Fishing in Chile with Roxtons

Futa lodge stands high on the river bank with an excellent view of the river. It is one of the prettiest lodges in Chile and has a uniquely warm atmosphere.

The Futa lodge has a capacity of 6 rods and is particularly cosy and comfortable. The food is wonderful with a real emphasis on local produce which means it is always fresh.

The lodge's inaccessibility through the Valle de las Escalas makes this part of the river unique, lazy horseback trails wind down to the river´s edge - a riot of Lupins and other wild flowers cover the banks of each side of this amazing river; no engines pollute the river here chemically or audibly, and time appears to have stood still. Futa is a true and total wild fishing experience.

Rods
Fishing in Patagonia's clear rivers requires rods ranging from 8ft to 9ft for 4 to 7 weight lines depending mainly on your preference. It is always worth while taking two rods just in case one breaks.

Lines
Floating lines matched to your rods weight are usually the normal choice to fish these clear rivers with a dry fly. We suggest lines from 4 weight through to 7 weight, these will cope with almost any conditions that you will encounter. Although not usually needed it is always worth have an intermediate line or sink tip cover any and all eventualities.

Nylon / Leader
Tapered trout leaders starting at 10ft in length are suitable. Your tippets do not need to exceed 5lbs breaking strain.

Flies
A selection of flies that are successful here include

• Goddards Sedge
• May Fly
• Grass Hoppers
• Red Humpies
• Royal Wulf's
• Damsel Nymphs
• Stone Flies

Please take your own fly box as well, as you will have your own favourites that you might like to try.

Other Items

• Waders
• Wading stick
• Layered clothing because of changeable weather
• Wader repair kit
• Polarized sunglasses
• Forceps / clippers
• Hand and face moisturizer

Other activities that one can do at Futa are as follows

• White-water rafting and kayaking in the Futaleufu River.
• Horse-riding through the magical coyhue forests.
• Hiking to local waterfalls.
• Bird watching.

Season
January until April.

Time Difference from GMT
- 4 hours.

Electricity
Electricity runs on a 220V current. To use your chargers and other electrical items you will need an adapter.

Currency
The official currency of Chile is the Peso but the US$ is the currency of choice in the lodge.

Tips
We suggest a gratuity of $60-$80US per day per person. All tips are evenly distributed among the guides and staff. Should you feel inclined to give a gratuity to someone personally, you are welcome to do so, this should be done outside of the general gratuity.

Visa requirements for UK citizens
None.

Medical Requirements
There are no required inoculations for travel to Chile, though you are advised to check with your doctor prior to departure regarding any vaccinations that may be recommended. If you are taking prescription medicines please ensure that you bring enough for the duration of your stay.

Insects
Biting insects in Patagoinia are as a general rule not a problem. However we do suggest that you take good repellent to prevent any irritating bites.

Futa Lodge is situated in the Valle de las Escalas on the Futaleufu River, about half way between Puerto Montt and Coyhaique, 40 minutes drive from the village of Futaleufu.

How to get there:

• From Buenos Aires there are weekly flights to Esquel. You will be met by a lodge representative, cross the border to Chile and driven to the lodge (approx 1 1/2 hours)
• By air from Santiago and Puerto Montt to Chaiten. You will be met in Chaiten and transfers to the lodge by 4WD vehicle (approx 4 hours).
• From Puerto Montt you can also charter direct to the Futaleufu airport, where you will be met by a lodge representative and driven to the lodge (approx 40 minutes).