If you are a single angler or just looking to travel in a group with like-minded people, then our exclusive weeks Sea Trout fishing holiday to Las Buitreras Lodge in Argentina is designed for you. Each year we have exclusive peak weeks at this lodge just for Sportquest Holidays customers. This world-famous destination offers an unparalleled fishing trip, unlike any other. The catch statistics for size and numbers on both the Rio Gallegos River and the Rio Grande rivers are very similar. The main difference between them is if you like more technical fishing, the Rio Gallegos is an absolute dream to fish.
On these exclusive Sea trout trips, we manage the Sea Run Brown Trout fishing so that all 12 customers fish in solitude for unpressured fish on 25 private miles of both banks of the Rio Gallegos River. We run a guide and beat rotation to ensure that all 50 named pools are well-rested, and you get the chance to learn from each professional, bilingual guide. This fishing is exciting and varied, with excellent fly water that will reward you for approaching it with respect and understanding. It certainly is an exciting river to fish with pools ranging from deep stony runs to cut banks. Plus, as the Rio Gallegos River is relatively shallow, it makes for easy wading and eliminating the need for fast sinking lines.
If the real Sea Trout fishing Argentina experience is what you are looking for combined with like-minded anglers on a exclusive group trip, then look no further.
As the Rio Gallegos River is shallow and easy to wade in the central parts, although it is a more technical river to fish, this is part of the pleasure as it is even more rewarding than just fishing the same deep pool for a whole session. An estimated 70-90,000 Sea Trout return to the Rio Gallegos every year and spread out over 300 km of water. Therefore, these fish are less concentrated than on the more famous, deeper and considerably shorter Rio Grande in Tierra del Fuego. However, the sheer numbers and size of fish in this river are outstanding, with fish averaging around 10lb. Still, with every cast, there is the opportunity to hook one of Patagonia’s explosive Sea Trout that do reach 30lbs.
Fly fishing for Sea Trout on the Rio Gallegos demands a quitter approach than others, using small nymphs, light tippets, floating or intermediate lines, and single-handed or switch rods. The better and more discrete the presentation an angler can make, the more fish you will catch. The broader sections of the river will require longer and more powerful spey rods to cast and control a long line. However, you still need to have a careful approach; therefore, wading is discouraged or kept to a bare minimum.
All anglers will fish in pairs and fish with one guide on a rotation system, where you fish two sessions per day, one in the morning and again in the evening. This allows for the main meal of the day to be taken back at the lodge around lunchtime and allows you time for a good needed siesta afterwards. However, for those still with an abundance of energy, the home bridge pool can be fished during the rest period. After an excellent rest period, you will then depart in the early evening and fish into the dark before returning to the lodge for more welcoming drinks and food. As mentioned in each fishing session, you will fish a zone with a guide who stays in that zone all week, and then in the next session, you move up one zone. This rotation system means that everyone gets to fish in each zone in both a morning and evening session, plus they get to fish with every guide twice during your week.
Las Buitreras Lodge is home to the most prolific Sea Trout Fishing Argentina on the Rio Gallegos River. Most pools can be covered with a one-handed rod; however, a two-hander is often useful when conditions are windy or dictate larger flies’ use. The wind can be powerful in this section of Patagonia; believe it or not, this is a good thing! The prevailing wind is westerly and blows down the river allowing huge casts. The wind helps by keeping the surface is broken, which dulls the amount of light in the river and makes lots of surface noise, enabling anglers to take large, normally wary Seatrout throughout even the brightest days. Usually, the wind calms down as the sun drops in the evening.
The Las Buitreras bilingual guide staff are some of the most talented casters and instructors in Argentina. They are loyal to Las Buitreras and work as a collective unit with no competition amongst each other. The long-standing team are as knowledgeable as they are friendly and equally hard-working. Crucially they know their stretch of the river backwards.
Guiding based on two anglers per guide on each zone, the zone and the guide rotation system are a significant advantage to the customers because they allow each guide to know exactly what is happening on his beat during a particular week. At the start of every week, the guides swap beats and brief each other on how their beat is fishing. This is unquestionably a key component in the lodge’s success and another reason customers return each year.
If you would like to see how good guiding and fishing is watch our YouTube videos on Las Buitreras
The season on the Rio Gallegos starts in late October as the Sea Trout begin to enter the river in small numbers. However, for the travelling angler, fishing starts typically at the end of December. This is when considerable and reliable numbers of Sea Trout begin to enter the system. January, February and March are peak months for fresh, bright chrome Sea Trout. We open for customers to fish right up to the middle of April, after which you will start to see spawning beds in the middle to upper portions of the Rio Gallegos. Around the 1st May, Sea Trout are also spawning in the Penitente and Ruebens, two tributaries to the Rio Gallegos. Therefore at this time of the year, we close the fishing.
A question that gets asked many times is it possible to extend my stay? The simple answer is yes, you can stay at Las Buitreras for as long as you wish; however, the fishing is sold in set weeks. Sportquest also has many additional destinations in Argentina to offer either full or half week add ons. We can arrange for you to fish different rivers for Sea Trout, fish smaller rivers for wild Brown Trout, Chase monster Chinook Salmon and even Golden Dorado fly fishing. Being the UK leading specialist in fishing holidays to Argentina, we can tailor your itinerary to suit. Please feel free to ask, and we will always work something out for just you. View all tours in Argentina
As mentioned, the lodge was purposely built for anglers and offered a perfect blend of luxury and rustic living. The lodge itself is comfortable with a wonderfully welcoming, relaxed and homely atmosphere. There are six twin and two single bedrooms, all with an en-suite bathroom & showers. Although we can accommodate up to 14 guests at a time, we welcome a maximum of 12 fishermen per week; however, this extra space allows us to offer a few more rooms on a single basis. Built around the lodge outside is a large conservatory that serves as the main drying room and changing room. When you arrive at the lodge, you will find your own personal space with your name neatly written on a blackboard above your pegs.
Downstairs in the lodge is an open plan where you and your fellow guests will enjoy all your meals on the huge lodge dining table. There is also a large lounge area with lots of comfortable seating where you will enjoy the late evening snacks and plenty of drinks. This is a great area to relax and unwind after each session and catch up on all the stories of each days fishing from the whole group.
