubut Province, is a hidden gem for anglers seeking a more intimate Patagonian fishing experience. The lake is unique in the region for its mild microclimate and connection to the Pacific watershed, creating conditions found nowhere else in Argentina. The Río Azul, flowing into the lake from the north, is a beautiful freestone river with excellent wade fishing for rainbow trout. The Río Turbio adds volume and nutrients, attracting larger fish near its confluence. The lake itself, with its remarkable clarity and turquoise color, offers productive shore fishing and trolling. The surrounding town of Lago Puelo provides a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere quite different from larger tourist centers, making it ideal for anglers who value tranquility alongside quality fishing.

Fishing Spots

Lago Puelo

lake

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout, perch

Technique

Trolling, shore fly fishing, spinning

Season

November to April

Permit

National park + Chubut license

A crystal-clear lake with remarkable turquoise water in a warm microclimate. Shore fishing is productive along rocky points and near river mouths. Trolling covers the deeper sections where larger trout hold.

Access: Town of Lago Puelo sits on the lake

Río Azul

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Dry fly, nymph fishing, wading

Season

November to April

Permit

Chubut provincial license

A beautiful freestone river flowing through native forest. Clear, wadeable water with excellent rainbow trout populations. Great dry fly fishing during summer hatches with some larger browns in deeper pools.

Access: North of Lago Puelo via RP 16

Río Turbio

river

Species

rainbow trout, brown trout

Technique

Streamer, nymph fishing

Season

November to March

Permit

Chubut provincial license

A glacially-fed river with slightly turbid water that becomes fishable in summer. Streamers are effective for larger fish. The confluence with the lake is a prime spot for big trout.

Access: West side of the lake

Arroyo Las Lágrimas

stream

Species

rainbow trout, brook trout

Technique

Small stream dry fly

Season

December to March

Permit

National park permit required

A small stream within the national park offering intimate fishing in pristine surroundings. Brook trout in the upper sections and rainbows lower down. Requires a short hike to access.

Access: Trail access within the national park

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.

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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
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

  • 1Lago Puelo Fly Fishing — local guides specializing in lake and river trips
  • 2Azul River Lodge — guided wade fishing on the Río Azul
  • 3Comarca Andina Outfitters — full-service fishing excursions
  • 4Patagonia Sur Fishing — experienced guides with boat access

Best Season to Fish

Season runs November through April. December-January is best for dry fly fishing on the Río Azul as warm temperatures bring prolific hatches. February is the warmest month with excellent lake fishing. March offers lower water and concentrated fish in pools. The mild microclimate means comfortable fishing conditions throughout the season.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Lago Puelo special for fishing?

Its unique warm microclimate, crystal-clear turquoise water, and connection to the Pacific watershed create conditions found nowhere else in Argentina. The area is less touristy than Bariloche, offering a more peaceful experience.

Do I need a national park permit?

Yes, fishing within Parque Nacional Lago Puelo requires both a national park permit and a Chubut provincial license. Available at the park entrance and local shops.

How do I get to Lago Puelo?

Nearest airport is Bariloche (BRC), approximately 2 hours south via RN 40. El Bolsón is the nearest town at 20 km. Car rental recommended.

Is there boat access on the lake?

Yes, there are boat launches and guide services offering lake trips. Kayak fishing is also popular on the calmer days.

Lago Puelo

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