Week 1: January 6 – 12, 2017
Welcome to Villa María Lodge 2017! You’ve likely heard that the season started with some skinny water levels across Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. Flows on the Rio Grande were no exception. Most fishermen who chase anadromous species know what that means: tough fishing and smaller returns of fish come to mind. We had similar concerns but when we started exploring we were surprised to see fish everywhere. Strong, powerful, spotless sea-run browns that despite the summer-like conditions keep pouring in.
Without a major spring run-off, the river’s structure including its major pools and runs remains similar to last year. Fish are moving fast and an empty pool in the morning will often have rolling and taking fish by the afternoon.
Weather has been mild, with some light wind and daily showers (but not high or strong enough in the headwaters to bump the river level). Thanks to calm days combined with low, clear water, we’ve been putting the single-handed rods matched with floating lines (mostly) to good use. We’ve also been fishing smaller and lighter flies. Classic prince patterns, sunray shadows, and green machines have been the top producers.
Largest fish of the week: 20 lbs.
Fish over 15 lbs: 14
By Alejandro Martello
