Estancia Maria Behety 7th – 14th January 2023, 3 places left on Olly’s hosted week
There are many great trips to be had in freshwater, but Argentina is undoubtedly one of the best. Many will know that Argentina offers a wide range of fishing types, from dorado in the north to trout fishing in Patagonia and, of course, the sea trout in the south. It is the sea trout fishing in Tierra del Fuego that I find the most remarkable and unique. The rivers that flow through this land of fire are home to some of the largest sea trout in the world. In short, nowhere on this planet can compare when it comes to targeting this great species. The Rio Grande shines as the brightest jewel in this shining crown. Nowhere is as consistent for the size of fish or can boast such strong runs.
While there are numerous excellent lodges spread throughout the length of the Rio Grande, Estancia Maria Behety remains one of my favourites, and both fingers and toes remain crossed that I will be able to continue to make a pilgrimage there each season. The fact that over half the rods on most weeks are returning is a testament that I am not the only one who thinks this way. There are few lodges I can think of that seem to blend comfort, great food, and a relaxed atmosphere quite like Estancia Maria Behety. Once again, I will be returning with a group this January, and there are still a few places left. Besides the fishing, my thoughts also turn to the wonderful asado lunches while overlooking the mighty Rio Grande with a glass of fine Malbec.
The Fishing
From the border with Aurelia Lodge on the middle reaches of the Rio Grande Estancia Maria Behety owns the entire length of the left bank to the estuary. This allows anglers at Estancia Maria Behety to rotate through the premier pools of the lower and middle beats of the river, which have historically been the most prolific. With access to more than 102 pools, the lodge can focus on the best water according to the current conditions, which is a huge advantage early in the season when fish are running. These pools fill with chrome bright sea trout, with each high tide twice a day. Estancia Maria Behety offers the complete Rio Grande experience as you will cover a wide range of water types and fishing situations during your stay.
Fishing the Rio Grande in 7th – 14th January allows anglers to target the brightest, strongest and most acrobatic fish of the season. More often than not, it is a hen fish of sixteen to eighteen pounds that provides the most memorable fight, and it is not uncommon for one of these fish to jump ten times or more, as happened to me last season.
Some of the best sea trout guides in the world
Over the years, Estancia Maria Behety has developed one of the most experienced guide teams on the river. The guide team of six know all the pools intimately and have an excellent grasp of all the techniques needed to target these sometimes finicky fish. All of the guides at the lodge are local Argentine guides who have grown up in Patagonia, targeting trout and sea trout since they were young. They are all charming and speak very good English.
The Lodge
Estancia Maria Behety Lodge sits on a promontory overlooking the Rio Grande. It has spectacular panoramic views of vast pampas and the remnants of the Andean cordillera framing the background. Located upstream from La Villa EMB is part of the same estancia owned by the Menedez family. It is the larger of the two lodges with eight double occupancy rooms that take twelve rods and a maximum of sixteen guests.
The main room is timber-framed and features 20 foot plus high ceilings with banks of tall windows that allow light to flood the room. A roaring fireplace and several sitting areas provide the perfect place to relive the fishing of the day and relax with delicious appetizers and a cocktail. A full bar is well stocked with all the proper libations, including the finest Argentine wines and plenty of cold beer.
Trip Itinerary:
Thursday 5th January: Arrive in Buenos Aires and overnight.
Friday 6th January: Transfer to domestic airport fly to Rio Grande. Overnight in Rio Grande.
Saturday 7th January: Road transfer to Estancia Maria Behety Lodge.
Sunday 8th January to Friday 13th January: Six full days fishing on the prime middle and lower reaches of the Rio Grande.
Saturday 14th January: Road transfer to Rio Grande. Depart for Buenos Aires and overnight.
Sunday 15th January: Depart Buenos Aires for international flight home.
Cost: US$7,500 per person
Includes: 7 nights 6 days fishing at EMB Lodge, single room, full board at EMB Lodge all meals and drinks, shared guide basis
Excludes: International or domestic flights, hotel in Buenos Aires and Rio Grande or fishing licences which cost: US$300.
Click HERE to view our Argentine and Chile brochure, and HERE for other availability for 2023 on the Rio Grande and Rio Gallegos.
