Jurassic Lake Lodge

 

Jurassic Lake Lodge is home to the finest trophy Rainbow Trout fishery in the world. Nestled on the windswept banks of Lago Strobel in southern Argentine Patagonia, the lodge offers immediate private access to 15 miles of the Barrancoso River, 10 miles of the southwest coast of the lake, 20 lagoons, and 10 miles of Moro Creek. Here, anglers will regularly encounter rainbows averaging 10 pounds, with fish over 20 pounds caught frequently. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations, authentic Argentine cuisine, and experienced, English-speaking Argentinian guides. From beginner anglers to seasoned veterans, all will undoubtedly find this trophy fishing program and professional lodge operation truly outstanding.

Who It’s For

• Trophy Rainbow Trout anglers
• Fishing oriented groups

 

When To Go

The season at Jurassic Lake Lodge runs for about 9 months, from September through May. The early season, from September through December, is characterized by lively, unpressured fish and exceptionally productive angling in the Rio Barrancoso. The summer season, from January through mid-March, finds fish spread out throughout the lake’s shorelines, bays, and around the mouth of the Rio Barrancoso. This time of year is more technical than the early season, but is still very productive. Mid-March through May marks the fall season, characterized by cooling temperatures and more frequent rains. The late season offers exceptional fishing in the Rio Barrancoso and on Lago Strobel’s nearby coves, as rainbows feed ravenously in preparation for winter. Overall, the entire season can fish well at Jurassic Lake Lodge, and the best time to fish here is whenever you can make it!

Trophy Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout were first introduced to the Rio Barrancoso and Lago Strobel in the mid-1990s, and have since proliferated to create the world’s most remarkable trophy trout fishery. These fish have all the necessary ingredients for significant growth: ample food in the form of scuds and aquatic insects, cold, highly oxygenated water, and abundant habitat within the 27,000-acre lake and its tributaries. Additionally, the Rio Barrancoso provides an ideal spawning habitat for these colossal trout to reproduce naturally. Without question, Jurassic Lake is the best place on Earth to consistently find wild, trophy-sized Rainbow Trout. 

Equipment

Successful fishing at Jurassic Lake Lodge only requires a couple of rods with matching reels: a 9’ 8wt (this will be your primary lake rod), and a 9’ 6wt for fishing the Rio Barrancoso and Moro Creek. Some anglers may opt to bring a two-handed rod, but this is at your discretion. Your guides will assist in rigging your equipment for the day’s fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.

 

Days 1-2: From Home to El Calafate, Argentina

A week-long trip at Jurassic Lake Lodge runs from Saturday to Saturday. Getting to the lodge typically begins with a Thursday evening red-eye flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE). On Friday morning, you’ll take a taxi from the International Airport (EZE) to the Jorge Newbery Domestic Airport (AEP), where you’ll fly from Buenos Aires to Comandante Armando Tola International Airport (FTE) in El Calafate, Argentina. Once you’ve arrived in El Calafate, a Jurassic Lake Lodge representative will transport you to your pre-arranged hotel, where you will spend the night.

Day 3: From El Calafate to Jurassic Lake Lodge

On Saturday morning, a Jurassic Lake Lodge representative will drive you approximately 6 hours to the lodge, where you’ll get settled in, prepare your tackle, and enjoy a hearty meal.

Days 4 - 9: The Fishing Days

Fishing days start with a full breakfast before heading out with your guide for the day. Lunches are leisurely, featuring a full asado meal with wine and dessert at the lodge. Following an afternoon fishing session, you’ll return to the lodge to unwind and enjoy a fabulous gourmet meal. After dinner, you can enjoy fine Argentine wine and stories with friends, or get some rest to prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 10: From Jurassic Lake Lodge to El Calafate

After your week of fishing, you’ll enjoy breakfast on Saturday morning before taking the 6-hour ground transfer from the lodge to El Calafate, Argentina (FTE). Once you’ve arrived in El Calafate, a Jurassic Lake Lodge representative will transport you to your pre-arranged hotel, where you will spend the night.

Day 11: From El Calafate to Home

On Sunday morning, you’ll fly from El Calafate (FTE) to the Jorge Newbery Domestic Airport (AEP) in Buenos Aires. From there, you’ll take a taxi to the Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) in Buenos Aires, where you’ll board your subsequent flight back to your home destination.

 

Accommodations

Jurassic Lake Lodge can accommodate up to 12 anglers in 10 comfortable double-occupancy and single-occupancy rooms. Each guest room features a private bath, a hot shower, and clothing/gear storage. 

