Our first season at the Futa Lodge has come to an end and we are happy to report that all has been spectacular in this magical valley.  The Futaleufú river was at a great level (low) all summer and the water was very clear. These conditions were optimum for the dry fly fishing, although the streamer fishing was productive as well, especially for the bigger fish.

Once again, Futa proved its uniqueness for anglers and non anglers

We had a good variety of clients from South America, North America and Europe; anglers and non-anglers. One of the special things about this lodge is there are plenty of activities for non-anglers such as  horseback riding and hiking to some of the amazing lookout points in the “Las Escalas” valley or spending a relaxing afternoon in our wood burning hot tub adjacent the river. For the most adventurous, The Futaleufu is the world’s premiere whitewater rafting, boasting one Class IV-V rapid after the other.

Challenges of fishing at Futa Lodge

In low water the most common way to catch the rainbows is with light tackle and tiny flies. This is easier said than done though; most guests take about a half day adjusting to the delicate presentation necessary to get these cruisers to eat. It can be deceiving when you get to a pool and there are many fish feeding in crystal clear water on the surface but your line isn’t getting a bite.  These fish won’t eat unless a perfect 30ft cast is made, leading the fish as it moves from right to left. Fortunately our skilled guides are there to help and anyone can get the hang of it with a little effort and a lot of patience.  This style of fishing can be very rewarding and makes for great sport. The browns lurk low under the brush and trees along the edges which are attacked with big streamers and terrestrial foam flies. This is more of a crude technique than the light tackle of the rainbows but just as exciting and takes can be quite spectacular.

The numbers that sum up a great season

The average size of rainbows was 18 inches with some reaching 24 inches.  These fish are very powerful living in the mighty Futaleufu.  A guest on my boat from the U.S. hooked a 17 inch rainbow and got taken to his backing twice- impressive for a smaller size fish.

The browns ranged greatly in size; from 16 inches, a common size found swimming in a gentle dead arm or side chute of the main river, to a 28 inch 8 to 10 pound hog found on the main river. The Futa also holds an occasional sea run brown trout which run with the Chinook and Atlantic salmon.

Reasons Why you shouldn't miss another season at Futa Lodge

By Brian McKnight