ABOUT WUIJOOR LODGE

Located on the southern reaches of the legendary Río Grande, Wuijoor Lodge is an exclusive retreat set on the private Estancia Laura. With over 15 km of water and access to the Menéndez and lower Río Ona rivers, 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

In addition to fishing the Rio Grande for large sea-run browns, two tributaries of the Río Grande on the estancia offer ideal smaller swing water, prime holding lies, and lower pressure.

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

The river water is natural and clear, greenish in tone. 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 in the place where the fish are.

SEA-RUN BROWN TROUT (10 - 20+LB)

Sea-run browns are the main draw here, with fish regularly in the 10–15 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.

RESIDENT BROWNS (UP TO 4LB)

Resident fish 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.

LODGE ACCOMMODATION

Wuijoor Lodge accommodates a maximum of six anglers in three double rooms, each with an en-suite bathroom, and an excellent view of the surrounding valley.

Dining at the Lodge is first-class. Choose between Continental or American-style cooked breakfasts to start your day. Lunch will be prepared and packed for the riverside.

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 – 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.

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 late February to early 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.

GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS

Bring an 8–9wt Spey or switch rod with Skagit heads and sink tips (T-8 to T-14) if fishing the Rio Grande. For the Rio Menendez tributary, a single-hand 7–8wt works well on calm days and for smaller water. Casts are short and even with the typical Patagonian downstream winds, your guide will locate suitable water.

Flies should include leeches, rubber-leg nymphs, and weighted streamers in black, olive, and purple. Don’t forget fluorocarbon tippet (12lb up to 20lb), quality reels with plenty of backing, and backup gear.