Summary
The Rio Grande deserves the reputation as one of the finest fishing locations in the world this is due to the spectacular sea trout and stunning Patagonian vistas.
Kau-Tapen ("house of fishing" in the Ona language) is the original fishing lodge in Tierra del Fuego and the standard of elegance by which other lodges are measured, and has revolutionized the way in which the fishing world views big trout. And, while the name Kau-Tapen might be cumbersome to newcomers-this lodge has made the Rio Grande a household name for fly anglers the world over. Impeccable accommodations, plenty of elbow room on the Río Grande, experienced guides, select vehicles and equipment, Argentina's best wines and menus, and enviable fishing records since 1984. Come and be a part of Kau-Tapen's history yourself.
Fishing
The Kau Tapen stretch of the Rio Grande is some of the most productive sea trout water in the world. Although much of the fishing is accessible with a single handed rod the double hander can make life easier when the infamous wind starts to blow. Expect to fish a full range of lines depending on the conditions, from floating and intermediate lines through to fast sink tips.
The Lodge
The original Rio Grande fishing lodge Kau Tapen or “fishing house” is regarded as one of the finest fishing lodges in the world, with capacity for 12 rods, accommodated in nine en suite bedrooms. The quality of the food and levels of service are exceptional. Experience gourmet dining, with Argentina's famed beef and fine wines, traditional Asados (BBQ’s) and delicious desserts.
The lodge includes a masseur, sauna and steam room and also fly tying room, tackle shop, internet access and satellite phone.
Equipment
Despite many anglers preconceptions the Rio Grande is not a huge river by UK and Scottish standards. Therefore a 13 or 14 ft double hander coupled with short headed multi tip line or shooting head set up is perfect. Many of our clients have also fished exclusively with single handed rods on the Villa Maria water with great success using a combination of floating and Teeny 200-300 lines.
General Information
Season
The season runs from November through to April
Time difference from GMT
- 4 hours
Electricity
The electricity is supplied to 220 voltage sockets and clients are advised to take travel adapters to comply with Argentinean plugs.
Currency
The official currency is the Argentine Peso, but the US dollor is widely used USD$.
Tips
Tipping is entirely at your discretion but, as a guideline, each satisfied rod generally gives approximately US$250 - US$300 per week to their guide. Many also choose to tip the lodge staff and this is generally from $75-$100. Therefore the total tips can be US$400.
Visa requirements for UK citizens
None
Medical Requirements
There are no required inoculations for travel to Argentina, though you are advised to check with your doctor prior to departure regarding any vaccinations that may be recommended. If you are taking prescription medicines please ensure that you bring enough for the duration of your stay.
Insects
They are no biting insects in Tierra del Fuego.
Getting there.
Clients fly to Buenos Aires international airport and from there take the 3 hr flight to Rio Grande. You will be collected on arrival at the airport and transferred by four-wheel drive vehicle to the lodge, which takes approx 1 ½ hours. |