Fly Fishing on the Carretera Austral

October 17, 2022

Diego Guerrero

We love seeing articles that celebrate the absolute magic of the Carretera Austral (Ruta 7). It’s the ultimate adventure road, famous for its remote glaciers, turquoise lakes, and wild landscapes—the very terrain that surrounds our lodge.

The Carretera Austral’s Fly Fishing Capital

For all the riders, travelers, and adventurers pounding the gravel on this epic route—you’re riding through the world’s most untouched natural playground, and we are your basecamp. That’s why we were thrilled to be featured by ADV Pulse in their recent article: “9 Extraordinary Places To Explore On Patagonia’s Carretera Austral.”

The article emphasizes that riding the Carretera Austral shouldn’t be a race; it should be an experience. Our spot on the map, the Coyhaique area, is highlighted as an unmissable destination for exactly this reason.

Here are the key takeaways from the article and how we fit into your adventure:

1. Coyhaique: The Hub of Northern Patagonia

The article names Coyhaique as the main hub for Northern Patagonia, calling it the place to “restock and rejuvenate for those of you longing for modern conveniences!”

  • Our Angle: Located near Coyhaique, Vista Patagonia Lodge offers the ultimate place to rest and recharge. But we offer more than just comfort; we offer the chance to dive into the region’s main attraction once you park the bike.

2. World-Class Fly Fishing: Our Specialty

This is where we shine. ADV Pulse points out that while the Carretera Austral is about epic riding, it’s also the capital of Patagonian fly fishing:1

“Trout fishing on the Paloma & Baker Rivers has been featured in the New York Times and is considered on par, if not better, than Montana! Even if wearing hip-waders isn’t your go-to for a good time, the opportunity to spend the day on a pristine, remote river indulging in some world-class fly fishing is worth trying at least once, and no better place than h2ere.”

  • Our Angle: The article specifically names Vista Patagonia Lodge as an option for those looking for an “all-inclusive luxury lodge” experience. Whether you’ve spent weeks in the saddle or just arrived at the airport, our goal is to show you that the true heart of Patagonia isn’t just along the road—it’s in the water.

3. The Variety of Adventure

The article celebrates the diversity of the Aysén region, from the towering Ventisquero Colgante (Hanging Glacier) at Queulat National Park to the deep gravel of Cerro Castillo.

  • Our Angle: Just as the landscape offers massive lakes, fast rivers, and intimate creeks (as our guest Ben from Huge Fly Fisherman recently showcased!), your time at the lodge offers unparalleled variety, too. You can fish a different, pristine location every day with our guides, all within easy reach of the lodge.

Stop Riding, Start Fishing

We know you came here for the adventure. But we invite you to take a break from the helmet and the high winds. Trade your riding boots for waders, your motorbike for a drift boat, and your engine noise for the sound of a dry fly hitting the water.

Your ultimate Carretera Austral adventure isn’t complete until you experience the world-class trout fishing that this rugged region is famous for.

We are ready to welcome you with world-class hospitality, gourmet meals, and a full team of professional guides ready to take you from the famous Ruta 7 gravel to the pristine waters of Patagonia.

Are you riding the Carretera Austral this season? Plan a few days with us. Find out why the best part of the Aysén region is waiting right here.

Diego Guerrero

Diego Guerrero

A lifelong angler and certified guide since 2000, Diego has spent over three decades traveling the depths of Patagonia in search of the perfect cast. When he’s not on the oars, he’s likely at the local skatepark where his 30 years on a board have earned him the nickname “Unc” from the neighborhood kids. Passionate about the lodge he built from the ground up, Diego combines a love for eclectic music and fine Chilean wine with a commitment to showing guests the soulful, authentic rhythm of his homeland alongside his wife, Maca, and their two dogs.

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