Hello, anglers and adventurers!
The third week of fishing at Villa María Lodge was marked by some dramatic weather changes that kept us on our toes. As expected, strong winds blew in from the north, reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h. Temperatures dropped sharply, dipping as low as 4ºC during the final hours of some fishing days. Rain upstream caused the river to rise by 15-20 cm, leading to a half-day of murky water.
The river’s temperature dropped from last week’s 17ºC to a chilly 9ºC, which affected the fish and their activity. Despite these challenges, we had some truly excellent fishing days, along with others that were more demanding. The highlight: all of our guests landed fish weighing over 16 lbs. Great job, everyone!
Star of the Week: Hans’ Triumphant Return
A special mention goes to Hans, a seasoned angler who returned to Villa María Lodge after more than 20 years. Back in 1998, Hans set the season’s record with a catch exceeding 25 lbs, earning a spot on our Wall of Fame. This week, he made history once again by landing a stunning 22-lb male. Hats off to Hans for this incredible achievement!
Gear and Strategies
The ever-changing conditions kept us adjusting our tactics. From light and small flies to colorful intruders paired with fast-sinking lines during the cold and murky river moments, our adaptability paid off. As always, our guides’ expertise ensured spectacular catches, all beautifully documented in photos.
Outlook for Next Week
The forecast promises excellent weather, and with plenty of fish in the river, we’re looking forward to another amazing week at Villa María Lodge.
Tight lines and happy fishing to all!
By Alejandro Martello – Villa Maria Lodge Fishing Manager