RIO MANSO LODGE
Rio Manso Lodge
Imagine casting to big, healthy trout in crystal clear water without seeing another person all day. There are miles of still and moving waters throughout Nahuel Huapi National Park with very little fishing pressure. Our waters offer a complete variety of different types of fishing, from big dry flies and weighted streamers to tiny emergers, nymphs and spinners. We fish both floating and sinking lines, dry and wet flies at different times of the season and throughout the day.
The Rio Manso is unique in this region in that it actually lies on the western side of the continental divide, and drains into the Pacific Ocean. Because of that, the geology and ecosystem are different from those of other area rivers, and require a different approach. With a system of interconnected lakes draining into the river, and the Manso actually running through some of these lakes, the variety of water types runs the gamut from smooth deep currents to tumbling white water and everything in between.
RIO MANSO
One section of the river markedly different are the Channels below Lago Hess. Justly famous for their unique blend of big fish and technical fishing, the Channels smooth currents provide a great dry fly challenge to any angler. Similar in nature to a big spring creek, large fish often cruise this area, forage in the reed beds, or setup along the banks, making this a required stop for any Rio Manso angler. Even though these fish can be selective, for some of our guests this is their favorite water. Some of the largest fish in the watershed live in this area, and because of the general lack of visible structure, we usually fish this area with dry flies casting to rising fish.
Much of your fishing, especially early in the season, will be with streamers and sinking lines. Hatches on most of the river are sporadic and the biggest fish are best drawn out with streamer patterns. There are several sections where nymphs are especially effective, and a tiny spring creek where sight casting to cruising fish can be a delightful change of pace.
The Lakes
The Rio Manso watershed is a blend of naturally interconnected river and half a dozen lakes. For most anglers, our lake fishing experience is something entirely new and unexpected. Glacial runoff makes its way from the glaciers of Mount Tronador through a series of lakes and into the Manso River. This filtration creates crystal clear water with visibility of as much as 40 feet at certain times. Heavily forested shorelines guarantee ideal structure which in turn makes for exciting sight casting when fishing with dry flies. With our Carolina skiffs providing easy and comfortable access, a day on any of our lakes can produce a once-in-a-lifetime catch for a persistent angler. Here are just a couple.
Lago Fonck
Lago Roca
Located just minutes from the lodge, Lago Roca always has a bit of mystery surrounding any day fishing its clear waters. A short channel connects it to Manso River, and fish can easily move between the river and lake. Early in the year, many fish migrate into the lake to take advantage of strong dragonfly hatches. The end of the season finds prespawning activity in the main lake tributaries as the fish fatten up for winter. Several of the largest rainbows and browns ever caught at the lodge have come from this lake, and are close to 30 inches and double digit weight!
Secret Spots
We fish many other waters in our area that we prefer not to talk about too much; secret streams, hidden lakes, hard to find honey holes. These are singular experiences that we’ll share only with our guests. They aren’t for everyone, and some require some extra effort to get to, but come and visit and we’ll happily take you to some very special parts of Patagonia – our Patagonia – places that most people never ever get to see.
Our FLY fishing season
The fishing season in Argentina runs from the beginning of November until the end of April. It is the exact opposite of the North American season, with our longest day of the year falling on December 21. Rio Manso Lodge is open for the entire season. Here’s an idea of what to expect:
Early Season
Excellent evening dry fly action continues into January. The river channels near the lodge feature multiple mayfly and caddis hatches that bring the fish up, especially early and late in the day. As temps warm in February, day time fishing can slow down on both the river and in the lakes. Terrestrials play an increasingly important role in the daily diet as summer progresses.
Summer Season
These months are often marked by high water, which gradually recedes in December. We’ll start the season fishing lots of weighted streamers on sinking lines. Mayfly and caddis hatches beginning in November will intensify in December providing increasingly better dry fly fishing. Early to middle December will see dragonflies hatching on the lakes and rivers bringing up the biggest fish and providing exciting dry fly action. Dragon fly nymphs and wooly buggers are very effective at this time.
Fall Season: Late March – End of April
As Fall approaches, water temperatures begin to cool and the fish become more active. Evening fishing is characterized by a brief flurry of activity right before dark while most daytime fishing is with streamers or large attractor dry flies. Big rubber legged dries work well in the lakes. April is when the big browns become aggressive prior to spawning season.
THE RIO MANSO DAY
If you’ve fished with a guide, outfitter or lodge in North America, our daily schedule will feel quite familiar. Unlike most lodges, however, we are usually out on the water for 9 -10 hours. If you really like to fish, you’ll love the length of our fishing day. For those who consider fishing just one part of a great Patagonia experience, we’re happy to bring you in whenever you’re ready.
