Kau Tapen Lodge is as famous as the Rio Grande river on which it sits, considering it was also the first Sea Trout lodge on this river initially set up back in 1984. Kau Tapen translates to ‘House of Fishing’ in the local language, and over the years, it certainly has lived up to its name. So many customers have visited this stunning lodge, fished the river and relaxed, chatting about the monsters they both caught and the ones that got away, all over a few nice glasses of Malbec Wine. What makes Kau Tapen so unique as a fishing lodge? Apart from it has over 32 years of experience and has set a level of excellence that other lodges are measured. It offers the most pools per angler per day, only two anglers and their guide per beat and four to eight pools per beat, different beats every morning and evening. That’s a lot of water to cover each day! The lodge has managed to put 5 world records for Sea Trout, fish in the 27lb to 35lb mark are caught each season, and the lodge can boast that 20lb Sea Trout is standard every week of the season.
Kau Tapen Lodge only typically hosts 10 anglers per week but occasionally 12, and it is a real testament to just how good the operation is when we have an 80% return rate. If you are looking for first-class Sea Trout fishing on the famous Rio Grande River and wish for serious opportunities to catch 20lb Sea Trout, you will fall in love with this destination.
Kau Tapen lodge can is found nestled in the Rio Grande Valley in Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. This great river flows from west to east, from the Andes to the Atlantic Ocean, through approximately 60 miles of Argentine territory. Tierra del Fuego’s rugged landscape is like something more found in Scotland’s lowlands, with them being very stark but remaining stunning on the eye. The population in this area is very sparse. Still, you will come across many sheep farming estancias, large herds of Llama like Guanacos, and a large population of Condors will soar above while you peacefully go about your business. It is easy to get to Kau Tapen it’s only a short 3-hour flight from Buenos Aries followed by a 50 min car transfer where our hosts will be awaiting your arrival with some very welcoming cocktails.
There’s no more inviting destination on earth for chasing large Sea Run Brown Trout than on the Rio Grande. The success of the fishery is a modern-day fisherman’s Cinderella story. In just a decade, through access control and catch and release regulations, average catch rates have risen from less than a fish a day in the early ’80s to multiple fish per day, per person, today.
The massive Rio Grande meanders across the landscape, creating undercut banks where large Sea trout just love to lie to keep out of the sunlight. Generally, the Rio Grande’s Sea Trout seem to lie near cut banks during the middle of the day, though in low water, they will also lie in the faster necks of pools. They typically move into these areas during early morning, evening, and nighttime hours. A good rule is, “Tails in the morning and heads at night.” This often means the best fishing is found in the mornings and evenings; therefore, expect your days to begin early and end at the last light.
While fly fishing the Rio Grande for Sea Trout, you can, and it is best to fish with a wide range of techniques. Sea Trout are moody creatures, so a large Sea trout might demand that a fly be fed to it on the bottom one hour but rise to a skating fly the next. One thing to remember is water levels do affect fishing, and they tend to drop week by week as the season progresses slowly. As you fish, the different beats and pools vary your presentations in each pool fished until you find the right formula of fly, line, drift or swing, and retrieve. Also, heed your guide’s advice, whose primary aim is to recommend methods that will help you hook and bring more fish to the net.
Remember, Sea Trout in the Rio Grande are big, where the average-sized brown is around 12lb to 20lb. This is a place where catching a trophy-sized Sea Trout could happen any day of the week. Watch some of our YouTube Videos about Kau Tapen
Unlike many stories you may have been told about fly fishing in Patagonia, the fishing is easily manageable. At Kau Tapen, they have access to over 13 miles of the middle section of the river, which provides accessible wading opportunities on both banks. The wind when Sea Trout fishing is your friend; it disturbs the water and makes the Sea Trout more settled and willing to take your fly. Remember, the waves’ noise on the water helps to disguise heavy wading or a bad cast, and with access to both banks, we can position you with the wind on your back. Access to rivers is everything. With Kau Tapens well-maintained vehicles, you will get to spend more time fishing with only, on average, a 15-minute drive to some of the furthest away beats.
Each day you can expect to fish around 9 hours split into two sessions; there is the morning session taking you up to midday, then there will the late afternoon session fishing into the dark. The fishing is split like this to avoid the midday sun and take advantage of the most productive feeding times. In the morning session, after a good hearty breakfast, you will depart around 9 am fishing up to midday, where you will then return to the lodge for lunch, drinks and an afternoon siesta. Late in the afternoon, you will be taken back out, and then you will fish into the dark hours, taking full advantage of the more productive feeding spells.
