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Kau Tapen Lodge
Rio Grande Fly Fishing

Accommodations

12 anglers

Season

January to April

Getting There

Tierra del Fuego, Arg.

The Fishing

Wade fishing

Target Species

Sea-run Brown Trout

Fishing Equipment

Sgl & dbl handed rods

Fishing Equipment

Sgl & dbl handed rods

Culinary Experience

Farm-to-table

Media Gallery

Photos & Videos

Rates

Weekly per person

Combine Your Trip

The Kautapen Group

Kau Tapen Lodge
Kau Tapen Lodge

Founded in 1984, Kau Tapen was the first lodge on the Río Grande—the birthplace of sea-run brown trout fishing and the benchmark for all that followed. Its name, in the Ona language, means “House of Fishing,” a fitting tribute to a river that produces the largest sea-runs on Earth.

With exclusive access to 25 km of the middle Río Grande and 25 km of its most productive tributary, the Menéndez, anglers enjoy exceptional variety and water management that ensures new beats every day. The rivers’ size and flow make them perfect for single, switch, and double-handed rods, from swinging streamers through classic tail-outs to presenting delicate flies on intimate channels.

Five IGFA world records have been set here, and each season adds new stories to its legend. Kau Tapen remains the ultimate blend of heritage, comfort, and the finest sea-run brown trout fishing on the planet.

VIEW BROCHURE

Why Choose Kau Tapen Lodge?

Where it all started.

  • Río Grande — the world’s premier trophy sea-run brown trout river.
  • The first lodge ever built on the Río Grande (since 1984), setting the benchmark for all that followed.
  • Average fish 7–9 lbs, with many over 20 lbs and occasional giants above 30. Five IGFA World Records have been set at Kau Tapen.
  • 25 km of private double-bank access on the Río Grande plus another 25 km on the Menéndez River, its most productive tributary.
  • Fish new water every day. Carefully managed beats, two anglers per guide, and flexible rotation between both rivers.
  • Perfect for single, switch & double-handed rods. The Grande’s broad pools and the Menéndez’s intimate channels offer every style of fishing.
  • Easy wading and natural casting lanes. Fish hold close to the banks and are always within reach.
  • Expert guiding team. A combination of seasoned locals and international professionals, rotated daily for a fresh perspective.
  • Single rooms by default. Comfort and privacy for every guest.
  • Five-star accommodations. Unmatched service & hospitality with delicious À la carte dining with locally inspired dishes and award-winning Argentine wines.
  • State-of-the-art loaner equipment available at no extra cost.
  • More than 75% of guests repeat. Proof that excellence and consistency never go out of style.

Built in 1984, Kau Tapen Lodge was designed to combine world-class fishing access with the highest level of comfort. Perfectly located near the most productive pools of the Río Grande, it accommodates up to 10 guests (occasionally 12) in en-suite single rooms to ensure privacy and relaxation.
Each room is unique—some feature king beds, others queen, and a few are furnished with two doubles—all designed with the warmth and character of a Patagonian home.
A spacious living room opens to sweeping views of the Menéndez and Río Grande valleys, centered around a stone fireplace and a well-stocked bar. Anglers enjoy access to a fully equipped fly shop offering quality rods, reels, lines, Simms apparel, and other essentials, plus a dedicated fly-tying table and two wader/gear rooms.
After a day on the river, guests can unwind in the full-service spa, featuring a jacuzzi, dry sauna, Finnish steam bath, Scottish shower, and massage room—the perfect end to a day of exceptional fishing on the Río Grande.

What time of the year should I come?

Kau Tapen lodge is situated in the middle section of The Río Grande. It has the privilege to be situated just upstream from the confluence of The Río Grande with The Río Menendez. Menendez flows from the south, fed by the cold water of the Andes range with snowmelt, and collects rainfall from a glacial basin. It is the largest tributary of the system bringing up to 30% of the water mass The Río Grande has in its lower stretch. When you spend the week fishing in Kau Tapen lodge, you will fish The Río Grande and Río Menendez as both are included in the lodge’s fishing beat rotations.

At Kau Tapen, the season is defined by several key runs of fresh fish: late October or early November (the early run), late December to early January, mid-February, and mid-March. Beyond these main pushes, fresh fish continue to enter the river on a daily basis throughout the entire season, including late March and early April, well into the fall. These fish run in significant numbers, especially following each full moon and high tide cycle. As the season progresses, new arrivals mix with fish already established in the system. For this reason, it becomes especially important to thoroughly fish the heads and tails of every pool.