There is a fly tying bench in the lounge for those who wish to try their hand at a few flies, as there is nothing more rewarding than catching a fish on some you have tied yourself. Those who do not tie flies do not worry; just off the lounge is the main office, and inside, you will find a small tackle shop. The shop has all the flies you could ever wish for on your week, plus it also has a small selection of both fly lines, tippets and ploy leaders. The shop also has a small gift area where you can purchase branded clothing and memento’s to remember your stay.
Outside the lodge, there is plenty of room with rod racks in the gardens to sort your rods at the end of each session. Also, in the garden, there is a spacious courtyard that is protected from the wind, here we have a large fixed outdoor stone grill and terrace for hosting the weekly traditional Argentine assados (BBQ)
The lodge is run on a generator system; the generator is controlled by a timer and is only on at certain times, when it’s time to go fishing and when you return. For in the night time there are energy-efficient lights that work 24hrs per day, so light is always available. For charging electrical devices, it is advisable to bring spare batteries to charge items while you are fishing as there is no generator running overnight.
The lodge has WiFi that is available 24hours per day; please note that the WiFi signal is via a state-of-the-art satellite system; however, it is only suitable for e-mail and chat apps like Facebook and WhatsApp.
Breakfast and the day’s main meal are served at the dining room table, while the evening finger food is served around the lounge table and chairs. Breakfasts consist of both bowls of cereal, yoghurts, fresh fruit and both freshly cooked bacon and eggs to our own specification. There is also plenty of toast, jams, and orange juice tea/coffee to wash it all down.
The day’s main meal will be served as a three-course lunch lubricated with unlimited amounts of beer or Argentina red wine. Meals are of a very high standard, all cooked by a professional chef, ensuring you enjoy an inspiring range of both Argentinean and continental dishes throughout your week.
The lodges wine cellar has a fantastic selection of red wine from the Mendoza and San Juan regions. It is also stocked with Cerveza Isenbeck, an outstanding local beer. The lodge can and will cater to any individual dietary needs. Please just inform the house staff manager, who will welcome you on arrival, if there are any food items you either dislike or are allergic to.
In the evenings, when you return from the evening fishing session, finger food of delightful variety will be served. Each night will be a different themed night of food and, again, limitless beer and wine. Which goes a long way to create a homely and welcoming atmosphere for all guests at the end of each day. Just another reason why everyone falls in love with this trip.
Although the fishing days are fixed, the below itinerary is still flexible should you require additional free days to explore at the beginning or end of your holiday; we can tailor this itinerary to suit you personally. Feel free to talk to our travel consultants who can explain all options available.
Please note that depending on what international airport you depart from, travel to this destination may involve an overnight flight and/or an overnight hotel.
Once flights are available, your itinerary will be finalised.
Depart Any international Airport (See Details)
Arrive Buenos Aires
Transfer from the airport to Buenos Aires Hotel
On arrival in Buenos Aires, take a taxi (Not Included) to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is free to relax and explore this beautiful city.
Overnight Accommodation: Buenos Aires Standard Hotel in a twin room on a bed & breakfast basis
Transfer from Buenos Aires Hotel to Internal Airport
Subject to your domestic flight times, allow enough time to take a taxi (Not Included) to the internal airport for your domestic flights.
Aim to arrive at the airport no later than 2 hours before departure.
Depart Buenos Aires
Arrive El Calafate
Transfer from El Calafate Airport to Las Buitreras Lodge
On arrival at El Calafate airport, you will be met and transferred to the lodge (around 4 hours drive).
Once at the lodge, you will be shown to your rooms, and the rest of the day is yours to either relax or, if you prefer, set up all your rods ready for the week ahead.
Overnight Accommodation: Las Buitreras Lodge in a twin room on a full board basis
On your first two fishing days, you’ll be paired up with your fishing partner and will fish together throughout the trip. The fishing days are around ten hours long, split into morning and evening sessions. The river is divided into six zones; during each session, you will fish a different section of the river. Each of our guides remains in the same zone all week. This rotation system means every angler gets to fish each zone during a morning and evening session, along with a session with every guide.
Overnight Accommodation: Las Buitreras Lodge in a twin room on a full board basis
On your third and fourth fishing day, you’ll enjoy more fishing on the famous Rio Gallegos River for the hard-fighting Sea Trout that reside within it. The fishing on the river is either with double-handed or single-handed rods, depending on the conditions, like the wind, water levels, and clarity. The wind can be fierce in this region of Patagonia, but believe it or not, this is a good thing. The prevailing wind is westerly and blows down the river, allowing huge casts; it also helps ripple the water’s surface, making the Sea Trout less wary.
Overnight Accommodation: Las Buitreras Lodge in a twin room on a full board basis
On your final two days of fishing, if you’ve been lucky enough to land a few Sea Trout throughout your week, it may be the time to try for a trophy-sized specimen. The fish in the Rio Gallegos average around 10lb, but with every cast, there is the opportunity to hook one of Patagonia’s explosive Sea Trout that reaches sizes of over 30lbs. A fish of a lifetime if only ever one cast away.
Overnight Accommodation: Las Buitreras Lodge in a twin room on a full board basis
Transfer from Las Buitreras Lodge to El Calafate Airport
Early morning, you will be transferred back to El Calafate airport for your return internal flights. (around 4 hours drive)
Depart El Calafate
Arrive Buenos Aires
Transfer from the airport to Buenos Aires Hotel
On arrival in Buenos Aires, take a taxi (Not Included) to your hotel.
The remainder of the day is free to relax and explore this beautiful city.
Overnight Accommodation: Buenos Aires Standard Hotel in a twin room on a bed & breakfast basis
Transfer from Buenos Aires Hotel to International Airport
Subject to your international flight times, allow enough time to take a taxi (Not Included) to the international airport for your return flights.
Aim to arrive at the airport no later than 3 hours before departure.
Depart Buenos Aires
Arrive Home
Please note that depending on what international airport you wish to return to, travel from this destination may involve an overnight flight and/or an overnight hotel. Once flights are available, your itinerary will be finalised.
