Rio Manso Lodge

Rio Manso Watershed Fishing

Rio Manso Lodge offers the best fly fishing in Patagonia Argentina. Fish a wide variety of waters from small streams and large rivers to intimate spring creeks and deep productive lakes where monster browns, hefty rainbows, and trophy brook trout swim.

The Water

Rio Manso River:

Unique in the region—lies on western side of continental divide and drains into Pacific Ocean. Different geology and ecosystem require different approaches. System of interconnected lakes drain into river, with Manso running through some lakes. Water types range from smooth deep currents to tumbling white water and everything in between.

Lakes of Rio Manso:

A blend of naturally interconnected river and half dozen lakes. Glacial runoff from Monte Tronador glaciers flows through series of lakes into Manso River. This natural filtration creates crystal-clear water with visibility up to 40 feet at certain times.

Heavily forested shorelines guarantee ideal structure for exciting sight casting with dry flies. Carolina skiffs provide easy, comfortable access. A day on any lake can produce once-in-a-lifetime catch for persistent anglers.

Spring Creeks:

Intimate technical fishing requiring precision and stealth.

Small Streams:

Classic Patagonian freestone fishing in pristine surroundings.

The Fishing

Variety is the hallmark of Rio Manso. Fish different water types throughout the week based on conditions and angler preferences. Sight casting in ultra-clear lakes, dry fly fishing on rivers, nymphing deep runs, streamer fishing for trophy fish.

Target Species

Brown Trout (Salmo trutta)

Monster browns throughout the system.

● Size: Trophy fish in lakes and rivers
● Season: November–April
● Techniques: Dry flies, nymphs, streamers, sight casting in lakes
● Notes: Crystal-clear water allows stalking large fish

Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

Hefty rainbows in all waters.

● Size: Strong, healthy populations
● Season: November–April
● Techniques: Dry flies, nymphs, streamers
● Notes: Aggressive fighters in diverse habitats

Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis)

Trophy brook trout in pristine waters.

● Size: Trophy fish present
● Season: November–April
● Techniques: Dry flies, small nymphs
● Notes: Beautiful fish in spectacular settings

Rio Manso Lodge

Rebuilt in 2004 and uniquely designed, Rio Manso Lodge sits in Nahuel Huapi National Park in the midst of virgin waters and lush forests.

Guest Rooms

Nine guest rooms, each facing northwest with spectacular views:

● Views: Lago Hess and Andes Mountains from every room
● Monte Tronador: Majestic mountain on Chile border just 15 miles away—looks close enough to touch on clear days
● Beds: King-size or two full-size beds
● Bathrooms: Private bath in each room
● Jacuzzi: Some rooms equipped with Jacuzzi
● Comfort: Elegantly appointed yet comfortable

Lodge Amenities

● Wader Room: Full room for tackle and waders
● Fly Tying Area: Dedicated space for tying flies
● Bar: Small but well-equipped
● Sitting Area: Spacious area in front of river stone fireplace
● Fireplace: Many nights cool enough to enjoy roaring fire
● Cocktails: Served with hors d'oeuvres each evening by fireplace
● Sauna: Available to drive out chill and loosen stiff casting muscles
● Laundry: Included
● Internet: WiFi available

Dining

Meals served in main dining room—fitting conclusion to day on water or exploring Patagonia.

Cuisine: Pasta, fish, chicken, beef
Style: Wide variety reflecting cultural diversity and worldly culinary influences
Wine: All meals served with complimentary Argentine wines
Special Diets: Happy to develop special menus for dietary needs

Non-Fishing Activities

Rio Manso Lodge offers host of activities beyond fishing:

● Hiking in Nahuel Huapi National Park
● Rafting
● Horseback riding
● Exploring virgin forests
● Wildlife viewing
● Guided non-fishing activities included

Travel to Rio Manso Lodge

International Gateway

Buenos Aires (EZE) – Ezeiza International Airport

Domestic Connection

San Carlos de Bariloche (BRC) – Nearest airport to Rio Manso Lodge

Typical Routing:

● International flight to Buenos Aires
● Domestic flight Buenos Aires to Bariloche
● Ground transfer Bariloche to Rio Manso Lodge (included)

Buenos Aires Airport Transfer

International flights arrive at Ezeiza (EZE). Most domestic flights depart from Aeroparque Jorge Newbery. However, check if you can catch flight from Ezeiza to Bariloche—saves transfer time.

