Get ready - your trip is right around the corner!
Having the right equipment can ensure your trip goes as well as possible. If you don't have everything you need, don't worry we can help. As a Destination Travel customer, you are entitled to a 15% discount on any gear that you may need in our online store.
Below you will find Pat's suggestions, with links to our store to help with your research and shopping.
You can also view Pat's full list here .
Fly Rods
A 9 foot, 6 weight is the preferred rod in Patagonia. I recommend having two rods in the event you break one. In a perfect world, I suggest setting up one rod with a sink tip line and one rod with a floating line. If you are traveling to Patagonia during the fall (April excursion) it never hurts to bring a 7 or 8 weight to target some of the bigger fish on large streams. If weather permits, a trip to the Limay River is a distinct possibility to search for a trophy brown trout.
Fly Lines
Fly Lines: I would have both floating and sinking lines. I am a huge fan of Scientific Anglers fly lines. I like the Amplitude Infinity Smooth for floating lines and the Cold Sonar 200 or 250 grain for a sinking line. A good sinking line(25-foot sink tip) is critical for success, especially on the stillwaters. A shooting head is a good option too. Some of the guides favor shooting heads over sink tip lines. They sink quicker…
Terminal Tackle
I would bring 2X-5X tippet. I like fluorocarbon for nymphing and streamers, and nylon for dry flies. I would bring 9-foot 2X-4X tapered nylon leaders. You can add tippet to lengthen your leaders. I would have dry shake, paste floatant, split shot, strike indicators, line cleaner, and so on, so that you are prepared for a variety of fishing conditions.
Apparel
I would prepare for the worst and hope for the best. It’s Patagonia! Make sure you bring plenty of layers, stocking cap, rain jacket, down coat, sweater, fleece vest, gloves, and a buff. Dress in layers, you can always take clothing off if needed and put it into your dry bag.
Travel Bags and Luggage
I typically take two roller duffels with all my gear. Most airlines allow up to 50 pounds (some up to 70 pounds depending on your status) for international flights. The challenge is the domestic flights in Argentina. The airlines (Aerolineas Argentineas) only allow 33 pounds per bag, so plan accordingly. If you are overweight, they will charge you additional baggage fees. Personally, I just bite the bullet, and pay the additional bag fees. I want to have everything I need for an enjoyable vacation.
Flies
Bare Bones Fly Selection: The flies listed below are must-haves…
Olive Woolly Buggers #8-10
Olive Barr’s Slump Busters #6-8
Olive and Black Fortune Cookies (one size only)
Olive and black Lunch Money (#2 and #6)
Rubin Martin Sculpin #8-10
Parachute Adams #14 and 16
AK’s Red Quill #16
Elk Hair Caddis #10-14
Black, rust, and brown Leeches #10-12
Pat’s Rubber Legs #8-10
Black Balance Leech
BH Mini Woolly Bugger (Purple body with black and white hackle)
Minnow imititions
