Maria Behety Lodge

 

Estancia Maria Behety Lodge in Tierra Del Fuego, Argentina is the world’s premier Sea Run Brown Trout lodge. At Maria Behety, anglers will find unparalleled private access to 32 miles of the middle and lower Rio Grande - a river often regarded as the crown jewel of Sea Run Brown Trout fisheries. The lodge itself boasts outstanding amenities, authentic cuisine, and experienced, english-speaking Argentinian guides. Upon their first visit, a majority of anglers will gain the benefit of exercising their right of first refusal to reserve the same week the following year. From beginner anglers to seasoned veterans, all will undoubtedly find this trophy fishing program and outstanding lodge operation second to none.

Who It’s For

• Sea Run Brown Trout fanatics
• Fishing-oriented couples/groups

 

When To Go

The season at Estancia Maria Behety (EMB) Lodge runs 14 weeks, from January through April. The first reliable wave of big, migratory Brown Trout starts to occupy the lower river by New Year’s Day. Energetic, aggressive fish and higher water levels characterize the month of January. If the wind cooperates, this timeframe can offer the best surface fly activity. By February and March, each pool in this 32-mile section often teems with fish, offering anglers exceptional fishing and the best weather. By early April, flows are much lower and the fish can become skeptical of flies. However, the late season also offers opportunities to catch some of the biggest trout of the season, with fish weighing north of 20 pounds caught and released every April. Overall, the entire season can fish well at EMB, and the best time to fish here is whenever you can make it!

Sea Run Brown Trout

Offering anglers over 100 named pools to fish for these anadromous giants, EMB Lodge calculates roughly 1,000 fish per river mile throughout the season. Combine this staggering fish density with an average weight of 12 pounds and you have a headhunter’s paradise. This is a river where legitimate trophy fish are caught weekly. Compared to other well-known Sea Run Brown Trout fisheries such as the Tungufljót River in Iceland, the weekly catch rate per angler at EMB is nearly double- averaging a dozen or more fish per angler in a week. No other fishery can compete with the Sea Run Browns of the Rio Grande, especially its population density and average fish size.

Equipment

Successful fishing at Estancia Maria Behety Lodge only requires a couple of rods with matching reels: a 6-piece 13’ 8wt Skagit for getting deep (this will be your primary rod), and a 6-piece 13’ 7/8wt Scandi for surface presentations. Some anglers may opt to bring a single-handed rod, but this is at your discretion. Your guides will help you rig appropriately for the day’s fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.

 

Days 1-2: From Home to Buenos Aires, Argentina

A week-long trip at Estancia Maria Behety Lodge runs from Saturday to Saturday. Getting to the lodge typically begins with a Thursday evening red-eye flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE). Once you’ve arrived in Buenos Aires on Friday morning, you will take a taxi approximately 45 minutes to your pre-arranged downtown hotel, and spend one night there. Some travelers opt to spend multiple nights in Buenos Aires to enjoy its amazing culture.

Day 3: From Buenos Aires to Maria Behety Lodge

On Saturday Morning, you will take a taxi from your downtown hotel to the Jorge Newberry Domestic Airport (AEP), where you’ll board your flight to Rio Grande, Argentina (RGA). Once you arrive in Rio Grande, an EMB representative will drive you approximately 45 minutes to the Lodge.

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, followed by an afternoon siesta. Following an evening 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 at the bar, or choose to get some rest in preparation for the next day’s adventure. The fishing days at EMB are longer than what most traveling anglers are accustomed to.

Day 10: From Maria Behety Lodge to Buenos Aires

After your week of fishing, you’ll enjoy breakfast on Saturday morning before beginning your 45-minute transfer back to Rio Grande (RGA), where you will board your flight to Buenos Aires (AEP). Upon arrival in Buenos Aires, you’ll typically take a taxi to your pre-arranged hotel, where you’ll spend one night.

Day 11: From Buenos Aires to Home

On Sunday morning, you’ll take a taxi to the Ezeiza International Airport (EZE), where you’ll board your flight back to your home destination.

 

Accommodations

Estancia Maria Behety Lodge features eight well-appointed double occupancy rooms. Angler capacity is limited to 12 rods per week, so the extra rooms allow a handful of anglers to secure a private room for an additional fee. Each room features two double beds, a private bathroom, and ample clothing storage. Each two guest rooms share a spacious lounge for fly tying or relaxation.

 

The Lodge features the “Great Room” gathering area, replete with a roaring fireplace, vaulted ceilings, and sweeping views of the Rio Grande and surrounding Pampas. The complementary self-serve bar is well-stocked with libations and fine Argentine wines. Adjacent to the great room is the cigar room, a computer for checking emails, and a small fly shop.

Food

The cuisine at EMB Lodge is authentically Argentine, featuring fresh meats and vegetables sourced from the estancia. 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 are the largest meal of the day, and feature a traditional Asado with fine wines and dessert. Afternoon siestas are common after lunch. Dinners are typically served late to accommodate the prime evening fishing and include delicious regional dishes and more world-class wines. 

Connectivity

Complimentary 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.

 

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

Double Occupancy / Shared Guide (Per Person)

7 Nights / 6 Days = $8,500

 

What's Included:

• Guided Fishing
• Accommodations and Meals at EMB
• Alcoholic beverages
• Transfers to/from Rio Grande (RGA)
• Complimentary WiFi
• Limited laundry service
   

What's Not Included:

• Airfare to/from Rio Grande (RGA)
• Lodging, meals, and transfers in Buenos Aires
• Fishing License (approximately $350)
• All fishing equipment
• Gratuities for guides
• Gratuities for lodge staff
• Transfers to/from Ushuaia

 

What skill level is required for this trip?

Estancia Maria Behety Lodge offers something for everyone, from beginners to advanced anglers. No previous experience is required for this trip, although we highly recommend practicing your two-handed 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, you should practice two-handed casting in windy conditions, as wind can be a major factor in Tierra Del Fuego. 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 Estanica Maria Behety Lodge Family Friendly?

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

How many other anglers will be there?

Maria Behety Lodge has a capacity of 12 anglers. The fishing program is designed to pair groups of 2 anglers with a different guide each day, on a new beat. 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 Maria Behety Lodge are fluent in English.

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 Tierra Del Fuego is subantarctic, with cool temperatures averaging 50 degrees F in the warm months. This area is known for being quite windy, especially in January and February. While rains are always possible, it is generally arid.

Are there fees for airport transfers?

If you choose to fly into Rio Grande Airport (RGA), the 45-minute ground transfers are included in the package price. If you fly into Ushuaia, the 3-hour ground transfers are not included in the package price.

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.