On 28-Mar-2009, Dave LaCourse wrote:

Having been there two years ago, I can recommend you fly into
Balmaceda. Fly exclusively with LAN. Your point of entry will be
Santiago de Chile. Lots of very nice hotels in the city where you and
the wife can unwind for a day or so.

Continue your flight in-country to Balmaceda, a one horse town in mid
Patagonia, and take a taxi to Coyhaique. Coyhaique is a fairly large
town and has a fly shop, some outfitters, but most importantly a car
rental agency. Rent a truck, 4 cylinder. Gas is fairly cheap, btw.
In addition to stocking up on camping gear (rented from the outfitter
in town), there is a decent super market in town that also sells
beer, wine, and the hard stuff.

Google Coyhaique and I'm sure you will find hotels, car rentals,
outfitters, etc. Don't expect any super nice hotels in town, however.
A clean place to sleep and shower, yes, but nothing really special.

When you are stocked up, head north on Rt#7 *with a good map*. If you
see water, stop and fish it. You will see many "lodges" along the
way. I can't endorse any, however. I would head as far north as the
Cisneiss River (spelling) There is a lot of water in that region
including lakes and small ponds. They all contain big brown trout.
Some of the lake have boat rentals.

If you head south of Coyhaique, the River Cochrane and the Baker River
are famous for their large browns. You should have no trouble
googling either one. Once you leave Coyhaique, there are small towns
with grocery stores where you may stock up on your supplies.

Fishing: If you go in January the black beetles will be in the trees
and drop into the rivers where they are quickly consumed by the trout.
A large beetle pattern (as big as your thumb!) made with black foam
will be your best bet. Also, a black and yellow wooly bugger worked
well in the lakes/ponds (lagos/lagoons).

See my trip report March of 08.

Good luck

Dave



Dave

I told you that I may have some ?? for you
Thanks very much
W e are gettinfg excited

Fred