The season runs from December to March.
Season: November to April
Peak: January to February
Weight: 5lb to 35lb
Average Weight: 14lb
Season: November to April
Peak: January to March
Weight: 1lb to 6lb
Average Weight: 2lb
Season: November to April
Peak: January to March
Weight: 5lb to 26lb
Average Weight: 12lb
N/A
Remember that Sportquest Holidays' services are completely FREE! When you book a trip with Sportquest Holidays, you never pay more than when you book directly with the lodge and flights independently.
| From | To | Duration | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29/01/2026 | 09/02/2026 | 10 | £9,891 | Enquire Now |
Prices are per person and based on 2 people sharing a twin room and 2 anglers per guide. (unless otherwise stated) and are correct at the time of going to press. Subject to time of year or date and currency fluctuations, these prices may fluctuate slightly due to flight price increases or fuel surcharge.
If you want to be part of a crowd then this is not the venue for you, but if you want to visit one of the most unspoiled rivers on the planet with stunning scenery, incredible wildlife and see only you're angling partner and guide on dozens of named pools then look no further.
As a relative newcomer to the art of freshwater fly fishing I was a little concerned with reports saying this is a technical fishery,my fears were soon removed on meeting the guides and Christer and with some casting instruction and advise my hope of a sea trout were soon realised.
The lodge is clean and comfortable, the staff very attentive with a fine choice of food and drinks.
A big thanks to Sportquest Holidays, solid adventures and all fellow anglers British and Scandinavian for great company and finally a note of thanks to guide Luciano for his help in fulfilling my dream of a 20lb sea trout.
Kevin
It was a pleasure to have you on the trip. The look of your face when you landed your first ever Sea Trout and then the one you dreamed of over the magical 20lb was a pure picture.
I personally can not wait to go back so hope to see you again soon.
Regards Peter
For me there was no "best part", the whole experience added up to something that I'd previously thought to be available to only privileged anglers.
I was pleasantly surprised to find that the mix of guests covered all aspects of life and experience, from complete novices to seasoned anglers.
From the outset everyone was friendly and this, along with the comfortable accommodation, made for an atmosphere that was both relaxed and informal. Special mention must go to the lodge staff and the guides, I have never before met so many pleasant and happy people, there were genuinely pleased to meet and help us and we wanted for nothing.
My stand out moment was when I was shown how to fish a pool during the day in preparation for the evening session. At dusk I was put into the pool on my own and told that if I made one bad cast then the fish would leave the pool. No pressure ! I hooked a fish on my fourth perfect cast and the guide was probably as pleased as I was when we landed it. Total satisfaction...
I really would struggle to suggest any improvements that could be made to this experience, maybe an option to visit Rio Gallegos ??
In the words of Arnie...........I'll be back.
David
Thanks for your kind comments and scores for both us and the lodge. We will pass on all your kind comments to the staff and guides.
It was a real pleasure to have you on the trip. I can still remember us all meeting at the airport for the first time, with no one really knowing what to expect. Everyone had their own ideas and dreams. I think it would be fair to say that the reality more than exceeded any of our dreams. With over 120 fish between us all was just a dream trip.
As you said you will be back so I hope to see you and share your company again soon.
Regards Peter
Fantastic holiday lots of fish and great food and service at the lodge.
Not for people who cannot cope with windy conditions as some days it blows quite hard believe me when it does it's a physical challenge.
The fishing can be very technical depending on conditions, also being proficient at Spey casting (unlike me) would be an advantage .
Having said that if you persevere and are determined you can reap rewards greater than your dreams
Personally having lent the rod and reel and had never cast double handed before, I luckily managed six double figure fish landing 10 over 4lb in total.
Fortunately for me my dreams came true, yours very easily could too, amazing fishing in unspoilt surroundings.,all in all,a stunning trip.
Forgot to mention the guides are fantastic informative and very patient with learners like me!
Tony
Thank you for all your kind words. I totally agree the guides and lodge staff take great care of everyone and its their attention to detail that makes this not just a good holidays but an unforgettable holidays.
I would also just like to add and say thanks for your company on the trip, seeing your face returning after each session was a picture. Like a little boy on Christmas day who had received all the presents he had wished for.
I hope to see and get the chance to travel with you again.
Kind Regards Peter
Right from the moment we were warmly & enthusiastically met at the airport in Rio Gallegos by some of the guides and our, soon to become friends, Swedish lodge mates; to the drop off 6 strenuous full days fishing later, we were made to feel right at home amongst kindred spirits.
As a beginner to fly fishing and a "girl" it could have posed a challenging week in a mans world but everybody was so friendly & helpful.
Special personal thanks to the girls (staff) at the lodge. Always a welcome mug of tea for me on return from fishing followed swiftly by a fortifying glass or two of delicious Argentinian wine!
Las Buitreras offers comfortable living with a great open plan dining/lounge area; great food , great company, great fishing!
The guides are excellent and I was delighted to land an 11 pounder on my second day in Zone 1 with Claudio helping and encouraging me all the way.
As a nature lover I was thrilled to see in particular the flamingos, skunk, armadillo, lama, bird life and of course all of the sheep and beautiful Gaucho horses roaming free.
Awesome landscape, huge skies night & day and a truly amazing experience which I hope I will be blessed enough to experience again!
Alison
Welcome back home.
Thank you so much for completing the customer feedback form. It is so nice to see that you enjoyed the holiday. I am sure everyone on the group trip all agree, sometimes there are trips that just stand out above the rest and this was one of them.
It was especially nice that in total we had 3 ladies in the group, all pretty new to fly fishing and a real testament to the guides that you all managed to catch fish and some nice big ones. (Mind you as the guides always say they love teaching ladies as you listen)
Both me and Tracey really enjoyed yours and everyones company and hope to see you all again sometime soon.
Thank you for all your custom over these last few years and we look forward in assisting you again soon.
Kind Regards Peter
True wild Brown Trout fishing. It was great to fish somewhere that is still totally unspoilt, just fantastic.
Yes we like to think our places are still true and wild. It will be good to have you back soon.
