Deep in the heart of Chilean Patagonia lies a magical place called Paloma River Lodge. The surrounding majestic peaks of the Andes loom high above the nearby valleys, with their glacial mantles giving rise to the cold, rushing rivers that make this place an angler’s dream.

This region is sparsely populated, with most residents traveling by wagon or horseback. Most of the other residents are eagles, condors, ibis, giant kingfishers, parakeets, llamas, guanacos and other unique animals.

The lodges rests on the banks of the beautiful Paloma River, nestled between the river and the mountains. Catering in comfort to only four rods each week, the lodge is close to all of the best streams, rivers and mountain lakes in the Paloma Valley, with very easily accessed fishing—very little time here is spent in the vehicles—more time for fishing.

The principals in the lodge are Chilean native, Felipe Carrasco, and his American partner, Paul Kinney. Felipe was born in this area, and has been fly fishing and guiding since he was a teenager. He speaks fluent English and greatly enjoys teaching, guiding and spending time with enthusiastic clients on the river. Paul has lived in Chile since 1997, overseeing and developing two of the more well-known and luxurious lodges in Chile, and he and his Chilean wife have a true passion for fly fishing.

COST: $3250 for seven nights/six days fishing.

PRIME TIME: October through mid-April.

HOW TO GET THERE: American and Delta offer daily service to Santiago, Chile, as does Lan Chile, the Chilean national airline. All of the flights depart in the evening and arrive early in the morning at the Santiago International Airport. A one-time $100 entry fee is collected at customs. After receiving your luggage and clearing customs, you’ll be met and walk a few minutes over to the domestic terminal where you’ll connect with a 2 1/2-hour flight to Balmaceda. In Balmaceda, you will be met and transported in a private vehicle two hours to the lodge.

DETAILS: A color brochure, and references are available. You might also find our Paloma River Pre-Trip Planning and Packing Information helpful. Check out our Chile Fishing Blog to read about the fishing experience from pros and our clients.