JANUARY (Early Summer)

Kau Tapen Lodge starts its fishing season at the beginning of January. At that time, you can expect a strong presence of fresh fish entering the system, along with a good number of colored-up trophy fish—mainly females—from an early run. These larger fish enter the river in November and spread throughout the midsection, where Kau Tapen is located. This early run is abundant and evenly distributed across most pools, complementing the steady influx of fresh fish and creating an excellent scenario to kick off the season.

In early January, river levels are typically medium to high, with a smooth, even flow through the pools—ideal conditions that remain very safe for wading. Anglers will need to cover plenty of water and stay attentive to the subtle takes characteristic of early-season sea trout. As the month progresses, and in the absence of unusual rainfall, the river gradually drops, usually reaching its lowest levels during the first two weeks of February.

FEBRUARY & Early MARCH (Mid-Summer)

During February, the pools begin to flow slower, the water clears, and temperatures rise as this is typically the warmest month in Tierra del Fuego. These conditions call for a more delicate approach: careful wading and casting, lighter rods and lines, and longer, finer leaders. Smaller flies become the standard from the very first cast, as fish grow increasingly wary—starting with heavy lines and large-profile flies can often be counterproductive.

As the month progresses, and especially from mid-February onward, large, dark-colored males become a prominent target. They can be caught using a range of techniques and fly patterns depending on water color and temperature. During this period, their aggression increases significantly as they compete for newly arrived, egg-laden, trophy-sized females moving up from the lower river.

Toward the end of February, the first seasonal rains usually arrive. This fresh water triggers increased fish movement, with new arrivals pushing up from the lower river in significant numbers. At the same time, fish already holding within Kau Tapen’s stretch begin to shift positions, moving between pools in search of optimal holding water as the system becomes more dynamic. These rains also increase the river’s flow, a pattern that typically continues through to the end of the season in early April.

Throughout the entire season—and very much during this period—there is a constant influx of chrome-bright fresh fish, typically ranging from 5 to 20 pounds. These fish continue to enter the river in strong numbers, particularly following each full moon and high tide cycle, adding to the already established population and ensuring a steady supply of fresh, aggressive fish.

MARCH & APRIL (Fall Season)

March and April are known for producing some of the biggest fish of the season, with a higher-than-average size and very few smaller fish present. By mid-March, water temperatures begin to drop due to snowmelt from the Andes and consistently cold nights. As a result, fish activity is typically limited during the early morning and late afternoon, improving around midday and into the early afternoon as the water warms slightly.

Despite these variable conditions, this period can be among the most rewarding of the season. Fresh fish continue to push into the system in strong numbers, and what is often referred to as the “fall run” can be one of the most significant of the entire season in terms of size. By this time, the river holds a unique mix of newly arrived chrome fish and well-established, colored fish. Large males become increasingly aggressive, creating excellent fishing opportunities when conditions align. In some seasons, the river runs clear and in perfect shape; in others, it can rise quickly and carry some color. The reward, however, is well worth it—when you connect with a fish, it is very often a true trophy, the kind that stays with you for a lifetime.

Kau Tapen Lodge weeks run from Saturday to Saturday.
Guests begin their journey by flying into Buenos Aires, with most arriving in the morning. We recommend that guests fly into Ushuaia (USH, 3-hour flight.) on Friday afternoon or evening and spend the night exploring this charming city, known for its superb culinary offerings. Convenient flights are available from both Jorge Newbery Aeroparque (AEP) and Ministro Pistarini International Airport (EZE), with several departures daily.
On Saturday morning, we will meet you at your Ushuaia hotel for the approximately 4-hour drive to Kau Tapen Lodge. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with refreshing cocktails and a delicious lunch, followed by an orientation by the Kau Tapen Lodge Manager. The afternoon will feature a warm-up session by the river. At the end of your week, you’ll head back to the airport early on Saturday morning.

Location

Located in Tierra del Fuego, Kau Tapen sits on the banks of the Río Grande, the most productive sea-run brown trout fishery in the world. Since the opening of Kau Tapen Lodge in the early 1980s, the Río Grande has become a modern-day fisherman’s Cinderella story. Over the last several decades, through controlled access and strict catch-and-release regulations, catch rates have improved significantly from the early days of the fishery. While success on the river always depends on factors such as ocean conditions, tides, water levels, and other natural variables, anglers continue to enjoy consistent opportunities to connect with these remarkable sea-run brown trout. The Río Grande remains widely regarded as the finest destination in the world for this species.