There is just so much fly fishing, everything was perfect thank you and the guides for such a great trip.
Thanks Mark, yes it is a great place. I would call it a fly fisherman's dream.
We had some low water for the first two days, but then the water rose 6inch overnight which made an amazing difference.
So much so we could not believe it, most days we landed 4 fish each day.
The staff and guides know exactly how to fish all the beats in the varying conditions.
First class operation for anyone interested in the best Sea Trout fishing in Argentina.
Charles, it was nice to catch up after your trip and thanks for both the feedback and pictures, we will put some on our blogs.
Shame about the river conditions at the start, but as we all know river and weather conditions plays a big part in all our fishing. So glad that is was good in the end and you all enjoyed the destination.
I will pass all our nice comments on to the staff for you.
Regards
Both my wife and I travelled to Las Buitreras with Sportquest Holidays (The first time we have used their services). We were both a little unsure if the destinations would be suitable for us both as we have previously only ever fished with single handed rods.
I am very pleased to report that we had no need to worry. At certain times we used single handed rods and at others with help from the guides and tackle provided by the lodge we so got to grips with the double handers.
I massive thank you from both of us for such a great holiday, we loved the scenery, river, lodge, food and guides.
This was meant to be a one off trip for us both but now we are unsure as we feel like we left our home back at Las Buitreras
That is what we like to hear that you both had a great holiday as that is what we try to provide. Loved the pictures as there are some great pictures of you as a couple. So nice to see more and more ladies fish.
You always need to go back as I am sure they will welcome you both back like it is your second home.
Thanks for choosing Sportquest and I look forward in helping you both again soon.
We have just returned home from what can only be described as a amazing holiday.
We had 1 full weeks fishing at Las Buitreras Lodge, which was our first but not last trip.
Can you please pass on our thanks to all the guides and lodge staff for making our stay so enjoyable. Great fishing, food and far too much wine.
Regards Ernest
Glad you all liked the trip, it was great talking to you on the telephone and thank you so much for the pictures.
Looking forward in seeing you all again soon.
Regards
What scenery, very different from back home!
A Very comfortable lodge, with great staff-seriously well looked after. We had low water but still managed to catch some cracking fish to over 20lb
Tim
It was great meeting both you and your dad, glad you loved the trip, as it was a good group. Shame about the low water levels, however you did amazingly well considering, you will have to come back and see it in top condition the fishing is mind blowing.
Have to also get you and your dad on the Kings, I feel in love with the place, still lots to work out but its real thinking water which makes it even more interesting.
See you both soon I hope
The organisation, accommodation and food were excellent, but the fishing results were rather disappointing for most of the anglers due to the low water levels but that is fishing.
Hi John
Thanks fo the feedback much appreciated, shame the fishing was tough but as you said thats fishing and we can not control the water levels. It is so frustrating as the river had plenty of fish just they did not want to bite with the low water.
It was great having you on the trip as always, love the humour and conversations.
Regards Peter
We arrived at Las Buitreras after a 29 hour door-to-door journey, which went smoothly in every respect. We were met by the owner (Christer) , Sidne ( head of house) and Claudio (head guide), who advised how the week would be structured.
We were unfortunate that the river was suffering from a severe drought, which made the fishing very challenging, but not impossible. I caught 4 sea trout - best 7lbs - and 10 lovely brown trout, which I would have been over the moon about on any other occasion - best 4lbs.
The lodge was extremely comfortable and the food was very good, if somewhat overwhelming at times! The guides were all extremely courteous and most of them were very proactive in helping us with out casting, choice of fly etc, which greatly increased our fishing enjoyment.
Fishing in a flat calm one day and 90 kph wind the next was a real test of our ability and endurance!
We were very fortunate to have a party of 10 rods who all got on well together, which made for some very sociable occasions!
I would love to fish this river again with more water - I am sure it could be quite amazing.
I would like to have known in advance that we would meet severe drought conditions, as I felt that my line was not really suitable for low water conditions. I really enjoyed the week and cannot wait to go back and try again!!
The organisation by SQH was faultless, which made life easy for us all.
Paul
Thank you for your customer feedback on the trip, yes it was a very good group of people who mostly met for the first time at Heathrow airport. Good job it was a good group for as you mention we had some difficult fishing conditions as the river was at its lowest for 16 years and something that does not happen very often (Thankfully)
One good thing about the low water is you get to see all the river features and get a real understanding of it, so next time when you both return and its normal conditions we can fish it much better. Both you and your son fished very well considering the conditions so well done to you both.
PS thanks for your very kind comments about Sportquest very much appreciated. Both Tracey and myself really enjoyed meeting and spending time with you both.
Talk soon, tight lines
Second trip to Las Buitreras and conditions could not have been any different, the lowest water in about 14 years. A stark contrast to the plus twenty tea coloured water from last time. With no expectation of great fishing my objective was to catch a double figure male fish because I did not get one last time and I hoped Alison would catch a big double figure after she lost her only big (high double) fish last time.
These objectives were soon realised on the first morning an 18lb for Alison and a 17lb cock fish for me in the afternoon.
Fishing was tough but we both stuck to the task at times fishing in 100kmh gusts of wind, it is not easy and at home you would think impossible, but with a tip or two from top guide #tresamigooutfitters - Claudio it's not that bad... We were rewarded for our determination we never gave up, Alison with four fish, biggest an enormous 24lb !! average weight an incredible 16lb myself with nine biggest 17lb average 9lb.
Buitreras is a special place unspoilt and wild with just raw nature to admire made more special by the people who look after you both house staff and guides.
This place is my favourite destination and with good reason, it's perfect.
Tony Thanks so much for your feedback it was great to have you with us again as we always have fun regardless of the fishing conditions.
I was so pleased for you when you came back after the first day and said I am done, as you had achieved what you had come for even in the very tough conditions.
I will sure pass on all your kind words to the team.
Again thank you for your continued custom you both feel like you are part of the Sportquest family.
Tight lines
A return trip for me having been in January 2015.
It felt like coming home! Something comforting in surroundings that had become familiar not to mention the wonderful familiar faces of some of the staff and guides who welcomed us like old friends.
