Fly Fishing Gear to bring on your fly fishing adventure to Argentina

Fast action (3 - 5 piece) 6 weight travel rods are the best choice for an all-around rod in Argentina. Typically you will have 2 rods rigged all of the time (floating and sink-tip). An ideal combination of rods would be a 5 or 6 weight for dry flies and nymphs, and a 6 or 7 weight with a 200grain sink tip for streamer fishing.

Match your rods with your favorite freshwater reels. A quality reel with a reliable drag and at least 75 yards of backing is recommended.

75-100 yards is sufficient.

Dry fly leaders are typically 9-10 feet with 4X the most common tippet choice, and occassionaly using 3X and 5X. The same configuration is used for nymph fishing. For streamer fishing , plan on using short leaders tapered to 1X or 2X.

Waders
While wet-wading may be possible in January and February, make sure to bring a high-quality pair of breathable waders. In November, December, March, and April, breathable waders are mandatory. You will be spending an enormous amount of time in your waders, make sure you bring a set that is comfortable, warm, and fit well. Make sure that your socks and thermal layers fit easily underneath your waders long before you pack.

Wading Boots
On warm days, we prefer to wet-wade if possible. If you prefer wet wading, bring a high quality pair of sandals for the warm days. Nothing can be worse than wearing uncomfortable wading boots on an extended fishing trip. Make sure the boots that you choose have enough room for an extra layer of socks under your waders, have good ankle support, and have a sturdy felt sole for extra traction on slippery surfaces. Do not wear boots with studded soles!! Due to problems with Whirling Disease, consider bringing a pair of new boots on your trip to avoid spreading the disease.

Another essential item to bring, polarized glasses are mandatory for any type of fishing. They eliminate the glare from the water and allow you to see trout, rocks, obstructions and potential entanglements. Copper or brown lenses are best for freshwater fishing. Amber lenses are great for low-light conditions.

Dress at all of the lodges you will be staying at is very informal; however, it is suggested that you change from your fishing clothes into casual attire before dinner. The weather in Argentina is variable throughout the season and is comparable to weather in the Rockies. Argentina seasons are opposite of those in the U.S.. November is the same as May, December the same as June, and so on. In the beginning of the season temperatures range from 32 - 75 degrees. In the summer months of January and February, temperatures range from 45 to 90 degrees. It is best to be prepared for all temperatures as the weather can change quickly.

Nights are generally cool and anglers should pack for all of these temperatures, no matter what time of the year you visit. Rain can occur at any time, and everyone should always have a rain jacket. Be sure to ask your guide each morning what he thinks about the days weather. Anglers should always be prepared for rapid changes in weather by packing rain gear, fleece clothing, gloves, hats, etc.. in a day bag for the fishing day. Weather changes hourly in the mountains of Patagonia, and dont be surprised if you are wet wading in shorts at 10:00 AM and wearing a fleece and gloves after lunch.

The key to staying comfortable while fishing is layering your clothing properly, especially when using breathable waders and jackets. Synthetic materials are best to wear under waders and shells. Cotton and wool tend to absorb moisture while synthetics will move moisture away from your body, keeping you dry... and therefore warm.

Rain Jacket
Your rain jacket is your most important piece of clothing! Plan on experiencing some rain during your stay. A high-quality breathable rain jacket with a hood is mandatory. Your rain jacket should be big enough to fit over insulating layers and should not restrict your movement. We highly recommend a product with Gore-Tex for best results. Remember to leave your yellow rain slicker at home and wear subdued colors.

Insect repellent - However, there are very few mosquitoes or biting bugs in Patagonia.

Suntan lotion and lip balm

Pliers to crimp down barbs

Dry Fly floatant Line cleaner

Strike indicators (if you like to use them)

Binoculars - small (fun but not essential)

Assortment of split shot, fuse wire etc.

Small bag or duffel for extra reels etc.

Plastic garbage bags (for wet waders etc.)

Zip Lock plastic bags - gallon size - for packing just about anything including camera in rain.

Pre-moistened Towelettes - great for cleanup stream side.

English/Spanish booklet (fun to have)

Toiletries and Medications

Fishing Vest or Chest Pack
Bring a chest pack or fly fishing vest that can accommodate everything that you will need on the water for fishing.