While there is no such thing as an ordinary day at Rio Manso Lodge, we do have sort of a routine that begins most days with breakfast at 8am. After hot coffee, eggs, cereal, fresh fruit or whatever else you need to get going, you’ll meet your guide in the wader room around 9am. With the exception of a trip to the Pichi Leufu, or a horse ride into Lago Los Cesares for big brookies and bigger browns, none of our waters are more than 20-25 minutes from the lodge which allows you to spend more time fishing and less time riding around. When departing for the Pichi, or Cesares, you will have breakfast at 7:30am.
We fish until mid day, then stop for a streamside lunch which can be either hot or cold, and might include such items as steaks, quiches, sandwiches, salads, cheese, and fresh bread. Some of our guests like to take a siesta after lunch, but we’re not surprised if you want to get right back on the water!
After fishing through the afternoon, you would normally get off the water by 7-8 pm or so, and return to the lodge to clean up, take a sauna, or perhaps get a massage. We serve drinks and hors d’oeuvres before dinner in front of the fireplace. Dinner is usually served between 9 and 10 o’clock, although we’ve been known to eat much later if the fish are rising and you just can’t tear yourself away.
We are very flexible when it comes to arranging your day. If you have a special request, just let us know and we will do our best to accommodate you and give you the best experience possible.
Starting the day off
Streamside Lunch
Relaxing at the Lodge
RECOMMENDED FLY FISHING TACKLE
- Fly rods: You should bring at least two fly rods: 5-7 wts for streamer fishing and windier conditions, and a 4-5 wt for evening dry fly fishing. We strongly recommend bringing a third 5 wt as a backup. There are a limited number of rods at the lodge in the event you break one.
- Fly reels: Reels should be high quality, preferably disc-drag models loaded with a minimum of 80 / 100 yards of backing. The occasional 8-10 lb fish will test your gear to the limit! You may want a backup reel or extra spools for your reel. Having two rods rigged, one with floating line and one with sinking line will maximize your fishing time.
- Lines: Floating and sinking lines cover the fishing at Rio Manso Lodge. Weight forward or double taper floating lines are fine for dry fly and small streamer fishing. We recommend that you bring a 30 ft 150-250 gram fast sink line for your reel. The fast sinking lines are especially effective in the lakes and the faster, deeper stretches of the river. Most of our lakes have abrupt drop offs along the edges and the sinking lines get the fly down to where the fish are. If you have not cast a fast sinking line before, we recommend you get a little practice in before you come. It’s not difficult to learn, but it will
- Leaders: 7 ½ to 9 foot 2x-5x leaders will suffice for most fishing. We like to use fluorocarbon for tippets for its added abrasion resistance and low light reflectivity. Bring some extra spools of tippet in the 2x – 6x range. Evening fishing in the channels near the lodge can become very technical at times. Flies: Much of our fishing during the day is with streamers or large attractor pattern dry flies. See the separate fly list for complete recommendations. We do carry a full assortment of productive patterns at the lodge.
- Waders: Breathable waders are the best way to maximize your fishing experience. You can layer poly-pro or fleece underneath in cold conditions and turn them down during hot weather.
- Wading shoes: Sturdy shoes with good felt or rubber soles. While the footing is good, the Manso has many stretches of fast water with strong currents. Please be sure your waders and wading shoes are clean and dry before visiting to prevent the spread of invasive species like whirling disease, zebra mussels or didymo. We recommend the new rubber soled wading shoes and waders.
For an optimal experience throughout the year, we are thrilled to offer a range of new options that combine our three signature programs, each designed to highlight the unique features of every season.
During the vibrant summer months of November and December, we invite you to spend more days at our lodge. This is the prime season for dragonflies, offering a captivating natural spectacle that complements the warm, inviting weather. Immerse yourself in the beauty of our surroundings and take full advantage of the outdoor activities available during this peak time.
As the season progresses and the dragonflies start to disappear, the months of February, March & April become perfect for a different kind of adventure. This period is ideal for blending our programs, whether you choose to indulge in fishing at our deluxe camp or explore our uncharted lodge. These months offer a cozy, enriching escape, allowing you to experience the tranquility and charm of the changing landscape.
Tailoring your choices to the season ensures that you experience the best of what each time of year has to offer. Whether it’s the vibrant life of summer or the serene calm of the cooler months, our programs are designed to provide a seamless and enriching experience.
In all of these options, you will be provided with the exceptional Rio Manso service. Our commitment to human values and the high-quality experience you are accustomed to at our main lodge ensures that every visit is memorable and fulfilling.
Discover the perfect seasonal experience with us, where every moment is crafted to offer the ultimate in relaxation, adventure, and personalized service. Let us guide you through the best of each season, creating unforgettable memories all year round.