Always special thanks to Sidne with her ever ready mug of Earl Grey tea for me followed swiftly with a magic glass that was forever refilled with juicy red wine (breakfast excluded of course).
Fishing started on a high for me with me catching a beautiful coloured 18lb sea trout with Carlos - my best ever! Embarrassingly I had to sit top of the table as my fish was the best that morning session. I caught another 2 smaller fish on Carlos's beat - one of them in Old Bridge Pool in the same session that Tony caught 2 in. They obviously didn't mind us thrashing the water too much!
My crowning glory was with Eze on beat 5. We had a few memorable moments with him over the week including losing a beaut in Barranca Negra on a wild, windy afternoon. Next session with him took me back to Two Casts where last year I hooked a big fish which jumped once and snapped me off. My inexperience maybe and I'd like to think I've learned a lot since last year but returning to the pool albeit from the opposite site of the river to have the wind behind me, I was filled with hope, grit and determination! Maybe on six cast rather than two I hooked a fish which then just sat solid in the water for what seemed ages that I feared I had hooked the river bed. I was just beginning to look to Eze in despair when off it went down stream at a great rate! He was brilliant at giving me simple instructions as to when to let it run; when to reel; when to walk up the bank to save running out of line etc. Maybe 20 minutes later we had it under control and successfully landed her. I don't know who was most excited - me, Eze or Tony! All measured up - only a cm short of a meter - and weight calculated to an amazing 24lb!!! I was chuffed to bits but too modest to sit at the head of the table again!
They say the water conditions were difficult and we did have some very windy conditions, a few flakes of snow and I got a sunburnt neck another day but that is part of the appeal. So many contrasts. I loved my stay at Buitreras and feel I have learned a lot. We fished after dark and what a magical experience that is under the Southern Cross with a sky full of stars and no light pollution. Other highlights are the wildlife - Chillian Flamingoes, Rheas, foxes, geese, grebe, lapwing, owls in the tree just by the lodge, gaucho horses, armadillo and on and on....
Just go - see for yourself. Share the magic (but don't tell everyone!)
Alison my little Sea Trout Queen.
It sure was a crowning moment and well deserved, I was so so happy for you and what an amazing fish. It gives you a good idea of what an achievement that fish was when it is bigger than most of the guides have ever caught and they live there.
It was a pleasure as always to have you both on the hosted trip again as it would not feel the same without you.
Thank you for all your kind words about the trip as it is so nice to have a review from lady anglers. I will pass on all your comments to the staff who all work so hard to make sure these trips go as well as they possibly can.
Not an easy week due to very low water conditions - but then how often is fishing, particularly holiday fishing, ever easy! And it would not be a challenge if it was too easy!
Fishing highlight: on last day, landing my biggest ever sea trout and losing a much bigger one!
Non fishing highlights: spectacular scenery, light clarity & wildlife on the Rio Gallegos.
Good accommodation; excellent guides & staff at the lodge.
Good to have a single room as I went on my own.
Lovely river to fish. Although many of the pools can be fished effectively with a single handed rod, particularly if you are right handed, the wind, which is ever present and strong at times, does make it hard work!
I hope to go again and if so would definitely make sure that I get some practice beforehand at using a double hander.
Not an easy week due to very low water conditions - but then how often is fishing, particularly holiday fishing, ever easy! And it would not be a challenge if it was too easy!
Fishing highlight: on last day, landing my biggest ever sea trout and losing a much bigger one!
Non fishing highlights: spectacular scenery, light clarity & wildlife on the Rio Gallegos.
Good accommodation; excellent guides & staff at the lodge.
Good to have a single room as I went on my own.
Lovely river to fish. Although many of the pools can be fished effectively with a single handed rod, particularly if you are right handed, the wind, which is ever present and strong at times, does make it hard work!
I hope to go again and if so would definitely make sure that I get some practice beforehand at using a double hander.
I have been on two consecutive hosted trips to the Rio Gallegos so that goes a long way to describing what I think about the place.
The travel arrangements and transfers were arranged expertly by Sportquest without any hitches at all. The accommodation at the estancia is superb with very comfortable rooms and a very comfortable dining/lounge area. The house staff are wonderful, you will be made to feel at home immediately and returning guests are welcomed with a familiarity usually reserved for family. The food is excellent, immaculacy presented and always a delight. The fishing guides are all very friendly, knowledgeable and, most importantly, patient!
The Rio Gallegos is a technical river to fish, and as with fishing everywhere, luck will play some part in your success. If the river is in the right condition then you stand every chance of landing a record breaking sea trout, but when conditions are not ideal, then the fishing is challenging to say the least.
I have experienced both the ecstasy and the frustration, but that's why we fish. But, when everything comes together and that reel starts screaming, then there is no doubt that the Rio Gallegos is undoubtably the best sea trout river in the world.
David,
Thanks for taking the time to send in your customer feedback as it is very much appreciated.
I think you are spot on with your review about the river and the fishing, however as we both know when its on its on and the fishing is amazing. Its funny how two trips year on year gets to experience both ends of the spectrum.
Love to have you back again as I am sure there is some scores to settle, plus seeing the river in such low conditions means you now know much much more about the river. Therefore its time to take full advantage.
See you again soon I hope.
An excellent holiday with helpful and friendly guides. The food and accommodation were very good. Catching my biggest ever sea trout and wild brown trout were the most memorable moments. I found the wildlife very interesting with the the Rio Gallegos being like an oasis for the animals and birds.
Some photographs already sent.
Patrick
Thank you for the customer feedback and pictures very much appreciated. It sure is a wonderful place, we would love to have you back out with us again someday soon.
Tight lines
Nothing further, a very good holiday and great but challenging fishing!
Hi Chris
Thank you for the feedback scores and short comment as they all count. It was a real pleasure to have you on the trip and it was great to hear you say you both enjoyed the trip and would indeed do it again one day. Yes at times the fishing can be challenging as we did on some days have poor weather, bright blue sky and then little wind with clear water is not the best when we are trying to catch Sea Trout.
I will try and call you next week to have a chat in more detail if you are free, if not I will try and contact in a couple of months.
