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Fishing style
Float & wade
Species
Brown & rainbow trout · Native perch
Trip season
November–May
Your local outfitter
Southern Rivers Patagonia

Big water. Wild trout.

An icon of Bariloche - Patagonia fly fishing.

The Limay begins on the eastern shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi and travels through the open Patagonian steppe. Within reach of Bariloche, its clear water, deep pools and strong currents create a river with many different ways to fish.

We float different sections and stop to wade suitable runs and riffles. Brown and rainbow trout are the main attraction, with native perch also present. Choose a half-day or full-day trip, or spend more time on the river with an overnight expedition or an all-inclusive package.

In April and May, large migratory brown trout become the main attraction on the Limay. These fish move into the river from Lake Nahuel Huapi, offering demanding fishing with streamers and sinking lines. We offer guided trips focused on this challenge, for anglers seeking the chance to catch what could be the trout of a lifetime.

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Angler holding a large rainbow trout beside a drift boat on the Limay River, Patagonia
Two anglers holding a large brown trout in the Limay River with autumn trees in Patagonia

Fishing through the season

The Limay River fishing season

The Limay offers very different fishing as the season progresses. From November to May, changes in water level, insect hatches and the movement of trout between the river and Lake Nahuel Huapi shape the way we fish. Brown and rainbow trout are present throughout the season, but the techniques and challenges change considerably.

November – December

High water and streamers

The season opens with high water and many rainbow trout making their way back to Lake Nahuel Huapi after spawning. Streamers are the go-to choice in these conditions. Sinking lines allow us to fish stronger currents, deep pools and areas where trout gather. Hitting the banks with streamers can produce some exciting surprises—and perhaps even a trophy trout.

December–January

Hatches, dry flies and emergers

As summer arrives and temperatures begin to rise, hatches become increasingly important, especially caddis hatches. This is the time to bring out floating lines, dry flies and emerger patterns. Watching where and how trout are feeding, matching the hatch and refining your presentation become key parts of the day. For anglers who enjoy fishing dries, this is one of the highlights of the season on the Limay.

February–March

Lower water and technical wading

Toward the end of summer, the river level is much lower and the fishing becomes more technical. More places become accessible for wading, allowing us to fish runs and riffles with nymphs. Reading the current, choosing the right drift and presenting the fly carefully matter more than simply covering distance. We combine the possibilities of the float with stops at suitable wading spots, adapting the approach to each section.

April–May

Large migratory brown trout in April and May

The final two months are associated with large brown trout moving from Lake Nahuel Huapi into the river ahead of spawning. Large streamers and heavy sinking lines take center stage. This is demanding fishing: long casts, persistence and many presentations may be needed before a fish responds. Much like fishing for steelhead, patience is part of the experience. We recommend this particular approach for experienced anglers looking for the challenge of a life-time brown trout.

Limay River bordered by willow trees with the snow-capped Andes in the background

Limay River · Patagonia, Argentina

Let’s plan your next cast.

Tell us your dates and the fishing you enjoy. We will help you shape your trip.

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