The Lodge features the main gathering area, replete with a toasty fireplace and sweeping views of Lago Strobel and the mouth of the Rio Barrancoso. The bar is well-stocked, offering a variety of libations including fine Argentine wines and Scottish whiskey. Adjacent to the living room is a small fly shop stocked with essential terminal tackle and productive flies.

Food

The cuisine at Jurassic Lake Lodge is authentically Argentine, featuring fresh meats and vegetables sourced from local estancias. Meals are planned around the customary fishing schedule and typically include an early breakfast with strong coffee and tea, fresh fruits, toast, and pastries. Lunches typically feature a traditional Asado with fine wines and desserts. Patagonian dinners are served late, around 9 pm, and include delicious regional dishes and more world-class wines. Additionally, the lodge boasts an impressive whiskey bar featuring Scottish single malts, blends, and a collection of aged casks. 

Connectivity

Complimentary satellite WiFi is available in the lodge. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions. Cell service is generally not available in this area. We recommend downloading WhatsApp on your mobile device to communicate with friends and family back home.

 

2024 Fishing Packages

Trident Travel’s expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge. 

Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing. 

Double Occupancy / Shared Guide (Per Person)

7 Nights / 6 Days = $8,000

4 Nights / 3 Days = $5,200

3 Nights / 2 Days = $4,200

 

What's Included:

• Guided Fishing
• Accommodations and Meals at Jurassic Lake Lodge
• Alcoholic beverages (excluding whiskey)
• Ground transfer to/from Jurassic Lake Lodge
• Fishing License
• Complimentary WiFi
• Limited laundry service
   

What's Not Included:

• Airfare to/from El Calafate
• Lodging, meals, and transfers in Buenos Aires and El Calafate
• All fishing equipment
• Gratuities for guides
• Gratuities for lodge staff
• Whiskey

 

What skill level is required for this trip?

Jurassic Lake Lodge offers something for everyone, from beginners to advanced anglers. No previous experience is required for this trip, although we highly recommend practicing casting in the wind to get the most out of your experience.

What should I do to prepare for a week of fly fishing in Argentina?

Most importantly, practice casting in windy conditions, as this will be a significant factor at Jurassic Lake. Also, purchasing the right gear, tackle, and clothing is important - use our recommended packing lists. You should think about your goals for the trip so that you can relay them to your guides. And lastly, figure out your travel logistics well in advance.

Is Jurassic Lake Lodge Family Friendly?

Jurassic Lake Lodge is best suited for solo anglers or fishing-oriented groups. Due to the remoteness of the lodge, there isn’t much else to do here other than fish and relax at the lodge.

How many other anglers will be there?

Jurassic Lake Lodge has a capacity of 12 anglers. This is truly a private water experience where you won’t encounter any crowding on the water.

How does money work in Argentina?

While credit cards are widely accepted throughout Argentina, we advise carrying enough cash in USD to cover all expenses. Many vendors will offer substantial discounts to travelers paying in USD.

Do the guides speak English?

Yes, all the guides at Jurassic Lake Lodge are proficient in English, ensuring clear communication during your trip.

Do I need travel insurance?

We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment. We recommend Travel Guard, a well-established insurance company offering excellent, affordable policies for angling travel.

 

What happens if I'm injured or have an emergency requiring evacuation?

Every situation is different when medical and security emergencies happen. To ensure you’re protected when things don’t go as planned, we highly recommend our clients enroll with Global Rescue.

Is traveling to Argentina safe?

Argentina is generally considered a safe destination for international tourists. As with any international travel, use common sense and keep your wits about you. Once at the lodge, crime is of little concern.

 

What kind of electrical outlets are there?

Argentina uses Type C and Type I plugs, so you’ll need a travel adapter to charge your electronic device.

 

What is the weather like?

The climate of southern Argentina is cool and arid, with temperatures averaging 60 degrees F in the warm months. This area is known for being quite windy year-round. While rain is always possible, it is generally arid. For travelers coming from the U.S., the climate of Lago Strobel can be compared to that of northern Montana.

How physically demanding is this trip?

Since the lodge is located at the mouth of the Rio Barrancoso, walks to the lake or the river are typically short. For longer excursions, your guide will transport you by 4X4 vehicle. That being said, anglers should be comfortable wading/standing for long periods while fishing in strong winds.

Is tipping customary in Argentina?

Yes, tipping is customary although it is at your discretion. Tipping 10-15 % of your trip total per person is recommended. Please plan on tipping in cash.