Also can I say a huge thank you for your custom, I do appreciate you have a choice when choosing a holiday company so are grateful that on this occasion you choose Sportquest Holidays
Thank you for such an amazing trip and holiday. A big mention to Claudio who runs a very good ship and also his help in finding our missing luggage, with out him I am sure that our luggage would still be going around the world.
Had a stunning 18.5lb Sea Trout as my first fish.
Best part - the fishing and the estancia.
Beat/guide rotation was good
Accommodation was good - if a little echoey
Phil
Thanks for your customer feedback and also taking the time to talk to me on the telephone. I must also say a huge thank you to you for both your company and business. It was a real pleasure having you on the trip.
I think this year even though at times the water level was a bit tricky we had a very good group of anglers.
The trip was great fun from the start until the very end.
I hope that we can share some trips together again in the future.
Kind Regards
Peter
When I mentioned to a non fishing friend that I was going to get on a plane for 17 hours to go fishing in Argentina, they thought I was bonkers...especially as we have a river with coarse fish just 200 yards away from the house! I had always wanted to fish for big sea trout in Tierra Del Fuego and this was my chance...
It was a fantastic experience from start to finish. We were greeted like long lost friends and made to feel right at home from the moment we arrived. The lodge has great facilities including a lovely open area for dining and socialising - where stories of big fish are told!! My room was comfortable with a good bed and a great shower.
Agustina and her team greeted us with warm smiles and large glasses of house wine as we returned from each fishing session. We enjoyed delicious meals both at lunchtime and with our informal hot suppers at 10.30pm, after the evening sessions.
The Rio Gallegos itself is a rare treasure with lovely clear water and a big variety of pools and all set in an amazing wilderness. The landscape was "endless" with views as far as the eye can see. The arid and sparse dry country was a total contrast to the river and its surroundings which were like a never ending oasis -teeming with wildlife...my binoculars had a lot of use, every time we left the lodge.
The fishing was more technical than I had imagined with tidy casting and long leaders important. There was so much water to fish in every zone and we never saw another soul which was amazing....a real point of difference from so many destinations.
The guides were excellent, offering as much help as we needed and doing their utmost to give us the best chances of success. We were confronted with tricky weather conditions at times, with bright sunshine and some unusual upstream winds. On the Tuesday Chris, a great friend, had 3 fabulous fish to 14lbs while I struggled to get a response. Claudio was determined to put this right and suggested we tried a fresh spot at 10pm! This meant more 4X4 off road driving and then a hike in the dark to reach a favourite pool. All that effort finally paid off when a fabulous 18lb fish grabbed my surface lure in the darkness. With Chris, Peter our host, Claudio, Posho(? spelling) and Ezekiel all there offering encouragement it was an unforgettable moment.
Finally a word about the fish..they were a sight to behold - fresh, wide, fat and really strong. They were challenging to catch at times, and you had to earn them, but they were so beautiful that it was hard to let them go!
So yes, Patagonia is a long way to go to catch fish - but a week at Las Buiteras on the Rio Gallegos is something that I'll remember with a big smile on my face. I'd go back in a heartbeat!!
Thank you to all of the team at Sportquest and the lodge itself for delivering such a treasured memory.
John
Wow.... Thank you so so much for such a nice detailed customer review. It is comments and feedback like this that helps us remember why we enjoy doing this job so much.
I must say it was also a huge please in meeting you and spending time with you on the week. I also have fond memories of that evening session when you landed your best ever Sea Trout, I can still see the smile on your face and remember you recounting the events on our return to the lodge with one of those large glasses of wine.
It would be a real pleasure to have both you and Chris back on day. As I mentioned going back for a second visit you normally catch more fish as you are more prepared and have a better understanding of what is required to be successful. Having said that, you ended up being top rod for the week on your very first trip.
Talk again soon
Regards Peter
Full Marks all round.
I loved the fishing and what a place.
The guides and staff took very good care of us all.
Peter the host was great company and made sure everyone on the trip was well taken care of, he does it all with a smile and makes it all look easy, which in reality we all know its not the easiest job in the world.
Lamby
Thank you for the full marks and your kind words.
It was great having you on the group and thats not just from me I am sure that will be from everyone. You certainly were the group entertainment and your stories always had the group in full spirits.
A huge thank you from me and I certainly hope to have you back Sea Trout fishing with me again out there. A trip will never quite seem the same again.
Kind Regards Peter
Yet another excellent couple of weeks of a hosted trip.
I just can not wait till the next one
Regards Tim
Tim
Thanks for the feedback and scores as it is very much appreciated.
As normal it was a pleasure on having both you and your dad along for the journey.
Also congratulations on the fish you landed, I bet you are still smiling even today.
So until next year keep in touch.
Regards Peter
Las Buitreras - Rio Gallegos - Patagonia.
We encountered low water on our last two trips to LB - I think there could be greater emphasis on ensuring that
clients cover this eventuality in the rods etc which they bring.
Airport transfers with Gaby are a no brainer and should be included in the package.
Clients should be encouraged to travel with bags that can contain rods and clothing - rod cases are a nightmare.
All staff at LB are exceptional, which greatly enhances the 'total' experience.
Slippers/slip on shoes make life much easier when taking off waders to enter the lodge.
We were very fortunate to enjoy a lot of fun with a very gregarious party.
Paul
Thank you for your review and your comments. As you know we are all learning more and more about the destination especially when there is low water. Lighter rods, lines and even the new vision clear floating line with clear poly tips have made an amazing difference.
We all love Gabby she is so worth every penny as it takes out all the hassle of any transfers.
Glad that you will both be joining me again next year as it was such a good team of people, I am sure next year will be just as enjoyable for everyone but this time hopefully with a little bit more water and normal weather conditions.
Thank you for your continued custom as it is always very much appreciated.
Regards Peter
Peter
Thanks for the call earlier in the week
I just want to pass on my personal thanks to yourself and Tracy for your professionalism and friendship on our recent trip.
This was my first experience of organized adventure and my expectations were surpassed in every respect. Both on and off the river, I gained memories which will live with me forever.
I can’t wait until the next trip !