The Río Grande flows from west to east, beginning in the Andes and traveling approximately 60 miles through rolling Argentine territory before reaching the Atlantic Ocean. The landscape of Tierra del Fuego is reminiscent of Wyoming or the Scottish low country, with vast open wilderness, large sheep-farming estancias, and wild herds of llama-like guanacos. Red foxes are common, and magnificent condors can often be seen soaring overhead, adding to the remote beauty of this extraordinary region.

The Fishing

What to expect on the water.

At Kau Tapen, anglers pursue the world’s largest sea-run brown trout—fish that average 7 to 9 pounds, with many exceeding 20 and the occasional giant surpassing 30. The lodge controls 25 kilometers of private double-bank access on the legendary Río Grande, along with another 25 kilometers on its most important tributary, the Río Menéndez. Both rivers offer easy wading over fine gravel and an exceptional variety of water, creating a fishery that is as diverse as it is productive.

Although they spend most of their lives in the ocean, sea-run brown trout retain many of the instincts of resident browns. They are moody, highly responsive to conditions, and demand precision. Success depends on presenting the right fly, in the right way, at exactly the right moment. One hour, a fish may take a deeply swung fly; the next, it may rise confidently to a skated pattern on the surface. This constant need to adapt is at the heart of the Kau Tapen experience.

Reading the water is essential. Fish behavior shifts with light, wind, and water levels, and anglers must adjust accordingly—varying fly choice, depth, angle, and speed until the right combination is found. Sea-run browns often hold near cut banks during the middle of the day, while in lower water they may favor the faster necks of pools. They typically move more freely during the early morning, evening, and night hours. A useful rule of thumb is “tails in the morning and heads at night,” though, as always, observation and adaptability are key. Under overcast skies, fish may spread throughout a pool, while in bright conditions they tend to position themselves more selectively.

The Río Grande itself is a medium-sized river that rewards precision and versatility. Its scale allows for a wide range of techniques, from traditional Spey presentations to dry flies and skated patterns. Conditions evolve steadily through the season, and anglers who remain attentive and flexible are consistently rewarded.

The Río Menéndez, the Grande’s most important tributary, adds a complementary dimension to the fishery. Smaller and more technical, it is typically fished with single-hand or light switch rods and rewards a more delicate approach. Early in the season, it often runs at normal to low levels yet already holds a strong population of fish from the early runs as well as fresh arrivals, offering excellent opportunities from the outset.

As the season progresses, rains raise water levels and trigger movement, and the river continues to produce throughout its length. Its structure and shallower profile create fast, powerful fights, and it can provide outstanding fishing when the Grande becomes more challenging. In recent seasons, a number of Kau Tapen’s largest fish have been caught here during the second half of the year.

Together, the Río Grande and the Río Menéndez create a balanced and dynamic fishery. Constantly changing conditions, multiple runs of fish, and a wide range of techniques combine to offer both consistency and the ever-present chance of a true trophy. It is a place where every cast carries anticipation—and where, at any moment, the fish of a lifetime may be waiting.

Guests will leave the Lodge around 6:45 am after breakfast and will fish till around noon. Following lunch and a siesta (the duration depends on the season), guests return to the river in the late afternoon and fish until dark.
Fishing hours will change slightly depending on the time of year, conditions of the river & weather. Upon your return to the lodge, dinner and cocktails will be served according to the season — typically around 11:30 p.m. in January and early February, and gradually earlier later in the season, between 10:00 and 11:30 p.m.

The first Brown Trout were stocked in Tierra del Fuego by English angler John Goodall in 1935. Shipped from Puerto Montt, Chile, 60,000 Salmo trutta eggs survived the arduous journey to be planted on the Candelaria and McLennan rivers, both tributaries of the Rio Grande.

These fish eventually found their way to the sea, likely attracted by the rich nourishment found in the brackish estuaries. Sea-run brown trout now complete annual migratory cycles similar to other salmonids, spawning during the fall in freshwater. Juveniles remain in the river for up to four years until their first ocean migration, where they will feed and grow for about 6 months before their first return to freshwater, weighing approximately 3 to 6 pounds. Researchers have found sea-run brown trout that have spawned more than 6 times. A trout that has completed 4 cycles of returning to freshwater can weigh more than 20 pounds. The frequency with which they return to freshwater is also an indicator that the fish face few threats. It’s also an example of the benefits of catch and release.

