23/01/08 - TDF - Strong winds and cold spells but a cracking start with a 23lber

The season in Rio Grande has got underway and already we have been reminded as to why we look forward to it so much. It has been windy which is to be expected in Tierra del Fuego and cold weather has heralded the start of the season but it is warming up to around 53 degrees F. This past week has seen the river drop and it is at present very clear with plenty of fish in the pools.

Many fish caught during the week were over the 15lbs mark with most fishermen landing three to four fish each per day but as ever, many more were lost. The largest caught this week was a superb 23lbs fish by John Pendleton.

As a result of the lower water and its clarity, the lines that they are using are a 24 foot sink-tip line weighing 200. However, experience tells us that it only takes a day or two of rain in the Andes to change the water levels and our advice is still to take a range of lines to cope with any situation as conditions can change very quickly.

The most effective flies have been the old favourites such as EMB Rubber Legs, Olive & Black Rubber Legged Woolly B's (computer filters don't like its full title!) and B' Creeks in varying sizes.

The start of the season is always an exciting time and we are confident that we can expect an excellent couple of months ahead. There are very few spaces left for the rest of the season but if you are interested in experiencing this fabulous fishing please contact Charlie White or Sarah Chamberlain on +44 1488 689 701 for further details.