Please pass on my thanks to the guys and girls in the office who have helped to gain a customer for many years to come.
Best wishes and speak soon.
Carl
Carl
Thank you for your kind words I have passed them on to the staff in the office as they do work hard so its always nice to pass on compliments to them as they do desire it.
It was a pleasure to both meet you and have you on the trip and as you are returning for the Sea Trout next year we will see each other again soon. The group of customers for next year is already looking amazing it looks like it is going to be a laugh a minute…
Again thanks for your custom
WHAT A TRIP ! It was my first time at Las B. I have always wanted to fish for sea trout in Argentina ,but did not know prior to going if it would live up to the years of hopes & expectations built up from viewing, reading & hearing about sea trout fishing in Patagonia.
Thanks to Peter & Tracey our hosts it far exceeded my dreams, the whole team, including the other guests were all fantastic.
The guiding team were top notch, patient, knowledgeable & helpful I was lent lines flies etc. I could not fault them & they were nice guys, to boot .
The lodge staff were equally good attentive & nothing was too much trouble. The food was very very good but I do have one complaint ! there was so much food & drink & it was so delicious that i will have to slim for months to get in my clothes.
The thing that really takes my breath away is that conditions, I was told by everyone ,were not good ,as can often happen in any fishing scenario yet I beat my previous personal best sea trout with four fish caught on this trip ! the best of which beat my previous PB by 300% I cannot wait to go back & find better water !
Please convey my thanks to everyone.
Peter thank you so much for your customer feedback and yes what a week it was and it seems that everyone had a good time.
I am already looking forward in getting you back out there and this time lets get you over the magical 20lb fish.
Thank you for such a great trip it was a pleasure in seeing everyone again.
Hi Pat it was great catching up with you again both on the trip and after we returned. I will miss your sense of humour next season.
This was my second visit to Las Buitreras. As before (2016), we experienced low water conditions. As a result the total for sea trout was well down on the average. The fishing was both challenging & interesting. Personally I would not have it any other way. I caught more sea trout than last time and as a bonus had my best ever!
This success was largely down to the excellent guides, but also due to using double handed rods; both switch & spey. I am a recent convert, having fished the single handed rod for nearly 40 years. So it is safe to say that I had good & bad days with the double hander! However the guides were extremely patient and passed on tips for me to work on.
Although you can get away with just using the single hander (particularly if you are right handed and the wind is not too strong), you will get more out of the fishing in all conditions, if you are able to use the "double" as well.
The Rio Gallegos is a lovely river to fish with the floating line; generally shallow with a good variety of pools, runs and glides. The scenery is spectacular and there is always some wildlife to look at. Great sunsets and, with no light pollution, amazing night skies.
The accommodation at the lodge was comfortable and we were well served by the staff.
With regard to the travel through Buenos Aires, transferring between airports and to/from the hotel on the return journey, this proved to be hassle free, thanks to the excellent service provided by Gabby.
To summarise, it was a great trip and I hope to be able to go again
An extremely good trip - do not tell anyone.
Hi Chris it was certainly another good group of people and I am already looking forward to next year.
As before thanks again for both your custom and company, I look forward next year to some more wine lessons
Regards Peter
We were lucky to have a gathering of delightful rods , most of whom had fished together in a past.
The "craic" was non stop as was the Malbec.
If you are fishing for Golden Dorado, take stripping glove.
Paul
Thanks for the feedback and I hope you are enjoying your break now down under.
Yes it was a great group and such a craic and we are all looking forward to it again next year.
Thanks again for you continued support and custom, it is much appreciated.
A great trip as always and such a nice group of people. Everything at the lodge and fishing was just perfect.
The only comment I can ever make is the bedrooms could do with a bit of sound proofing as it can be difficult to get to sleep if everyone else is still partying.
Thanks for a great trip see you next year.
Paul
Yes I agree it was a cracking year and a cracking group. Congrats on the big fish it was so nice to see all the pictures. I have noted your comments about the sound in the rooms. Not sure what we can do about that apart from trying to get the other guests to keep the noise down at lunchtimes and evenings.
Glad you are both joining us again next year, let's hope the fish gods are again on our side.
Regards Peter
Destination was perfect.
Just one point is it possible to get more regular updates on the fishing reports before you trip each year?
Neil
It was great catching up with you on the telephone. Again thank you for joining us in Argentina and congratulations on doing so well being joint top rod. We are all ready looking forward in having you with us again next year.
In relation to the reports I am afraid sometimes the lodge just gets very busy so the reports can sometimes fall a little behind. I will pass on these comments and see if we can make sure next year they flow a little more regularly.
Tight lines Peter
Fantastic Holiday made the more better by being with great bunch of people.
Can not wait to return
Mark 7 Noelle
Thank you for your feedback and also your comments. Both Tracey and myself had a wonderful time with you all with us in Argentina. Whats more it looks like we are all ready to do it again next season. Bring on the Sea trout, huge steaks and lots of Argentinian wine.
What else could you want from a holiday..... Oh yes great company
See you both again soon.
As always the pre-trip information was spot on. Everything else was as usual great. The lodge guides & lodge staff are unsurpassed the lodge itself, food & facilities are of a standard that would shame some 4 & 5-star hotels. A great bunch of guys to fish with a beautiful river if again somewhat out of sorts with low water & high winds at the start of week & rising water & weed making fishing impossible for the last three sessions. Every one of us caught fish & I had fish into double figures.
Thanks again to our hosts Peter & Tracy
Peter Thanks for your feedback and as always it is a pleasure to have you on the trip each year. The group is something special which makes these hosted weeks even better year after year. It will also be great to have Tom your son with us next year and what a father & son trip that will be. Again thanks for all your customer Kind Regards Peter
Hi Peter, As discussed whilst we were at the lodge, it's a great holiday at a fantastic destination. The fishing is superb along with the excellent guides and host. There is very little that you can improve on when everything is at such a high standard. We did have the issue of the broken rods for both Chris and myself on the first day when the rod racks come off the car. Luckily the lodge had loan equipment so both Chris and myself could carry on fishing for the rest of the week. Having said the above it still did not distract or change my view that it was a wonderful holiday.
