Kau Tapen Lodge – Week 13: March 25th to April 2nd, 2022

Following our fantastic past week, all had great expectations for the fishing ahead. It was especially noteworthy as we had the pleasure of hosting the CEO of Nervous Waters and his friends from Argentina along with guests from the USA and the UK. The Grande river was still dropping steadily from its previous high level and the Menendez became significantly lower and clearer as the week went on. Water temperature, especially in the mornings, was cold and techniques needed to be adjusted in order to be successful before it warmed up in the middle part of the day. 

            Robert, staying his second week with us, started out the week with a bang with a fish of just under 19lbs in our upper beats. After his multiple trophy-sized fish from the previous week, it was clear that his streak was not over yet. He would go on to hook another fish in the 18lb class among many others to his rod. 

            One pleasant surprise throughout the week was the number of hyper bright fish we continued to see. Many looked as if they had only spent days in the river and came in all size classes. The few sea-winter smaller fish that have shown up in good numbers were still around, which was great to see as they are the future of the river. At a growth rate of around three pounds per year in the ocean, it is not long before these turn into the larger fish all hope to come into contact with. Yet, bright fish in the larger size were present as well, evidenced by Marcos’s beautiful 19lber also taken from our upper beats. A fresh male of this quality is the ultimate Rio Grande trophy! Ray took a similar-sized fish, this time a hen days later, making his trip quite the success. 

        It was extra special this week to introduce a few new anglers to the sport of fly fishing. The Rio Grande is not an easy place to start from scratch, but thanks to our guides’ tutelage, both Jose and Matias were able to land their first-ever fish. Even more significant was the quality of these sea-trouts, as Jose took a very fresh 12lber and Matias landed a trophy of 16lbs not long after. For one’s introduction to fly fishing and spey casting, this is quite the achievement! 

            As we look ahead into the last week of the season, we start to reflect on the amazing quality of fishing and experience present here at Kau Tapen with more to come for the year and the future. The river looks to be in good shape despite the cold water and plenty of healthy fish, including the last runners from the ocean, are around and thriving. A bit of rain and snow is in the forecast for both the estancia and the mountains feeding the Rio Grande, which may affect the river in the coming days. Hopefully, the great fishing will continue and happy anglers can hold a few more magnificent sea-trout.

For current updates from the river, be sure to follow our social media accounts (@kautapenlodge and @nervous_waters). Thanks to all from around the world for joining us on this special fishery and we hope to see you on the water soon.

Tight Lines,

Max Kantor – Kau Tapen Guide 2021/22