Rio Grande - the most productive sea-run trout fishery in the world

The Rio Grande flows from west to east, from the Andes to the Atlantic Ocean, through approximately 60 miles of Argentine territory. The landscape of Tierra del Fuego is reminiscent of Wyoming or the Scottish low country. It includes sparsely populated wilderness, large sheep farming estancias, and wild herds of llama-like Guanacos, as well as plentiful red fox populations and condors. The lodge is located on the banks of the Rio Grande, in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. Just a few miles above the tidal influence.

The Fishing

The first Brown Trout were stocked in Tierra del Fuego by English angler John Goodall in 1935. Shipped from Puerto Montt, Chile, 60,000 salmo trutta eggs survived the arduous journey to be planted on the Candelaria and McLennan rivers, both tributaries of the Rio Grande. These fish eventually found their way to sea, likely attracted by the rich nourishment found in the brackish estuaries. Sea-run brown trout now complete annual migratory cycles similar to salmonids, spawning during the fall in freshwater. Juveniles remain in the river up to four years until their first ocean migration, where they will feed and grow for about 6 months before their first return to freshwater, weighing approximately 3 to 6 pounds. Researchers have found sea-run brown trout that have spawned more than 6 times. A trout that has completed 4 cycles of returning to freshwater can weigh more than 20 pounds. The frequency with which they return to freshwater is also an indicator that the fish face few threats. It’s also an example of the benefits of catch and release.

Rio Grande Sea Trout

Rio Grande River

Rio Grande River House

Rio Grande Sea Trout

Rio Grande River

Rio Grande Sea Trout

Rio Grande River House

Rio Grande Sea Trout

Rio Grande Sea Trout

Rio Grande River House

Rio Grande Sea Trout

Rio Grande Sea Trout

Accomodation

Villa Maria Lodge is a modern, comfortable fishing lodge in every way today, with 6 en suite double and single rooms, smart furnishings, and spacious and gracious living areas. Delightful meals are prepared daily by the lodge’s dedicated chef, so you will fish each day well fortified for battle with the Rio Grande’s giant trout, and each evening a roaring fire and well stocked bar will welcome you back from the day’s adventures. Villa Maria also boasts a day lodge on the river bank. The day lodge is a small house with three rooms, including two queen-bedded rooms for midday siestas. Guests use the day lodge each day, and doing so increases fishing time.

Getting there

Guests fly into Buenos Aires, Argentina, and typically overnight there, with a day to spend touring this wonderful city. Arrival day at Villa María is set for Sunday. Commercial airlines fly from Buenos Aires to the airport of Rio Grande (3-hour flight), where a lodge representative will meet you. The transfer from Rio Grande airport to the lodge takes 30 minutes. On arrival at the lodge, guests are welcomed with cocktails by the entire Villa Maria staff.

Hosted-trip with Stefan & Alexander Haider

Dec 29th, 2022 - Jan 6th, 2023 

Rates 2022/2023

- Dec 30 – January 7: US$ 11.950
- January 6 – March 10: US$ 13.950
- March 10 – March 31: US$ 11.950
- Non-Angler Rate: US$ 4.550

Included

Seven (7) nights single occupancy accommodation. There are no single supplement charges on accommodations for this destination. Six (6) full days guided fishing (2 angler per guide). All beverages at the lodge. Meet and Greet at the Rio Grande Airport. Transportation to and from the Rio Grande Airport. Laundry service. Wifi access.

Not included

Round-trip airfare from your home to Buenos Aires (EZE). Domestic airfare from Buenos Aires (AEP) to Rio Grande (RIG). Meet & Greet and ground transfers in Buenos Aires. Meals and accommodation in Buenos Aires or any other en route cities. Fishing licences. Gratuities for guides and lodge staff. All fishing equipment, tackle and flies.

Quick Facts Villa Maria Lodge

For more details, please contact Stefan Haider via telephone +43 316 82210415 or email 

Rio Grande Lunch

Rio Grande Villa Maria Lodge

Rio Grande Villa Maria Lodge

Rio Grande Villa Maria Lodge

Rio Grande Villa Maria Lodge

Villa Maria Lodge Breakfast

Villa Maria Lodge River House

Villa Maria Lodge River House