Mark
Thanks for the feedback and taking the time to talk to me on the phone. Glad both you and Noel had another great adventure as the team/group is a great bunch of people and a pleasure to host each season. I look forward to seeing you both again next year. In relation to the rods so sorry for this and it is something we have looked at and will be trying to make improvements to reduce the risk of this happening again in the future. I hope the offer from the lodge goes someway to help with the compensation. Again Tanks for your continued support and custom it is always very much appreciated. Tight Lines Peter
My third time. As previous trips - accommodation, meals, staff & guides were top draw. Wi-Fi much improved.
Fishing not easy - very low water, combined with two days of near gale force winds. Then the last day was lost due to rising and weed infested water! But happy with the fish caught, including my second biggest ever sea trout, taken on a single-handed rod.
Tip: In my experience opportunities to fish with a single-handed rod can be limited, mainly due to the wind. Although my best fish of the trip came to the single-hander, I only used it a few times during the five days of fishing. Therefore in my view, to get the best out of the holiday, it is highly desirable to have some experience of using double-handed rods. You do not, however, have to be an expert - all the guides are extremely helpful and will help with your casting.
Andy, it was great having you again at the lodge, yes difficult water conditions this year on our week, but as we all say that is fishing. However, with experienced anglers and great guiding the team still landed 72 fish for the week which is a great result. As per telephone call, it will be great to have you back in a couple of years time. Tight lines and talk soon Regards Peter
This was my seventh trip with Sportquest although my first to Las Buitreras, and as always, the travel and accommodation organisation were the first-rates. The transfers with Gaby ensure the smooth running of the Buenos Aires legs of the trip, and this should probably be costed into the holiday rather than added afterwards. Estancia Las Buitreras was excellent, with great food, lodge staff, guides and a whole operation that runs seamlessly and is geared to the needs of fishing. It was everything I had been led to expect from previous visitors. Great to finally meet Peter after many chats on the phone over the last few years! The fishing was challenging with low water at the start of the week and then losing the final day due to high water and massive amounts of weeds coming down the river. The guides worked tirelessly to make sure we made the best of the water and fished the beats that were best suited to the conditions, especially on the two very windy days we had. I was pleased to catch eight fish, including three ‘doubles’ .. and have already booked to return for two weeks next year.
David, yes it was great to finally meet after all these years and I am so happy that you enjoyed the trip. Conditions were tough however everyone caught plenty of fish which is what it is all about. It will be great to have you with me next year for two whole weeks as I am sure we will find time to have some fun and some fishing together. Again thank you for all your help and custom over these years as it is always very much appreciated. Tight lines until the next time. Regards Peter
The lodge, the house staff, the guides and the food could hardly be bettered. We were unlucky with the weather which greatly impacted the fishing but that was just the luck of the draw. We had a wonderful party of rods who have fished together for many years which makes the whole experience one that should be repeated annually!!
Hi Paul, thanks for your customer feedback and also for taking the time to talk to me on the telephone. It was another great week with a great bunch of people who have over the years become more like friends. It was a shame the rise of water put the river out for the last days fishing but as you said that is fishing. Already looking forward to next year. A huge thank you for your repeat custom as it is very much appreciated. Regards Peter
A wonderful week spent at Las Buitreras (with sea trout from 6lb to 17lb, averaging just under 9lb). Great company, great food, great fishing (apart from the Patagonian wind) and great attention to detail. Nothing was too much trouble, for the entire staff, and I can easily sum up the lodge in one word.... Faultless! Already booked for next year with the added bonus of flying Business Class.
Niall, thanks for your important feedback and also taking the time to talk to me. Great results by everyone on the trip and congratulations on all your fish. It is great to have you back again next year and oh yes you will notice the difference in business class. Tight Lines Peter
I have just returned from a fantastic holiday fishing the Rio Gallegos from Las Buitreras Lodge.
The organisation and logistics by Sportquest were faultless and seamless. My angling companions, both experienced and novice, were great company and I enjoyed every minute of it.
The lodge is welcoming and comfortable, the food is excellent and the staff are truly outstanding in their care and attention to detail. Our host, Peter, went above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome and help those that needed it.
Thank you to Peter for looking after me like a son and for the many many laughs. The Buitreras guides are exceptional and I learned an awful lot from them.
I caught 19 sea-run Brown Trout up to 16lb and as many river Brownies. It does not get better than that!
Now I am back home and starting my diet tomorrow!
Really great holiday Peter, and I thought the staff at LB from guides to hostesses were top class.
Hi,
I’ve had one of the best fishing holidays, not for the numbers l caught, but for the overall experience of the fishing/lodge/guides and the help l had from the Sportquest office
A excellent trip from start to finish. Great fishing, great food and company all round.
Landing my first sea trout was a particular highlight!
Catching up with other guests at the end of each day, hearing their stories, their highs (and lows) always made for good entertainment.
A very special place!
A fantastic trip with friends to an amazing part of the world. From the Agents in Buenos Aires to the staff in the lodge and the Guides on the river, I can not thank you enough for your attentiveness, friendliness and care. From being greeted by name each morning, to being offered a drink as soon as we returned to the boot room. Breakfasts, Lunches and Dinners all superb and just what was needed, delivered professionally and with great attention to detail. Being picked up by the Guides and driven to the beat with humour and fun, increasing the excitement, hope and expectation! Being guided and instructed to the hot spots, advice while playing the fish and its netting all second to none! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you !!!!
Kindest Regards
Andrew Rankin
Thank you for the feedback and the excellent pictures and videos, I know Chris in our marketing department was very grateful. Glad you enjoyed a fantastic holiday too.
Regards Peter.
The pre trip information and support we received from the Sportquest team was excellent. This was particularly relevant as our flights were cancelled at very short notice due to industrial action. The team managed to reroute us through other airports on other airlines. First class service!
On arrival in Patagonia, the accommodation at Las Butteras was very comfortable and the staff were excellent. Fishing for Patagonian sea trout on Rio Gallegos is an experience of a lifetime!
Glad you had a brilliant trip Stephen and I totally agree with your comments - it most certainly is the experience of a lifetime!
Regards Peter
