There are four to five full-day river sections to enjoy, each with a variety of challenges and surprises, accessed by Hyde jet boats. Skating and twitching large dries like Fat Alberts and Chernobyl patterns can produce explosive strikes. Long riffles are ideal for pulling over and wading, and while dries can be effective, fishing one of our favorite pancora imitations on a long swing is truly deadly. For streamer aficionados, you will find the Palena to be one of the best rivers anywhere for trophy browns, and with the water so clear it’s often a visual experience that anglers live for. Included in your fishing adventure are Palena Canyon outpost and a riverfront outpost on the lower Futaleufu, a secluded haven that provides quick access up and down stream to magnificent stretches of the Futa. The exciting dragonfly fishing in Lake Yelcho, and big browns and king salmon in the lower Yelcho River are also well within reach. Add at least one day of helicopter fishing to remote lakes and streams, and you have the most dynamic fly fishing experience available in Chile. For non-anglers, or if you just need a day off from fishing, we offer mountain biking, hiking, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, sightseeing picnics, yoga, cooking classes and wine tasting, or just kick back at the lodge and schedule a soothing massage. And then you have the intangibles of the awe-inspiring Andean forests towering overhead, the sounds of the current rushing over centuries old boulders, a giant condor floating on a thermal over a glacier. It’s an atmosphere of tranquility and raw nature to appreciate and savor.

December - April

While being out on the enchanting and challenging rivers, lakes and streams of Chilean Patagonia always takes top billing, why not hang-out, relax, eat, drink, sleep in the unmatched, comfort and style of our lodge? And the key here is the outstanding staff—guest experience specialists, gourmet chef, and top English-speaking professional guides. The newly-remodeled lodge features seven en-suite bedrooms, each with a stunning view of one of nature’s most spectacular valleys. Your private chef prepares creative breakfasts each morning, and sends you off with savory lunches, drinks and local wines to keep your energy up through your daily adventures. On your return, share your experiences on the lounging deck overlooking the shimmering river while sipping a fine Argentine or Chilean wine, or a Pisco Sour, as the sunset ignites the surrounding Andes Mountains. Or take a luxurious soak in the wood-fired hot tub. For dinner? Enjoy artistic presentations of fine beef, homemade pastas, salmon, and locally-grown produce in the spacious yet cozy lodge, or a special Chilean asada, a barbeque accompanied by fresh salads and just baked breads.

PROPERTY DETAILS: 13 acre property grounds. Max capacity: 14 people. 7 double occupancy rooms with king or double beds and en-suite bathrooms. River facing outdoor patio. Wood burning fireplace in great room with views of the Andes. Wood-fired sauna and hot tub. Gear and wader drying room.

Fly to Santiago, Chile. Expect an 8-10 hour flight from the US then catch a flight to Puerto Montt, a 1 hour, 45 minute hop. (Recommend spending at least one night in Santiago before your flight to Puerto Montt. Overnight in Santiago is not included in the trip price). Then take a 35 minute flight to Chaiten followed by a 3 hour drive to Rio Palena Lodge.

We can arrange a wine tour of the best Chilean wineries and City Tours if you prefer.

NOVEMBER - APRIL

8 NIGHTS & 6 DAYS Fishing. $7,350 USD per person based on double occupancy

5 NIGHTS & 3 DAYS Fishing $5,200 USD per person based on double occupancy.

INCLUSIONS: One night of lodging in Puerto Varas, seven nights of lodging at Rio Palena Lodge, ground transfers in Puerto Montt/Puerto Varas, guided fishing, one day of heli-fishing, all necessary gear for fishing, chef prepared breakfast, lunch, après, and dinner, house alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

EXCLUSIONS: All round trip airfare from your hometown to Puerto Montt, charter flights from Puerto Montt to Palena or Chaiten, round trip ground transportation from Chaiten or Palena Airfield.