Los Plateados

Atlantic Steelhead

Argentina

Half or full fishing weeks

Power specifications 220v, 50hz
Transfer info 3 ½ hours
Truck transfer

AVAILABLE WEEKS

Late February - May
RESERVE YOUR SPOT

CHASE CHROME IN WILD PATAGONIA

The river

Being Patagonia’s most important water course, Santa Cruz river free flows east for over 380 km (236 miles) from the glacier waters of Viedma lake, coming across La Leona river on its way to the Atlantic ocean. With an average width of 150 mts Santa Cruz river is home of the one and only Atlantic Steelhead run in the world.

Weather: In Santa Cruz River, Argentina, during March and April, you can expect temperatures to cool down gradually as you transition from late summer to early fall. High temperatures in March can range from around 17°C to 24°C (63°F to 75°F), while temperatures in April may range from 12°C to 19°C (54°F to 66°F). There might be some precipitation in April as you move towards the fall season. Be sure to check a local weather source for more specific and up-to-date information closer to your travel dates.

THE FISHING

The 20 km of Santa Cruz river that are fished, are divided in 2 beats, basically, upstream, and downstream, one for the morning and one for the evening session. Each beat has around 6 productive fishing spots that could vary from one year to another (in fish catching terms).

Predominant wind is west (straight from the andes) which will be always on your back or back sides. When wind changes and blows east, it goes straight into your face in most of the classic runs. For Those days, there’s a boat available with an outboard engine to go fish on the other side of the river.

Like most anadromous fish, steelhead in Santa Cruz river are no different from other species you would swing your fly for. It’s done 100% wading, depending on the run and the weight of the fly you could be casting at 45, 70, 90 or even upstream. Most of the time, long casts aren’t a must, though straight lines always help for a better swing.

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Los Plateados | Argentina

LODGE AND ACCOMODATION

The cabin is located 50 miles upstream from the river’s estuary. Lodging is arranged for 4 anglers in two double rooms with a private bathroom. Simple but comfortable, the cabin has everything you need. Strategically located, overlooking some of the best steelhead pools of the river, the cabin offers all comfort that you could need after a day of fishing.

Both breakfast and dinner are served in the cabin, prepared by an argentine chef, with some of Argentina’s finest beef and lamb. Lunch is arranged by the river side to get the most out of the fishing day. After a day of fishing you get back to the cabin where the warmth of the fireplace and a glass of wine will be waiting.

Whole lodge's electricity is run by a generator that will be on for breakfast until the fishing session departures, and back every evening when we come back from fishing (though, wifi and hot water will always be available).

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Steelhead

Steelhead

Steelhead

Steelhead

TACKLE

Rod & Reel Setup: Double-handed rods (12'6" #7wt to 14' #9/10wt) are ideal for tackling Santa Cruz steelhead. Pair with large arbor reels featuring sealed drag systems that perform reliably in cold conditions. These powerful fish will take you into your backing quickly, so ensure proper spooling with 100+ meters of 30-50lb gelspun or dacron backing.

Line Configuration: Running Line: Monofilament running line is recommended for reduced water resistance and longer casts, despite the initial learning curve.

Shooting Heads: Skagit heads are essential given Santa Cruz's windy conditions and the larger flies typically used. Recommended setups:

  • Full floating heads: Rio Skagit or Skagit Max
  • Triple density options: Airflo F.I.S.T or Rio Game Changer
  • Weight guide: ~500 grains for #8wt rods, ~600 grains for #9/10wt rods

Tips: Carry a complete set of both 9ft and 15ft tips in T8, T10, T14, and T18 weights to adapt to varying water conditions.

Argentina

Los Plateados

AVAILABLE WEEKS

Late February - May
RESERVE YOUR SPOT