Transfer Between Buenos Aires Airports:

● Allow at least 5 hours between arrival at Ezeiza and departure from Aeroparque
● Transfer time about 1 hour, but clearing customs, getting bags, exiting airport, and checking in for Bariloche flight often takes several hours
● Use reputable transfer service—Manuel Tienda Leon recommended (booths in airport after baggage claim and customs)
● Private car costs about $65-70 for one-hour ride
● Can reserve car or bus ride right at counter—no need to reserve in advance

Buenos Aires Stopover

If you have time, we recommend a couple days in beautiful Buenos Aires before heading to Patagonia.

Lodge Transfer

Airport transfers to and from Bariloche area included in package.

Weekly Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival

● Arrive San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC)
● Meet lodge representative
● Ground transfer to Rio Manso Lodge (included)
● Settle into room with Lago Hess and Andes Mountain views
● Welcome reception
● Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres by river stone fireplace
● Dinner with complimentary Argentine wine
● Trip briefing with guides

Days 2-7 – Fishing Days

● Breakfast in main dining room
● Depart with guide (1 guide per 2 anglers)
● Full day fishing Rio Manso watershed
● Options: Rio Manso River, crystal-clear lakes, spring creeks, small streams
● Techniques vary: sight casting in lakes, dry flies, nymphs, streamers
● Lunch on the water
● Continue fishing optimal locations
● Return to lodge
● Sauna available to loosen stiff casting muscles
● Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres by fireplace
● Dinner featuring pasta, fish, chicken, or beef with Argentine wine
● Evening at leisure (fly tying area, bar, relax by fire)

Optional Activities:

● Hiking in Nahuel Huapi National Park
● Rafting
● Horseback riding
● Exploring virgin forests
● Wildlife viewing
● Guided non-fishing activities

Day 8 – Departure

● Breakfast in dining room
● Ground transfer to Bariloche Airport (included)
● Depart for Buenos Aires and international connections

Flexible Options

Nightly rates available for custom trip lengths. Contact Front Range Anglers for flexible itineraries.

Package Rates

Weekly Package (7 Nights / 6 Days):

● Fishing Guests: $5,950 per person
● Non-Fishing Guests: $3,850 per person

Nightly Rates:

● Fishing Guests: $850 per night
● Non-Fishing Guests: $550 per night
● Single Supplement: $300 per night

Contact Front Range Anglers for current availability.

What's Included:

● Seven (7) nights lodging at Rio Manso Lodge
● Six (6) full days of guided fishing (1 guide per 2 anglers)
● All meals and snacks
● Beverages including wine and alcohol
● Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres each evening
● Complimentary Argentine wines with all meals
● Airport transfers to and from Bariloche area
● Fishing license
● Laundry service
● Internet/WiFi
● Access to sauna
● Guided non-fishing activities
● Use of all lodge facilities

Not Included:

● International flights to Buenos Aires
● Domestic flights within Argentina (Buenos Aires to Bariloche)
● Buenos Aires airport transfer (if changing airports)
● Accommodations and meals in Buenos Aires if needed
● Gratuities for guides and staff
● Long-distance telephone calls
● Massages (available by appointment)
● Travel and medical evacuation insurance (highly recommended)

Deposit & Payment

50% of trip cost due at booking. Remainder plus all taxes due 90 days before trip.

Cancellation Policy

● Cancellation 90+ days before trip: Full refund less $100 fee (if replacement angler found)
● Cancellation within 90 days: No refund unless qualified replacement angler provided
● No refunds for cancellation due to weather, acts of God, or airline/travel issues

Travel Insurance

Front Range Anglers strongly recommends Medical Evacuation Insurance (we recommend Global Rescue) and HIGHLY recommends Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance.