Fishing equipment

Kau Tapen Lodge provides anglers with high-quality fly fishing loaner equipment.

Fly-Fishing Equipment

The suggestions that follow are drawn from over four decades’ experience fishing the Rio Grande under a wide variety of conditions.

RODS
Two Handed & Switch Rods
        • 7-8wt – 2 Handed 12-14 ft. rods 
        • 4-7wt Switch Rods – 11-12 ft. rods 

The Rio Grande features a natural design an instream architecture perfectly suited for Spey rods. Mending and controlling the line is also easier with a 2-hander. Use 7- to 8-weights from 12 to 14 feet long. If you’re new to Spey casting, our guides are expert instructors and will help you learn quickly. Lighter switch rods are also increasingly popular and allow anglers to cast a comfortable line with less effort, particularly on windy days. 

When the Río Grande experiences low water levels, or when fishing the Río Menéndez—a small to medium-sized river—consider bringing lighter Switch rods, as they are smoother and easier to handle under these conditions. Switch rods are classified by weight number, like other rods, but are also rated in grams and/or grains. 

In these situations, rods that can comfortably cast lines in the range of 18–20 grams (278– 310 grains) tend to perform exceptionally well, allowing for smoother, more delicate presentations in lower water. 

Single Handed Rods 
        • 7-8wt – Single Handed 9.6-10 ft. rod 


Single-handers in 7- to 8-weights—and up to 10 feet long—can also be effective in lightwind conditions on the Grande or for technical, close-range nymphing on the Rio Menendez tributary. Longer rods make casting easier with the normal downstream southwest wind, while an 8 weight helps you to drive your line into or across the wind when necessary. Given the Rio Grande’s moderate flow and generally even gravel bottom, you’ll find an 7 or 8 capable of doing battle with even the river’s largest sea trout (15 to 25+ pounds), while it ensures the most action with smaller sea trout (4 to 10 pounds).

REELS

All reels should be equipped with at least 100yrds of 20 lbs backing. 

Rods and reels ride assembled on top of the vehicle to and from the river, and between beats each day, often in dusty conditions. To protect your valuable reels, bring neoprene or some type of close-fitting reel cover that can be easily removed.

LINES

For Two Handed Rods

        • Regular Belly Scandi (or Skagit if preferred) floating line
        • Variety of Tips: Float, Intermediate and Sink (T-8, T-11, T-14, T-17) 7-15 ft. 

To be well prepared for Tierra del Fuego, anglers should include at least three lines to accommodate varying water levels and wind conditions. Weight-Forward fly lines are generally used on the Rio Grande. 

Floating lines are most useful during low water conditions and in the early morning and evening hours, when sea-run brown trout feed near the surface. Integrated sinking-tip lines also work great, while intermediate lines are also effective in some conditions.

When using Spey rods, we primarily fish with Scandi heads, ranging from floating to fastsinking (S4). Generally speaking, Scandi lines offer smoother presentations, while Skagit lines perform better on very windy days or when casting larger flies. Most shooting heads can also be paired with sink tips, allowing you to target different depths effectively. RIO produces several versatile lines that work well with both Scandi and Skagit setups. Be sure to bring a selection of sinking tip leaders for these lines—Floating (F), Hover/Intermediate (H/I), Intermediate/Sink 3 (I/S3), and Sink 3/Sink 5 (S3/ S5)—to adapt to changing river conditions.

Depending on your rod, use shooting heads in the 350–600 grain range for optimal performance. Even experienced anglers often find their running line snarls when buffeted by wind. Prevailing southwest winds can be “harnessed” by roll casting or spey-casting, which eliminates the need to back cast—difficult to do with a trailing wind. We found that a simple roll cast carries even large streamers 35 to 50 feet across and downstream, or far enough to cover the holding lies. Weight-forward lines can be rolled effectively by stripping and shooting line during the cast.

For Switch Rods

        • 4 to 7wt Front Floating Taper Head (depending on rod weight)
        • Variety of Tips: Float, Intermediate and Sink (S2, S3, S4, S5, S6 & S7) 5-10 ft.

Switch rods (as well as Spey rods) are classified by line weight. Generally speaking, the line weight of a rod is determined by the grain or gram weight (different units of measurement) that the rod is designed to handle for the head line.