The Rio Grande season starts in late December as the Sea Trout begin to enter the river in small numbers. However, for the travelling angler, fishing starts typically at the beginning of January. 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.
All the guides at Kau Tapen Lodge are first-class professional guides from Argentina and other international locations. Each guide has its unique approach to fishing and guiding on a rotational basis. You will get to benefit from each guides knowledge. They will be equipped with nets and will assist guests with weighing and releasing their catches. All the guides at Kau Tapen Lodge are available for casting instructions for both single and double-handed casting.
The stunning, world-renowned Kau Tapen lodge built in 1984, Kau Tapen Lodge was designed to offer rods maximum comfort during their fishing trips and easy access to the best pools on the world-famous Rio Grande. It accommodates ten guests (and occasionally 12) in en-suite single rooms to ensure privacy and comfort. The lodge has ten en-suite single rooms; some offer a king bed, while some have one queen, and others furnished with two doubles. A large living room opens up to peaceful vistas of the Menendez and Rio Grande valleys and includes a roaring fire and a well-stocked bar. The lodge also boasts a tackle shop with an excellent selection of Sage rods, quality fly reels, flies, lines, Patagonia clothing, and other fishing essentials. Also, guests have full use of the lodge’s fly-tying table and equipment. Additional Kau Tapen highlights include two wading/fly gear rooms, a full spa with a jacuzzi, a sauna and a Finnish steam bath.
At Kau Tapen lodge, the kitchens come to life by using fresh and regionally representative meats and produce. By combining these elements, we create delicious flavours and varied textures that harbour hidden stories and package traditions on each plate. A top-notch team of experienced national and international chefs, trained in both classic and avant-garde culinary techniques, execute our food. With an artisan’s touch, chefs prepare every dish from scratch to be served at a minute’s notice. At Kau Tapen lodge, you’ll enjoy fresh pasta and fire-roasted meats like our famous Patagonian lamb, roasted gaucho-style over charcoal embers, alongside ocean-fresh flavours such as King crab. And don’t forget to save room for dessert. From homemade ice creams to classic sweets and pastries, we have you covered. Finally, we feel that the food we serve and the wines we pour should mirror the sporting opportunities we offer. And wines from Bodega Catena Zapata blend perfectly. These are renowned wines that compete on the world stage. They hold a special place in the local culture, and they are proud to serve them to you.
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 Buenos Aires airport to Jorge Newbery airport
Once you have arrived and collected your bags make your way out of the terminal building and arrange a taxi to take you to Jorge Newbery airport for your small flight to Ushuaia. (Taxi not included)
Depart Jorge Newbery
Arrive Ushuaia
Once you arrive in Ushuaia you will be transferred to the overnight hotel. Once there you’ll be free to enjoy the local area, grab some food and generally rest before your week of fishing.
Overnight Accommodation: Lennox Hotel in a single room on a bed and breakfast basis
Transfer from Ushuaia to Kau Tapen Lodge
After breakfast, you’ll be picked up at approximately 9.00am by a representative from Kau Tapen. They will then transfer you to the lodge, where you will be welcomed with cocktails and the entire Kau Tapen team. (Transfer approx. 3 hours)
Overnight accommodation: Kau Tapen Lodge in a single room on a full board basis
Your first two days of fishing will allow you to experience wetting a fly on the world-renowned Rio Grande. The lodge controls over 13 miles of fishing on both banks of this famous waterway, and with only six angers per week, it offers a vast array of opportunities.
Each day, you can expect to fish for around nine hours, split into two sessions; the morning session takes you up to midday, and then there will be the late afternoon session fishing into the dark. The fishery is split like this to avoid the midday sun and take advantage of the most productive feeding times.
Overnight accommodation: Kau Tapen Lodge in a single room on a full board basis
On fishing days three and four, you, your buddy, and your guide will explore more of the beautiful Rio Grande. All the fishing is based on two anglers and one guide per beat, and with four to eight pools per beat, there’s plenty of water.
Kau Tapens veteran guides will rotate with you through all beats throughout your week while offering expert advice to help you maximise your holiday.