For insurance questions, contact: Kim D'Amico – kdamico@globalrescue.com – 617.459.4200

Connect with Our Patagonia Experts

Ready to learn more about fishing Rio Manso watershed with this Orvis-endorsed lodge? Our Adventure Travel team can answer all your questions.

Rob Kolanda – Adventure Travel Manager

Rob is a Front Range Anglers guide, Sage Elite Pro, and can provide insights on Patagonian fishing techniques, fly selection, and preparation for Rio Manso waters.

John Brown – Adventure Travel Coordinator

John handles international travel logistics and coordination with Rio Manso Lodge, ensuring every detail is handled seamlessly from booking to departure.

What We Can Help With:

● Rio Manso watershed fishing strategies
● Lake sight casting techniques for ultra-clear water
● Gear recommendations for diverse water types
● Fly selection for browns, rainbows, brook trout
● International travel coordination to Buenos Aires
● Buenos Aires airport transfer logistics
● Domestic flight connections to Bariloche
● What to expect at Rio Manso Lodge
● Non-fishing activities for non-angling partners
● Buenos Aires stopover recommendations
● Pairing you with compatible trip partners

Contact Us:

Email: rob@frontrangeanglers.com
Phone: 877-935-2975
Visit: 2344 Pearl St, Boulder, CO 80302

Stop by our Boulder fly shop to see Patagonia trout gear, test cast rods, and talk with our team about Rio Manso Lodge.

What to Bring to Rio Manso Lodge

Fishing Gear

Rods & Reels:

● 5-6 weight rod for streams and spring creeks
● 7-8 weight rod for lakes and large rivers
● Large arbor reels with smooth drag
● Floating lines
● Sinking lines or sink-tips for lake fishing
● Backing (200+ yards)

Flies:

Dry Flies:
● Parachute Adams, Stimulators, Caddis (sizes 12-18)
● Terrestrials: Hoppers, Beetles (sizes 8-14)
● Attractor patterns for lake sight casting

Nymphs:
● Pheasant Tails, Hare's Ears (sizes 12-18)
● Stonefly nymphs
● Caddis pupae
● Egg patterns

Streamers:
● Woolly Buggers, Zonkers (sizes 4-8)
● Baitfish patterns
● Articulated streamers for trophy fish

Leaders & Tippet:

● Leaders 9-12 feet
● Tippet 3X-6X
● Fluorocarbon for ultra-clear lakes

Wading Gear:

● Breathable chest waders
● Wading boots with felt or rubber soles
● Wading belt
● Wading staff (recommended)

Clothing for Patagonia Weather

November–April (Southern Hemisphere Summer):

Temperatures vary—be prepared for changing conditions.

Layers:

● Long-sleeve UPF fishing shirts
● Fleece or insulated jacket
● Rain jacket (essential)
● Rain pants
● Lightweight pants or shorts
● Long underwear/base layers
● Warm socks

Sun Protection:

● Wide-brim hat or cap
● Buff or neck gaiter
● Polarized sunglasses (critical for sight casting in clear lakes)
● Sunglasses retainer
● Sunscreen SPF 30+
● Lip balm with SPF

Evening:

● Casual comfortable clothing for dinner
● Light jacket for cool evenings by fireplace

Personal Items

Documents:

● Valid passport
● Argentine visa if required
● Credit card for extras, gratuities, massages
● Cash (Argentine pesos useful)

Other Essentials:

● Personal medications
● Basic first aid
● Toiletries
● Camera
● Binoculars for wildlife viewing

Optional:

● Book or tablet
● Hiking shoes for park trails
● Fly tying materials (lodge has fly tying area)

Gear Consultation

Front Range Anglers can outfit you with everything you need for Rio Manso fishing. Visit our Boulder shop or contact our team for personalized recommendations.