As the 2025 fishing season comes to a close, it’s time to reflect on the highs and the challenges that shaped our journey, taking with us the lessons learned and the unforgettable moments that have defined another remarkable season at Kau Tapen.
We began the season in early January with low water conditions, yet the classic January run delivered in full force, bringing the Rio Grande and Menendez rivers to life. Both rivers remained productive throughout the month, despite the low levels. The clear, low water presented a delicate challenge, calling for long leaders, small flies, and light tackle. What didn’t cooperate as well, however, was the weather. The lack of significant rainfall caused the rivers to drop drastically, forcing the fish to settle into their holding spots quicker than expected. The absence of rain gave us clear skies and calm waters, but also brought about rapid shifts in the river’s behavior.
By February, the water had reached its lowest levels in years, which affected the fish’s ability to move through the system. Fishing continued with light gear, but the conditions led us to adopt more strategic approaches. Using type 3 to 6 sinking tips helped slow the swing, targeting fish that had settled deep in the pools. Despite these challenges, February emerged as our big fish month. We were treated to a remarkable 25-pound chrome male landed by Marco from Italy, along with a steady stream of fish ranging from 18 to 22 pounds each week. The mornings, as always, held the key to success, with early hours delivering some of our best action.
In March, the season’s conditions remained similar, but we began feeling the bite of colder mornings earlier than usual. As temperatures dropped, we adjusted our approach by fishing leeches during the early morning hours, effectively dealing with the cooler waters. It was a month of big colored males, those strong fish that had been holding deep in the pools for much of the season, finally becoming more aggressive as the end of the season neared.
The last weeks of the season saw much-needed rain, which allowed us to fish a broader variety of water, including pockets and small pools that had been out of reach earlier. The Menendez River continued to surprise us, delivering some of the biggest fish of the season, and making every angler eager to return for more.
As the final weeks of April rolled in, water levels dropped again, and we adapted by focusing on fishing during the sunniest parts of the day. The sun’s warmth raised the water temperatures, making the fish more active and allowing us to land some incredible catches. It was a classic Kau Tapen season, full of challenges, but also full of rewards.
Looking back, this season proved to be a testing one, with low water levels and unpredictable weather, but it was also one of growth and adaptation. As always, Kau Tapen’s sea trout fishing didn’t disappoint. The season pushed our skills to new limits, testing our patience and refining our technique. Every day on the water was an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with the river in ways that never grow old. The excitement, the challenge, and the camaraderie of the anglers who joined us made every moment unforgettable.
As we close the chapter on this season, we’re already excited and planning for the next. We can’t wait to see what new challenges and triumphs the upcoming season will bring.
Tight lines,
Nahuel Stauch – Kau Tapen Lodge Fishing Manager