The ideal type of Switch rod to use depends on the angler’s skill level, as well as river conditions (low or high water) and weather (calm versus windy). The Río Grande can be effectively covered, even at medium to low water levels, with Switch rods in the 4- to 7-weight range, or rods that can handle 278 to 420 grains of head line. These heads should be paired with interchangeable tips in varying sink rates— typically 7 to 10 feet long—to adapt to changing water depths and flow conditions.

For Single Handed Rods

        • 7 or 8wt Floating Line (for skating flies or nymphing on your single hand rod)
        • 7 or 8wt Interchangeable tip fly line
        • 7 or 8wt Sink (200-400gr lines)

For anglers who prefer using single-handed rods, consider including at least three lines to accommodate varying water levels and wind conditions. Weight-forward fly lines are generally used on the Rio Grande and Rio Menendez. Floating lines are most useful during low-water conditions and in the early morning and evening hours, when sea-run brown trout feed near the surface. Integrated sinking- tip lines (200 to 400 grain) also work great. And intermediate sinking lines can be effective in some conditions. Also consider bringing some of the new interchangeable-tip fly lines for single-handed rods. These lines are extremely versatile and perform well in all conditions. They come with a range of interchangeable tips offering different sink rates—from Intermediate to Sink 6 (6–7 inches per second).

LEADERS & TIPPET
      • 10 to 20 lbs – 9’-12 ft. Knotless Tapered Leaders (Qty: 4)
      • Tippet Spools: 8, 10, 12, 16 & 20 lbs

Experience on the Rio Grande indicates that sea run brown trout are not particularly leader shy. While reasonable stealth should be exercised, your chief concern is to bring monofilament in sizes that will turn over the array of fly sizes and patterns you’ll be using.

While fishing sinking lines, a few feet of straight (not tapered) monofilament will do fine. Maxima Ultra-green is a good choice as it has plenty of stretch, a factor worth considering when the sea run of a lifetime hits your fly! For floating lines it’s good to use knotless tapered leaders from 9 to 12 feet long (10 to 20 lbs).

FLIES

Kau Tapen Lodge offers a wide selection of flies for purchase (approx. from $4 to $8.50 per fly). However, our guides will provide all the flies you need at no additional cost.

If you wish to bring your own flies, please be sure to pack a good variety. Sea-run brown trout are notoriously unpredictable—perhaps the only constant in their preferences is a penchant for black. The trout that eagerly takes your small salmon pattern one day may demand a fly with white rubber legs the next! Historically, most Río Grande fish were caught on large streamers, likely because those patterns were most commonly used. However, during low-water conditions, many large sea trout are taken on smaller wet flies, nymphs, and dry flies in sizes 6 to 12. We recommend bringing a diverse selection of flies in different patterns and sizes, and changing them frequently when a particular combination isn’t producing results. Your guide will help you determine the most effective options based on light conditions, water levels, and daily fish behavior.

Please note that barbless hooks are strongly encouraged. 

Here are some of the most productive flies to use on both the Río Grande and the Río Menéndez:

        • Collie Dog tube flies (3 1/2 – 4 1/2” long, both aluminum and copper bodies, with hard
        • plastic tubing and #4 wide-gape hooks)
        • Sunray Shadow in different sizes.
        • Bunny Leech, Zonker, Woolly Bugger (black/ olive), articulated string leech types, with electric blue flash, intruders (#2-4, wide gap and short shank hooks). Favorite color variations for the Rio Grande and the Menendez include Black/Chartreuse,
        • Blue/Chartreuse, Black/Silver, or simply chartreuse.
        • Peacock (now a staple on Rio Grande, tied on #2-4 hooks)
        • Girdle or Yuk Bug rubber legs (#4-12)
        • Bitch Creek Nymphs (orange and black, #4-12)
        • Bead Head Nymphs, Prince, Hare’s Ear (#6- 12)
        • Traditional Atlantic Salmon flies
        • Bombers or other waking dry flies (#4-8 natural deer hair, black & green), for use drifted or with a Portland hitch
        • Green Machine (both brown hackled & white hackled green machine work fine)

Include 1- to 2-inch tube flies if you have them, as tubes can be effective on the Rio Grande. Also, take any large dark trout or salmon fly in which you have confidence. Fishing a fly that has worked for you in the past, and in which you have confidence in is half the battle.

