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Fishing style
Float & wade
Species
Brown, rainbow & brook trout
Trip season
November–late January
Your local outfitter
Southern Rivers Patagonia

A journey into the Andean forest.

Manso River: a journey to fly fishing paradise

The Manso River links a chain of lakes as it winds through deep mountain valleys and native forests in the southern sector of Nahuel Huapi National Park. Located nearly two hours from Bariloche, it combines emerald-green water, deep pools, and spectacular scenery.

Our full-day float trip covers approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), from Lake Steffen to the confluence with the Villegas River. We travel by raft, run several rapids, and may stop to wade and fish when river conditions and water levels allow.

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Aerial view of anglers floating the Manso River through native forest with the Andes in the background
Angler and guide in a cataraft on the clear waters of the Manso River beside native forest

Your next fishing trip starts here

See the Manso River in action.

Press play and experience a day of fly fishing surrounded by pristine nature and breathtaking landscapes.

Anglers fly fishing from a drift boat on the clear Manso River near Bariloche, Patagonia Watch the full filmYouTube · 2 min 25 s

Fishing through the season

Fly fishing on
Manso River.

Our Manso River trips run from November through late January, when water levels drop too low for a float trip. As the season progresses, the fishing changes: early in the season, we primarily target trout with streamers, while later on, anglers have more opportunities to sight-fish for trout feeding on the surface.

Deep, crystal-clear pools, runs and riffles, and wooded riverbanks offer a variety of fishing opportunities along the float, with excellent chances of landing brown, rainbow, and brook trout.

November

High water and streamers

Early in the season, particularly during November’s high-water period, we focus on sinking lines and streamers. This allows us to explore the river’s deep pools and heavy runs, which hold good numbers of brown and rainbow trout. Trout measuring between 20 and 50 centimeters—approximately 8 to 20 inches—are common, with the possibility of encountering an even larger brown trout. We fish these sections from a cataraft, adapting our approach to each angler’s experience and to the river’s conditions at the time.

December

Dragonflies, damselflies and dry flies

As summer progresses, dragonflies and damselflies—known by anglers as “dragons and damsels”—become key players on the Manso River. Floating lines and large attractor dry flies allow us to target trout feeding on the surface. It is an especially rewarding time for anglers who enjoy seeing the take. We adapt our approach to the prevailing conditions, fishing from the raft and stopping to wade suitable sections whenever river conditions allow.

January

A float shaped by the river level

Our Manso River trips run through late January. River flows influence both the float and our choice of fishing spots and techniques. Rather than relying on a single method throughout the day, we combine streamer fishing in deep pools with opportunities to fish a floating line—either on the surface or while nymphing through runs and riffles. The guide plays a key role in selecting the best approach, especially as the trout become increasingly selective.

Southern Rivers Patagonia · Manso River

Guided trips and expeditions on the Manso River

Choose how you would like to experience Manso River.

01

Full-day trips

A full day to explore the water with your guide.

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Expedition · 1 night

Explore the Manso River and spend a night in camp.

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Keep exploring Patagonia

Nine waters. Endless possibilities.

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Angler wading the turquoise waters of the Manso River beside reeds and Patagonian forest

Manso River · Patagonia, Argentina

Start planning your next fishing trip

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

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