Who is best suited to this destination? This destination is very appealing to a wide variety of anglers. It is modern and well appointed, it is great value in the world of heli-fishing, and the waters are well rested. Guests who are comfortable walking several miles a day along the rivers will have the best experience and the greatest number of opportunities.
Where is the lodge? The lodge is located on estancia Choychoy Mallin. The estancia is in the most northern reach of the Neuquen province, approximately six hours north of San Martin. To date it is the northern-most fishing operation in Patagonia by several hours.
How do I get there? To get to Choychoy Mallin you will need to fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina and then on to San Martin de los Andes. You are met in San Martin and transferred approximately four hours to a small rural airport where you are met by the helicopter that will fly you the rest of the way to the lodge (approx. 15 min).
When should I go? Like most destinations in Patagonia the season runs from December through April and can fish well the entire time. Late January and February can be quite warm. The unique thing about this destination is because it is so far north the daytime temperatures in April can be in the low 70’s which is much warmer than the vast majority of Patagonia at that time of year.
How will I fish? Chochoy Mallin is first and foremost a heli-fishing operation, meaning that you will access your beat by helicopter. There are also a few beats of water close to the lodge that are accessed by 4wd, but this is the exception and not the norm. All the fishing is done while wading and a good portion of summer guests can wet wade. There is a guide and assistant guide for every two clients. While we do not promote this trip as offering single guiding, it essentially offers just that. The assistant guides are guides in training and very capable. There will be a combination of dry fly, nymph, and streamer fishing, sometimes all in the same day. Dry-dropper fishing is very common and productive.
Is there wade fishing? Yes. All fishing is done on foot.
Where will I fish? They currently have roughly two dozen different beats and counting. Better still, they are still exploring and expanding into additional small creeks and lagoons. They have a combination of freestones, spring creeks and stillwater like lagoons.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? The average helicopter rides are approximately 15 minutes from the lodge. The helicopter is a Bell 407 and can take five passengers. The first group departs at 8:30AM and the second at approximately 9:00AM. The first flight back is at approximately 5:30 and appetizers are served at 6:30PM.
What type(s) of fish will I catch? Rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout.
How many fish will I catch? They have a variety of fisheries. Some are great for numbers where you could have a 20+ fish day and others are more technical where you should set your sights on a half dozen quality fish per day.
Will I see other anglers? Possibly but very few. Approximately 60% of the water you fish is on private estancias exclusively accessed by Choychoy Mallin. The water that has public access is more than five hours from the nearest town of size (San Martin de los Andes).
What are the guides like? As with most guides in Patagonia they are very good at what they do and take their jobs seriously. They all speak English and are often very interesting. Assistant guides also speak English but may be less proficient. Guides rotate with guests throughout the week.
What are the physical demands? Because it is all walk and wade the more fit you are the more water you will be able to access. That said because they have a guide or assistant with each angler most people can effectively fish this destination.
The thing to remember is if you struggle getting around on rivers you will have access to limited amount of water.
Are there any special skills required? No
Does the lodge provide equipment? Fishing gear is available for guests if needed.
What is your favorite setup for the trip? Any high-quality fast action 6-weight will do the trick for most of their waters. Most anglers travel with a variety of rods in the 4- to 7-weight range.
What are the top flies? Caddis, mayflies, and foam attractor patterns with rubber legs are the go-to dries. Red and silver copper johns are staples for nymphing, and assorted dark-colored weighted woolly bugger patterns with rubber legs are their go-to patterns for streamer fishing.
What are the options if water conditions become challenging? If the weather is too rough to fly there is a home river accessible by 4wd, however this is rare. Last season they flew on 98% of the days.
What is a typical day like? 7:30 AM breakfast, 8:30 AM first group departs. Lunch is served riverside. Appetizers are served back at the lodge at 6:30 PM.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge? The atmosphere is relaxed. While the lodge is very nice, and everything is professional, there is no need to get dressed up. If you come to dinner in your fishing clothes no one would give it a second thought.
Is there an on-site owner, manager or other point-person at the lodge? The head guide is also the lodge manager, and the owner of the property will be there as well. They are very attentive to all guest needs.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Guests eat in the great room and the meals are gourmet. Most dishes will be made from scratch by a warm, wonderful, smiling team. While beef will aways make a solid showing in Patagonia you will also see fresh pastas.
What is the alcohol policy? All beer, wine, and alcohol is included. The lodge serves a nice variety of both red and white wines. They will have a very good spirit selection at the bar, although guests are welcome to bring a particular spirit if they have a favorite.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? The new lodge was completed in January of 2022. It has a grand entrance and a beautiful great room with a large comfortable sitting area, fireplace, bar, and dining room. There are four spacious guest rooms with two queen beds. The style is modern estancia. There is also a covered porch for dining outside and a fire pit next to a small pond. The main lodge is located next the original more modest estancia.
One night of the trip is spent at the Trocoman River House. This is a wonderfully traditional and authentic experience. The house is a vintage two-bedroom chalet with whitewashed mud walls, a cozy kitchen/dining area compete with a wood stove and fireplace for cooking. The bathroom has a small fireplace that heats the shower water, and the guest bedroom also has its own fireplace. The house, which overlooks the river, is staffed by Damien the gaucho who is most often accompanied by his dog, and an assistant. Damien will be your host and cook for the evening. The experience is reserved for two guests at a time and is wonderfully unique.
Is there internet and/or cell service? There is no cell service but there is wireless internet.
Are there other activities? No
Are there any other expenses? No
Do I need a visa? No
Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances? No. We recommend that guests always consult with the U.S. Department of State and the Center for Disease Control websites for general travel information and guidelines.
