Fly Fishing in Coyhaique: Half-Day Guided Trout Trips on Simpson River and Seis Lagunas
Spend a half-day chasing brown and rainbow trout in the glacial rivers and lakes around Coyhaique. Expert local guides, small group instruction, and riverside lunches combine to make a productive, scenic Patagonian fishing day.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring or rent waders and sturdy boots
Waders are not provided—water is cold and banks are rocky; neoprene waders and felt or studded soles improve comfort and safety.
Purchase a Chilean fishing license
The guide supplies instruction but not the license—buy one in advance online or ask your operator to arrange it.
Dress in layers and pack waterproofs
Weather can shift from bright sun to sleet quickly; a breathable waterproof shell keeps you fishing when conditions change.
Practice low-impact catch-and-release
Use barbless hooks, keep fish in the water while handling, and follow your guide’s rules to protect spawning fish.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Seis Lagunas side creeks — smaller spring-fed fingers that hold patient trout
- •A quiet upstream pool near an old stone ford where light and reflection make sight-fishing rewarding
Wildlife
- •Andean condor
- •Southern river otter (huillín)
Conservation Note
Guides encourage catch-and-release and use barbless hooks; limiting bank access and following Leave No Trace practices helps protect spawning areas and fragile riparian vegetation.
Trout in these waters are historical introductions that reshaped local fisheries; the valley’s settlements grew with ranching and small-scale logging tied to frontier routes.
Photographer's Notes
- • Cobble bars with mountain backdrops
- • Riverside meadows where reflections form flat pools
- • Lodge terraces for afternoon light and panoramic shots
What to Bring
Waders (hip or chest)Essential
Keeps you dry and warm for wading cold Patagonian waters
Wading boots with aggressive treadEssential
Provides traction on slippery cobbles and riverbed gravel
Layered clothing and waterproof shellEssential
Thermal base layer plus breathable shell adapts to fast weather changes
Polarized sunglasses and sun protectionEssential
Polarization reduces surface glare for spotting fish; sunscreen protects against strong alpine sun
Common Questions
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes — a Chilean recreational fishing license is required; the guide can advise how to buy one ahead of time if you don’t arrange it yourself.
Are waders and boots provided?
No — the operator supplies rods, reels and flies but waders and boots are not included; you should bring or rent appropriate gear.
What is the group size and guide ratio?
Trips are private with two anglers per guide for personalized instruction and higher on-water efficiency.
What species will I target?
You’ll primarily target brown and rainbow trout, common and productive in Simpson River, spring creeks and the Seis Lagunas area.
Is the trip suitable for beginners?
Yes — guides provide instruction for beginners through advanced anglers; basic fitness and comfort standing in water are expected.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips may be canceled if conditions are unsafe; the operator follows a 24-hour cancellation policy for a full refund if canceled ahead of time.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Coyhaique, Aysén Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness—comfortable walking on uneven terrain and standing in rivers for short periods
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