WUIJOOR LODGE,
Rio Menendez, ARGENTINA

ABOUT WUIJOOR LODGE

Located on the southern reaches of the legendary Río Menendez, Wuijoor Lodge is a warm and cosy retreat set on the private Estancia Laura. With over 27 km of exclusive access to the Menéndez, plus other water such as the lower Río Ona, this is a rare, high-quality destination for sea-run and resident trout.

Wuijoor means ‘light’ in the native Selk'nam language — and that spirit shines through in its remote beauty, warm hospitality, and unforgettable fishing.

FISHING THE MENÉNDEZ & ONA RIVERS

Two tributaries of the Río Grande on the estancia offer ideal smaller swing water, prime holding lies and lower pressure than on the main river.

The Menéndez holds some of the largest migratory brown trout in the system, while the Ona delivers dynamic water across its lower stretches. You’ll find classic pools, broad glides, and intimate riffles—perfect for both Switch and single-handed presentations.

The river water is natural and generally clear, greenish in tone, swelling after the seasonal rains that signal the start of the sea trout runs. Fishing is very technical, since the river has very short and very deep pools where the trout seek to pause without wasting energy. This normally forces us to use short and sinking lines to be able to present our flies down to where the fish are.

SEA-RUN BROWN TROUT

Sea-run browns are the main draw here, with fish regularly in the 7–15 lb class and trophy specimens exceeding 20+ lb caught each season. These fish are aggressive, hard-fighting, and deeply rewarding to target on swung flies. Expect to use smaller nymphs during the morning session, stepping up to dark woolly bugger style flies as the evening darkens.

RESIDENT BROWNS

Resident fish up to 4lbs offer consistent action in backchannels, pockets, and lighter riffles. These wild brown (and rainbow) trout are incredibly fit and eager to eat a well-presented nymph or dry, particularly during stable weather windows. You’ll typically catch them on the end of the swing due to their being pushed out of the bank security by the bigger seatrout.

LODGE ACCOMMODATION

Wuijoor Lodge accommodates a maximum of six anglers in three double bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom and warm in-room heating, and each with an excellent view of the surrounding Argentine steppe.

The lodge has three communal area wood fireplaces — combining to create a very warm, home-like ambience. In addition, we can attest to receiving world-class service by the lodge staff; their attention to detail is to be admired.

Dining at the Lodge is absolutely first-class. Prepared to be impressed with the exceptional quality of the cuisine prepared by the lodge chef. Choose between continental or American-style cooked breakfasts to start your day. Daily lunch is typically held at the lodge before an afternoon siesta and subsequent preparation for the evening bite.

The dinners are a special time. Each day, the chef creates abundant and delicious dishes, combining products from the province’s extensive coast and from the Argentine countryside (game is included) – always accompanied by delicious regional wines. There is no shortage of good after-dinner whiskeys so you can relax in good company and enjoy the stories shared at the end of the day.

In summary, Wuijoor Lodge is warm, simple, and comfortable – built for anglers to relax and enjoy themselves. The lodge accommodates small private groups in shared rooms with ensuite bathrooms, hearty chef-prepared meals, and a relaxed atmosphere. Dinners feature Patagonian flavors matched with local wines, ideal after a day on the water.

SEASONALITY & BEST TIMING

The late summer window, from March to mid-April, offers ideal river conditions, consistent water temperatures, and strong trout activity. This timing also avoids peak winds and coincides with prime sea trout runs. Perhaps a sign of changing climatic conditions, the past two seasons have been challenging during the traditionally good early-to mid-February period. Trout are still being consistently caught but low, warm and bright conditions mean smaller flies and a stealthy approach.

We are holding two prime March dates (Sunday to Sunday) for our guests to ensure your visit coincides with the peak runs: March 07 – 14, 2027 and March 28 – April 04, 2027. These two weeks will fill quickly so please get in touch for more information.

GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS

Bring an 8-9wt single-handed rod, or switch rod with Scandi heads, and bring a range of sink tips (T-7 to T-14) for the Zone 2 and 3 water (Ask us about the zones and pool sizes). A single-hand 7–8wt works well on calm days and for the smaller Zone 1 water. Casts are short and even with the typical Patagonian downstream winds, your guide will locate suitable holding water during each of your daily sessions.

Flies should include white rubber-leg nymphs, and weighted streamers in black, olive, and purple. Ask us about the famous Stevie Wonder fly, brought into existence by the brilliant guide, Agus, during our 2026 time on the water with him.

Don’t forget fluorocarbon tippet (12lb up to 20lb) and bring quality reels with plenty of backing, and a set of backup 8wt gear. Make sure your rods fit within your checked luggage for easy air travel.