Note: Larger streamers should be weighted tied on heavy hooks with good gapes. Treble & Double hooks are not allowed on the Rio Grande.

Culinary Experience​

At Nervous Waters, our goal is to deliver a true taste of Argentina.

Our kitchens come to life through the use of fresh and regionally representative meats and products. By combining these elements, we create delicious flavors and varied textures that harbor hidden stories and share dining traditions with each plate. We have curated a top-notch team of experienced Argentine and international chefs, trained in both classic and avant-garde culinary techniques at each of our lodges.

Each meal is prepared with an artisan’s touch and influenced by the earthiness of the surrounding landscape. Sustainability is at the heart of our cuisine and a true connection to nature runs through every dish. To top it off, our guests enjoy each meal in our beautifully designed lodge dining rooms and outdoor lunch experiences. Chefs prepare every dish from scratch to be served at a minute’s notice. Freshness is paramount and perfecting the flavor is our key to success.

All our beef comes from Aberdeen Angus and Hereford steers. It is grass-fed cattle from our Pampas. We carefully select our suppliers, which guarantees the high quality, flavor, and tenderness of our meat. You will enjoy meat cooked on the fire and in several different ways in our lodges and in the field.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day in our lodges. Choices stretch from local free-range Eggs Benedict to organic and healthy breakfast options. We change our menu daily to keep things fresh. Later in the day, our superb lunch and dinner menus are paired with some of Argentina’s—and the world’s—best wines; Bodega Catena Zapata.

In addition to our focus on fresh food with organic origins, we also celebrate our Argentine heritage with a wine partnership that brings truly world-class vintages to our lodges. Our wide selection of finest wines, the best Argentine Malbec from the Mendoza region, and a large variety of other grape selections, are served by a knowledgeable team. We feel that the food we present and the wines we serve should mirror the sporting opportunities we offer—and be the finest available.

At Kau Tapen Lodge, our kitchen is characterized by both classic preparations and modern flavors, offering local and worldwide specialties in a cozy and contemporary setting. No Kau Tapen stay would be complete without enjoying our legendary Asado, like our famous Patagonian Lamb cooked gaucho-style over the open flame, paired with a table of fresh grilled vegetables, salads, and, of course, our house special Chimichurri!

We specialize in creating meals that you will remember for years to come. Fresh over roasted vegetables and baked desserts are the perfect way to warm up during those cold and windy Tierra del Fuego days. Mere miles separate our lodge from the sea, and you’d be remiss if you missed out on our ocean-fresh seafood offerings including King Crab, savory Sea Bass, Black Hake, and freshly plucked mussels. Fresh homemade pasta dishes are always available on our menu and rotate daily.

Of course, every Nervous Water’s meal features our decadent desserts prepared by our in-house pastry chefs. Favorites include homemade ice creams and sorbets, fresh baked cookies, seasonal baked fruit, and rich cakes.

RATES 2027

Season: December 26th, 2026 – April 17th, 2027

* Prices are in US$ and per person

* Dec 26 - Jan 9

$ $ 13,950
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* Jan 9 - Mar 20

$ $ 14,950
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* Mar 20 - Apr 17

$ $ 12,950
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Rates are based on 7 nights and 6,5 days fishing, & include single room (subject to availability) & shared guide.
Non-angler: $650 per night per person

* Saturday to Saturday weeks include: 1 night at our Delta Eco Lodge (shared rooms), with one day of guided dorado fishing (subject to availability; first-come basis) with lunch, dinner and breakfast included – open bar.
Does not include the ground transfer from Ezeiza intl. airport (EZE) to Marina and Marina to Aeroparque domestic airport (AEP).

Included

  • Transfer from Río Grande airport (RGA) to the lodge
  • Accommodations based on single room (subject to availability)
  • All meals, wines, beer and local and international spirits
  • Professional guide services (2 anglers per guide/truck)
  • Loaner fishing equipment (Rods, reels & lines)

Not included

  • International & domestic airfares
  • Round trip transfer from Ushuaia to the Lodge
  • Fishing Licenses
  • Laundry service
  • Overnight at Ushuaia on arrival date
  • Gratuities for guides and house staff

Video Gallery

Kau Tapen Lodge - Accommodation
How to fish Rio Grande
Rio Menendez
KauTapen Lodge Fishing

Photo Gallery

Our other Sporting Destinations

With more than 30 family-owned, high-end sporting lodges across Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Mexico & The Bahamas, The Kautapen Group brings together a lifetime of experience dedicated to fly fishing, wingshooting, and big-game hunting. Through Nervous Waters, David Denies Bird Hunting, and Red Stag Patagonia, we deliver best-in-class guiding, authentic hospitality, and the consistency that comes only from operating our lodges under our own ownership and uncompromising standards. Each experience reflects our commitment to excellence, conservation, and the values that have guided our family for more than four decades.

