Rio Guanaco King Salmon

After more than a decade developing the famous Glacier King programme at Estancia Cristina, learning about king salmon fishing and the behaviour of this species, the guides at Tres Amigos have been scouting for more rivers and locations that could have the potential that they saw when they first fished the Rio Caterina. The Rio Guanaco is much longer and way different to most fisheries the Tres Amigos guides had previously seen and it took them more than six years to understand and build a consistent programme based out of the Estancia La Sofia. The river that flows through the estancia is not only a prolific king salmon fishery but the surrounding spaces are a wilderness paradise filled with pumas, condors, guanacos and a myriad other wildlife species. The Rio Guanaco is flanked by a high canyon with spectacular views of the Andes mountains. This location is a unique experience for anglers as well as nature lovers.

King salmon return to the Rio Guanaco between December and March, with many fish exceeding 40 pounds. The combination of stunning scenery, strong fish and untouched waters make this one of the best places in South America to target king salmon on the fly. Visitors to the Rio Guanaco have access to world-class guides and luxury accommodations at Estancia La Sofia, a lodge designed for comfort whilst maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding wilderness.

The Rio Guanaco is the ideal size river for swinging flies. Anglers focus their efforts on the pools where king salmon arrive after their long journey from the ocean, and that "search" is a big part of the fishing per se. Within the estancia’s property there are more than 17 kilometres of river that sees very limited fishing pressure. During the months of December and January, salmon are in excellent condition, some of which are completely silver. The closest fishing beats are within metres of the ranch house, with the furthest beat about a 35 minute drive in 4x4 vehicles. A normal day begins at 7.30am with breakfast at the lodge, and by 8:30am anglers will be fishing. Anglers return to the lodge at 1pm for lunch and a siesta. After a break, the afternoon fishing session normally starts at 4:30pm with anglers typically fishing until 9pm.

Rods
A 12’0” or 13’0” 8- or 9-wt, two-handed rod is ideal for better line control and swinging flies, though an 8- or 9-wt single-handed rod can also be used.
Reels
A sturdy reel with a strong drag system is essential as the fish are large, extremely strong and powerful. The reel should be loaded with at least 200 yards of 30 lb backing or 50 lb braid.
Lines
The best lines for this Spey style fishing are Scientific Anglers Skagit heads with a variety of Third Coast Textured Spey Tips, including Intermediate/Sink 2, Sink 2/Sink 4, Sink 3/Sink 5 and Sink 7.
Flies
King salmon respond well to Intruder style flies as well as articulated leeches in black, blue, fuchsia and red, which contrast well with the glacier-fed water. Frontier Fly Fishing can arrange the right flies for your trip if you don’t tie your own flies.
Leaders and Tippet Material
Fluorocarbon or nylon leaders and tippet material in the 25lb to 40lb class are the preferred breaking strains for the Rio Guanaco.
Wading Gear and Clothing
December and January are warm months in Patagonia so ideally anglers should bring breathable waders with rubber soled wading boots. A good rain jacket is always a must since the Andean climate is usually very changeable and anglers can experience four seasons in one day.

Techniques for Catching King Salmon
Swinging the Fly: This involves casting across the current and allowing the fly to swing downstream across the current.

Strip Retrieve: This technique involves a fast retrieve which can trigger strikes from aggressive fish.
Setting the Hook: King salmon have tough mouths so a firm hook set is essential.

Fighting the Fish: Patience is key here as these fish are known for long runs and hard-fought battles. The reward, however, is an unforgettable fight with one of the strongest freshwater fish you will tangle with.