Heli-Fishing for Patagonia's Inchworm Frenzy

The following article is courtesy of our incredible partners from SET Fly Fishing.

Why is there so much excitement about a little green worm? Many of our regular guests try to time their trips to this Northern Patagonia destination to coincide with this event. What makes it so appealing? You can sight-fish for large trout using top-water worm imitations as the naturals fall from the overhanging trees. It does not get much better…well, except for seeing several fish surfacing under the same willow!

Chochoy Mallin offers remarkable opportunities for “inchworm” fishing. Over the last few seasons, we have discovered several rivers where this fascinating phenomenon occurs.

Two remote, fly-fishing-only canyons with willow-lined banks have become a classic destination for Chochoy Mallin guests searching for worms during January. But the good news does not stop there! We have started finding the same action in some other creeks, providing even more opportunities to experience this unforgettable hatch.

These Willow Worms are the larvae of a sawfly, a tiny wasp that spends its life cycle around willow trees. Throughout the Northern Patagonian summer, these wasps go through multiple life cycles, eventually reaching overwhelming numbers and munching on the entire foliage of the trees. Imagine the free protein feast this provides for the trout! During the hottest part of our summer, especially on breezy days, the branches overhanging the river shake, sending immense quantities of larvae down onto the water. These worms become so important to the fish that it is even common for them to regurgitate balls of worms after being caught – a bit disgusting, but undeniably fascinating!

Our expert guides have developed the most effective and creative techniques to match this unique hatch. The fish can be particular about the size, color, and materials of the flies. So, if you are a fly tier who enjoys using your own creations, please reach out, and we will provide all the necessary information to tie the perfect patterns for your trip.

This past January, we had three remarkable weeks filled with the magic of the inchworm hatch. Our guests landed some truly unforgettable fish on these tiny flies. Look at the happy faces below – these memories will last a lifetime!