Brown trout (Salmo trutta) and sea trout (S. truttamorpha trutta) are both members of the same species. They can be distinguished by the fact that resident, non-migrating browns live in freshwater river systems such as Chile’s Futaleufú, while the sea-run brown trout of Tierra del Fuego are anadromous, migrating to the ocean and returning to freshwater as massive salmon-size specimens to spawn.
Brown trout are native to Europe and Asia, but the natural distribution of the migratory forms may be circumpolar. Sea-run brown trout are not considered endangered in any location. But in some cases, individual stocks are under various degrees of stress due to habitat degradation and artificial (hatchery) propagation leading to introgression.
Brown trout like cold (60-65 degrees F, or 15-18 degrees C), well-oxygenated waters, especially large streams in mountainous areas. Cover is important, and they are more likely to be found where there are submerged rocks, undercut banks, and overhanging vegetation.
Browns in fresh water have the ability to grow to 9+ pounds. Although in most small rivers a mature brown might average 2 to 3 pounds. Tierra del Fuego’s Sea-Run Browns are another story, and consistently push into the 20-30+ pound range. Fish this size are the ultimate prize.
Brown trout are active both by day and night and are predators. While in freshwater, their diet can include small fish, frogs, and wayward mice as well as mayflies, stoneflies, caddis, and terrestrial insects. A brown’s unapologetic, all encompassing appetite is what makes it a fly-fishing favorite.
All of our destinations require a fishing license. We will ask you for the necessary information so that we can get the Fishing License prior to your arrival.
Prior to your arrival we will be sending you information on the fishing program including a recommended packing list.
There are quality fly rods, reels and fly lines available at the Lodges for you to use if needed. Please advise us of your need for a rod/reel prior to arrival to ensure availability. A charge of $125 will be billed to you in the event a rental rod is broken (this covers the cost of shipping and repair). Flies and leaders are also available for purchase at the lodges.
For all our locations a lodge representative will meet you upon your arrival to the local airport holding a sign with the Lodge name so that you can identify them easily. If you are delayed or miss your flight, please let us know.
If you are joining us at our Argentina or Chile lodges, you can easily add to your sporting adventure by combining your trip with either more fishing adding other species, or with a stay at one of our fine bird hunting lodges for the best Cast & Blast experience in South America. If you are interested in adding variety to your sporting life, look no further than David Denies Bird Hunting and Red Stag Patagonia. All three brands are owned and operated by the same company, The Kautapen Group, and each operation is dedicated to making your outdoor experience fun, memorable, and productive.
