Argentina Trout
We have renewed our interest in Argentina trout and have developed what we call the “Trout Safari”. This trip incorporates the best lodges and the best guides, and is scheduled in a way to get the most fishing days with the least amount of travel.
After wading from one end of the Argentine trout waters to the other, we ended up focusing on Estancia Pilo Lil on the Aluminé River and the Limay River Lodge on the Middle Limay River. ince the 2021/2022 season, we have been offering these luxury destinations. These are not your typical fishing lodges, but instead they are among the best operations in Patagonia. Expect exceptional lodging, cuisine, service, staff, equipment, guides, and of course, fishing! Both are within large private ranches, providing exclusive access to the adjacent river sections, and guaranteeing our required “solitary” experience. If a 30 inch brown is on your bucket list, the Middle Limay is by far the best place to check that box. This is a great add-on to a dorado trip.
Accommodations
Pilo Lil Lodge
This lodge is located only 45 minutes from the San Martin de los Andes airport. A big part of the reason we use this lodge as part of the Trout Safari is that you can leave Buenos Aires in the morning and be casting to trout in the afternoon. This is a luxury lodge located within a large private ranch dedicated to fly fishing and hunting red stag. A beautiful setting, great facilities, and a great staff make it an enjoyable place to stay and fish. Expect red stag to wake you up bugling outside your room.
Limay River Lodge
This remote, but luxury lodge is on the banks of the Middle Limay River and provides private access to miles of the Middle Limay river. Depending on the river section your guide chooses, shuttles to the fishing can range from 5 minutes to 30 minutes,.
The lodge is located in a remote, harsh desert ecosystem, and is fully staffed and equipped. Expect exemplary service at every level. A professional chef keeps you guessing as to the next gourmet meal.
The lodge was closed for several years due to partner conflicts and reopened in 2025. It is by far the best lodge on the Limay, and one of the very best in the whole of Argentina.
The two lodges are generally used in conjunction with one another, with several days at each lodge.
Other Activities
The Pilo Lil lodge offers horse-back riding, hiking, birding, and ecotours for non-fishing guests. The Limay River Lodge is pretty much a fishing destination, and a non-fisher person would quickly run out of diversions. However, for those interested there is great birding and because of the unusual environment, an array of unusual mammal and bird species to view.
There is always revelry après fishing at the lodge. Typical beverages are provided. Special requests can be accommodated with advanced notice. The atmosphere is very casual.
The Fishing
Our “Trout Safari” currently utilizes two river systems, the Alumine’ and Middle Limay. Both are incredibly spectacular and range in ecosystem from alpine to desert.
At the Pilo Lil it also possible to fish rivers other than the Alumine’ if desired. The iconic and luxurious Pilo Lil is a great non fishing spouse destination, but the Limay River Lodge is pretty much just a serious fishing venue.
Both lodges utilize different river sections each day, with limited private access afforded by their location within large private ranches.
For both rivers, early season fishing is all about dry flies…BIG dry flies. Progressing into the Argentina fall (March and April), expect to transition into throwing big streamers for the largest fish. However, even in this period dry fly fishing is still a productive method. Count on raising more rainbows than you can count, with a typical size of 16 to 22 inches.
Middle Limay River
Alumina River
The Middle Limay River stands among the most extraordinary fly-fishing destinations in northern Patagonia—an exceptional tailwater that offers unmatched consistency, clarity, and abundance. Flowing from the Pichi Picun Leufú Dam for 50 miles through the vast Patagonian steppe before meeting the El Chocón Reservoir, the river sustains an ideal environment for thriving trout populations and a spectacular fishing experience. The size of the Middle Limay and limited access points significantly reduce angling pressure on that river.
The Middle Limay’s cold, oxygen-rich waters nurture prolific insect hatches, drawing strong, healthy rainbow and brown trout that rise eagerly to dry flies. Yet what truly sets this river apart is the presence of giant migratory browns—trophy fish that move up from the lake each season, offering anglers the thrilling chance to connect with Patagonia’s largest trout. With its maze of channels, deep pools, and cliff-lined runs, the river presents constant variety and challenge, perfect for both seasoned anglers and those discovering the magic of Patagonia.
If a 30 inch brown is on your bucket list, the Middle Limay is your river.
However, the Alumine’ also produces some great fish. The Alumine’s fishing is generally within the private canyon section of the Pilo Lil ranch, so you have the river pretty much to yourselves. The scenery is spectacular. The Aluminé River is renowned for its steady hatches and world-class dry fly fishing, while nymphs and streamers tempt powerful rainbow and brown trout throughout the season. With its willow-lined banks, crystal waters, and striking canyon views, the river is a perfect setting for both floating and wading days. Anglers can explore countless riffles, pools, and runs—all within minutes of the lodge—and easily combine their stay with excursions to nearby rivers, creeks, and lakes that complete this diverse and prolific fishery.
Both rivers utilize a combination of drift boat fishing and wade fishing.
Fishing Day
Generally breakfast is served from 7:00 AM to 7:45 AM and drift boat shuttles generally leave no later than 8:30 AM. Lunch is on the water, and fairly extravagant affair with specialized shore lunches. You will return to the lodges late in the day, where appetizers and a full service bar await. Dinner is generally 8:00 PM or later, as is the Argentine custom.
Travel
The morning flight from Buenos Aires generally has you arriving in San Martin de los Andes just before noon. The transfer from the San Martin de los Andes airport to Pilo Lil is only about 45 minutes, so you are fishing that afternoon. The Limay River Lodge is a 3 hour shuttle from Pilo Lil, and occurs in the morning of your transition day. Again, you are fishing the Middle Limay that afternoon, following a hardy lunch.
Argentina does not require a visa, and all international flights generally arrive in Buenos Aires. It is suggested that you stay one night in Buenos Aires on the morning of your arrival.
Pricing
Double Occupancy
2 people per room, 2 fishing (prices per person)
- Pilo Lil Lodge – $1,100 per day
- Limay River Lodge – $1,200 per day
A single occupancy room is an additional $200 per day.
Trips of any length can be arranged.
Included In Packages
- All shuttles, beginning with your transfer from the San Martin de los Andes Airport
- Fishing/guiding
- Lodging
- All meals, and a full bar
Not Included In Packages
- Flights
- Tipping
Recommended Tips And Gratuities
We ask that tipping for the staff and team members be in US dollars.
- Guides: $75 – $100 per day per boat
- Staff: $25 – $50 per day / per guest