From Captain Ahab and his whale to Salmon Fishing in the Yemen, avid anglers have always gone to great lengths to pursue their elusive quarry in remote spots. But discerning travellers considering a trip to South America to fish for the fabled brown trout of Chile are spoiled for choice when staying at Rio Palena Lodge, the newest addition to the portfolio of luxury adventure travel company Eleven Experience.
The lodge offers a range of experiences for budding or experienced fishermen, from wade fishing on the river to heli-fishing adventures to remote mountain lakes and streams scattered throughout the Patagonian wilderness. Pro fishing guides are on hand to advise guests where and how to fish depending on the conditions, and the lodge’s experience managers can arrange non-fishing activities including cooking classes, wine tasting, horseback rides and hiking trips.
Situated on a bend in the Rio Palena, the lodge is home to seven en-suite bedrooms, which can be booked individually or in their entirety for a whole-family or group escape.
For the ultimate luxury fishing experience, guests can charter a private plane for the three-hour flight from Santiago to Palena Airfield, from there it’s a 20-minute drive to the lodge. An eight-night package including six days of guided fishing (including one day of heli-fishing) and all meals and drinks starts from US$7,350 per person.