Overnight accommodation: Kau Tapen Lodge in a single room on a full board basis
Your last two fishing days can be a great time to try and target one of the bigger fish the river is famous for. Studies show that the Sea Run Browns in the Rio Grande are about 17% heavier than other sea trout of the same length, and with low predation, biologically rich salt water, and a strict catch and release policy, the fish have thrived.
The lodge has set five world records for Sea Trout and fish in the 27lb to 35lb bracket get caught each season. The lodge can also boast that a 20lb Sea Trout is the standard every week.
Transfer from Kau Tapen Lodge to Rio Grande Airport
At around 8.00 am will be transferred to Rio Grande airport for your journey home.
The journey time to Rio Grande airport is around 30 minutes.
Depart Rio Grande
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: Loi Suites in a single 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 November to March.
Season: November to April
Peak: January to March
Weight: 5lb to 35lb
Average Weight: 8.5lb
Season: November to April
Peak: January to March
Weight: 1lb to 6lb
Average Weight: 2.5lb
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09/01/2025 | 19/01/2025 | 12 | £15,727 | Sold Out |
| 16/01/2025 | 26/01/2025 | 12 | £15,727 | Sold Out |
| 23/01/2025 | 02/02/2025 | 12 | £15,727 | Enquire Now |
| 30/01/2025 | 09/02/2025 | 12 | £15,727 | Enquire Now |
| 06/02/2025 | 16/02/2025 | 12 | £15,727 | Sold Out |
| 13/02/2025 | 23/02/2025 | 12 | £15,727 | Sold Out |
| 20/02/2025 | 01/03/2025 | 12 | £15,727 | Sold Out |
| 27/02/2025 | 08/03/2025 | 12 | £15,727 | Sold Out |
| 05/03/2025 | 15/03/2025 | 12 | £15,727 | Sold Out |
| 12/03/2025 | 22/03/2025 | 12 | £14,021 | Sold Out |
| 19/03/2025 | 29/03/2025 | 12 | £14,021 | Sold Out |
| 26/03/2025 | 05/04/2025 | 12 | £14,021 | Sold Out |
| 02/04/2025 | 12/04/2025 | 12 | £14,022 | Enquire Now |
Prices are based on two adults sharing transfers, fishing and accommodation (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.
All aspects of my Kau Tapen experience were excellent. Just spending time by a river like Rio Grande with true fly fishing enthusiasts like the guides I had the pleasure to meet.... and if you then add the monster trout and the atmosphere of the "House of fishing" I could not get closer to my fly fishing heaven.
Thank you so so much for travelling with us and taking the time to complete your customer feedback. Great comments that we will pass on to everyone.
Regards Mel
I was part of a group of 6 anglers from the UK and our visit to Kau Tapen was one to be remember for a very long time. Our guides and the lodge staff took such good care of everyone.
First class lodge, fist class operation
Should be on every anglers bucket list.
Thank you for taking the time to complete our destination review. So good to hear that you and your group had such an amazing time.
Tight Lines
A huge thank you to all the staff and guides, amazing food and fishing.
Already saving the pennies
Todd, we will pass on all our kind comments
An exeptional holiday and destination.
One has travelled to many places, but some stand out above the rest. Kay Tapen will go down in our minds as one such destination.
A big thank you from both me and our team.
Wow thank you for taking the time to complete our destination review, so glad you feel so highly about the destination. Our customers seem to love every trip.
First class service and first class holidays. I have given Sportquest and the whole holiday top marks in EVERY level.
Wow Bayaraa what can we say 100% in ever level, thanks for that and yes we will sort out your place for next season. Kind Regards Mel
What a place and what a river. We would urge anyone who likes their fly fishing to visit Kau Tapen.
Our trip was first class and one that should be repeated each day.
Next time we would take a bit more time to relax in BA on the way out as the flights are long.
Tarquin, we would agree with you plus BA is a nice city to spend some time with some great restaurants. However we also realise for some people time is an issue and they wish to fly out to the destination as quick as possible. Thats one advantage that we offer as we do tailor all itineraries to suit each customers requirements.
For us as we have now visited a few time Kau Tapen is our second home. Everyone makes us feel so welcome its hard not to feel like we all belong there.
The Rio Grande is an amazing river to fish, it can have some moody days and sometimes the fish can be hard. It is the challenge of the fishing that makes it so interesting.
Lance, thank you for taking the time to complete our destination review. I agree the river is an amazing place to fish.
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