Chile Fly or Spin Fishing

The Rio Grande

The Rio Grande, the largest and widest river in Tierra del Fuego, is regarded as one of the best rivers in the world for sea-run browns. The river originates in Chile and then travels west to the Atlantic on the Argentine side. During spring, the river is at its full width of 98 feet. Mid-summer, it decreases to about 65 feet or less. The Lodge’s section of the Rio Grande is much smaller than the lower Rio Grande, making it suitable for fishing with a single-hand 8-weight rod that allows you to cover both sides of the river.
Night Fishing is allowed here. Unlike Argentina, you can legally fish after dark in Chile.

The Fishing Program

Long Casts are Required.

The Rio Grande is not a river for beginners—winds can blow hard, and long casts are required to reach the fish. Sea-runs average 12 pounds, with many 18 to 20-pounders and a few up to 26 pounds. Beautifully colored resident browns weigh up to six pounds. Some nice-sized chromer lake-run browns enter the Rio Grande from Blanco Lake.

Fishing The Rio Grande

Fishing Methods:  All fishing is from the shoreline, with no need for boats. Rio Grande’s shores are generally free of obstacles, so backcasting is not a problem. Even in higher flows, the water maintains clarity. Blind fishing and wet fly techniques are often used. For the best success, the double haul cast is a necessary skill. In big water years, two-handed rods effectively cover the pools and help combat the common downstream wind. The wind is a factor on the Rio Grande, and any advantage you can get in keeping your flies wet is welcome.

A Typical Fishing Day:
Your day begins with a hearty breakfast served at 8:00 a.m., followed by a 9:00 a.m. departure to the river. If you’re fishing close to the Lodge, you’ll return around 1:00 p.m. for a relaxing lunch and siesta. For more distant beats, your guide will pack a fresh lunch in coolers to enjoy on the water. Fishing resumes at 4:00 p.m. and continues until dark. Afterward, return to the Lodge to freshen up before a flexible dinner service. Unwind with a post-meal drink by the fire—or, if you prefer, head back out for a few more casts under the stars. Night fishing is permitted until about midnight. For those choosing a late outing, an early dinner can be arranged, and the chef will have hot soup waiting for you upon your return.

Travel Time

Travel Time to the Rivers:  In addition to the Rio Grande, the region has several small rivers, creeks, lagoons, and lakes within a 90-minute drive from the Lodge. One of the largest fishing beats is about 14 miles from the Lodge, near the Argentine border. There are nearly 50 fishing pools within 37 miles of the Estancia.

Tierra del Fuego Weather

Tierra del Fuego Weather from November through April. Their seasons are the opposite of those in North America. Expect cool, crisp conditions, which are ideal for chasing sea-run browns. November marks the start of the season with highs in the mid-50s°F (13 °C) and steady winds. From December through February, anglers enjoy the region’s mildest weather—daytime temperatures range from 50 to 60°F (10–15 °C), with long daylight hours and consistent breezes. March brings cooler temperatures and a slight uptick in rainfall, while April tends to be colder and quieter, with daytime highs around 43°F (6°C) and calmer winds. Rainfall is generally light and spread throughout the season, though occasional showers and gusty days are common. Layered clothing, wind protection, and rain gear are essential for comfort in this rugged and remote fishing paradise.

Estancia Cameron Lodge

The recently refurbished lodge is less than a hundred yards from the Rio Grande. It sits high on a knoll with beautiful views of the Darwin range. On the Chilean side of the river is a native forest with two species of beech trees.

Each Angler Gets a Single-Occupancy Room

Each angler will have their own single-occupancy room. The Lodge accommodates up to six anglers per week in seven bedrooms (six with twin beds and one with a king bed), private bathrooms, and electricity. Laundry service is not provided.

Gourmet Meals Served in Dining Hall

Meals:  Breakfast includes eggs, ham, bacon, fruits, pastries, and yogurt. You’ll take a packed lunch, or if you’re close enough to the Lodge, return for lunch and a siesta. Hearty and traditional Chilean meals are prepared using locally sourced seafood (fish, king crab, scallops, and clams), beef, lamb, vegetables, and fruit.

Appetizers and a View

Alcohol:  The package includes alcohol:  cocktails and famous Chilean wines.
Communications:  Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi access at the Lodge. If you need to make phone calls, download the WhatsApp app. Everyone you’ll want to communicate with also needs to get the app.