put our experience to work for you
Here at Big Sky Anglers we have lived, worked, and explored throughout Patagonia for decades. We have learned a lot over the years about what you need in different places, in different conditions, and at different times of the season. Our bond with El Encuentro Fly Fishing is especially strong. We've worked closely to develop new flies, and refine new fishing strategies. We are on the cutting edge of advancements in gear designs, and in constant contact with the El Encuentro team on the ground to keep our finger on the pulse of current conditions. We know when it’s a dry year, or a cold season; when the dragonflies are hatching, and when the migratory fish are moving.
Shop Recommended Gear for El Encuentro Fly Fishing
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Rods & Reels
A medium to fast action rod will do the job in Central Patagonia. Wind is common and faster action rods will out preform softer ones. It is common to fish dries and streamers during the same day, and a rod that will handle both techniques is a must. A 9 ft 5 wt rod will do almost everything you need. At times it is nice to have a 8-9 ft 4 wt along for dries and a 9-9’6 ft 6 wt or 7 wt for streamers and longer casts. Trips like this are the reason to buy a high-end reel with a smooth, durable drag. It's common to hook very large fish on light tippets, and a smooth drag can be the difference when landing bigger fish. An extra reel for your sink-tip line is recommended.
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Fly Lines
A good weight forward floating line will be used most of the time. Rio and Scientific Anglers make quality lines.
You will want to have along a 15-25 ft fast sinking tip line for your 5
or 6 wt rod. A 200 grain weight pairs well with a 6 weight rod. A 250 grain matches nicely with a 7 weight.
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Leaders and Tippet
The trip of a lifetime across the globe to Patagonia is no time to scrimp on terminal tackle. We recommend traveling with a fresh set of tippet in 1x-5x, and tapered leaders in 7.5' 0x-3x, and 9' 4x-5x. Fluorocarbon tippet in size 1x-3x can be useful for streamer fishing, as can Maxima Leader Material in 6lb - 15lb.
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waders & Boots
We prefer breathable Chest waders for every situation you will encounter. During the colder months you can layer to meet your warmth needs.
During the summer months you may want to bring along a pair of neoprene booties and simply wet wade.
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Outerwear & Apparel
Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Argentine seasons are opposite from those in the North. November & December are early spring and can be fairly cool, compare them to May and June in the northern hemisphere. January, February, & March are the warmest months of the year and could be compared to July, August, and September in the States. April & May are fall months and will have cooler temperatures. Weather in the mountains can change rapidly and it is always a good idea to have some warm clothing layers along.
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Packs & Bags
Durable, waterproof, dustproof bags that can easily go from the back of the truck to the raft to the river are a must.
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Luggage and travel organizers
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Tools and Accessories
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