Double down on your sporting adventures and experience all The Kautapen Group has to offer by combining your stay with another of our hunting or fishing lodges.

Interested in this Lodge? Let's plan your trip

What Our Guests Think
About Us

I wanted to offer the following comments about my week at Kau Tapen. In one word: SUPERB. There was no detail, regardless of how minute, that was not dealt with promptly, professionally, and with outstanding results.  All of my flight arrangements were great, the Alvear was, as usual, wonderful, and Kau Tapen was the single finest fishing lodge I have ever visited.  The guides: Matthew, Santi, Gaston (head guide), Max, Andrei, and Diego were all to a man the ultimate professionals; Carolina & Alejandro, lodge managers, have created a smoothly running machine; the house staff anticipated your needs before you asked; and finally, the cuisine rated at least one Michelin Star.
 
 Finally thank you both; all your help was first-class.
 Best regards
Steve
We´ve been to many fishing lodges all over the world, and this lodge and fishing experiences ranks among the best.
William L.USA
Just had a great week at Kau Tapen. Fish, food, wine and lovely people – the Lodge staff and Guides were terrific. The chef excellent. The guides have a great tradition of seeing you to the airport at the end of a week-that means a lot. They are really passionate about their jobs.
Jamie OliverUK
It was a great privilege to fish Kau Tapen. The lodge was excellent and a great treat to be there. Warm regards,
Ann C.NY
I have never experienced such a comfortable and luxurious fishing lodge as Kau Tapen and find it hard to believe that there could be another anywhere which would come close in terms of hospitality, fine food and relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The whole team had a great time and were truly grateful for the efforts made by yourselves and your team to make us feel so at home and to look after us so well. The guides were excellent; a mix of characters and experience but all committed to helping us catch fish and have a great time while doing so – this was appreciated by all. I hope to make it back sometime as the experience was too good to make it a once in a lifetime trip. In the meantime, have a good rest of season and again thank you. Warm regards,
Stuart H.
A lovely lodge, very well run. Perfect staff, outstanding guides and excellent food and wines.
Jacques M.France
All aspects of my Kau Tapen experience were excellent. I cannot come up with anything to complain about, and I will remember Kau Tapen for a long long time… Especially I am grateful to Matias and Gaston, my guides. Just spending time by a river like Rio Grande with true fly-fishing enthusiasts like them… And if you then add the monster trout and the atmosphere of the “House of fishing” I could not get closer to my fly-fishing heaven.
Bjorn H.Norway
I really tried hard to find some improvements upon service, guides, management, etc. - but I could not find anything! (Maybe: more rain and snow in winter to have more water in the river ... haha). I really want to say thank you for the wonderful week and for your great hospitality
 
Hope to see you next year again, All the best,
Gerald
The overall experience was truly outstanding.  The guides were terrific (great people to spend time with even when the fishing was slow).  Service and attention to detail were great, the food was truly world class.  Virtually every aspect of the experience except for the number of larger fish (which can be directly attributed to my lack of ability with a spey rod and low water, neither of which are matters over which you have any control) exceeded my expectations. Sincerely, I really want to say thank you for the wonderful week and for your great hospitality
 
Hope to see you next year again, All the best,
Bruce W.
I wanted to share this note with you all about the trip. The Kau Tapen staff has been getting excellent reports all season and here is another from a man who has been to the lodge over 20 times. Thank you so much and again, well done to all. Sincerely, I really want to say thank you for the wonderful week and for your great hospitality
 
Hope to see you next year again, All the best,
Hank
Best guides – exceptional. Best organization, best food & service. Sincerely, I really want to say thank you for the wonderful week and for your great hospitality
 
Hope to see you next year again, All the best,
William S.USA
Overall, the experience was an excellent one throughout. I caught my biggest ever brown trout! (18 lbs.)
John S.UK
Top rate personal service and a lovely & friendly atmosphere.
Linda M.UK
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