Equipment and Flies

The Fly Shop has become the recognized expert on the Rio Grande.

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Since our first visit to the fabulous river eighteen years ago, we helped select the right rods and terminal tackle for thousands of fisherman. With the assistance of the terrific guides at both the Maria Behety and Despedida and the experience and advice of all the anglers we’ve outfitted over those years, The Fly Shop has developed flies and new techniques for fishing the Rio Grande that are far more productive than in the days when Joe Brooks, Ernie Schweibert, A.J. McClane and other pioneer anglers of the Tierra del Fuego first brought attention to the magnificent fishery.

Two-handed rods have become very popular on the Rio Grande and are excellent tools for covering the water, especially when the wind is howling or the river is up and wider than normal. In the last three years we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of Rio Grande anglers using two-handed rods. 74.3 percent of the Rio Grande anglers are fishing the big double-handed guns now. Two-handed rods are arguably the most efficient tool to fish the Rio Grande; they make it easy for a lot of anglers, especially those with shoulder or elbow problems. Single-handed 8-weight rods matched with stout reels and assortment of interchangeable tips still have their place on the Rio Grande and, in the right conditions fish can be taken on the surface. However, sink-tip lines streamers and nymphs account for the vast majority of trophy trout.

Much like an Alaskan fall day, most anglers are very comfortable with a single layer of underwear insulation beneath breathable waders, a warm shirt and a waterproof jacket.

A very comprehensive and complete pre-trip tackle and travel planner, specifically assembled for the Rio Grande is available for all anglers headed down to Tierra del Fuego.

2010 General Rio Grande Travel & Information in PDF Format

2010 Estancia Despedida Lodge Outfitting Guide in PDF Format