Lowdown

  • Established

    November 2021

  • Owner

    Jorge Trucco and Joaquin Lynch - Patagonia Outfitters

  • Manager

    Patagonia Outfitters

  • Tel

    +18327179060

  • Open

    Jan-Apr, Nov-Dec

  • Nightly Rates (per adult)*

    $1,050

  • Minimum Stay

    4 days

  • Maximum Guests

    12

  • Works with travel agents?

    Yes

  • Great For

    Peace & quiet

  • Memberships

    Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Outfitters
* Rates will vary based on Season and Accommodation selection. Please contact the ranch directly for Date Request, Availability and exact Rate quote/proposal

Patagonia Outfitters offers hosted trips to a wide variety of incredible lodges, depending on what you're looking for from your fly fishing vacation.

Estancia Pilolil, the newest of their collection of lodges, is the premier destination for fly fishing adventures in northern Patagonia.

Boasting 10 miles of the most productive stretches of the famous and scenic Aluminé River, dozens of other excellent fisheries are within easy striking distance of the lodge.

The Estancia Pilolil program is the brainchild of Patagonia Outfitters' co-owner, Jorge Trucco, a legend and one of the most respected names in Argentine fly fishing.

Jorge has assembled a talented, seasoned crew of professional guides, lodge staff and chefs who are committed to offering a world-class Patagonia fly fishing experience.

Estancia Pilolil is a private 23,230 acre working ranch that borders 10 miles of the west bank of the Aluminé River, one of the most the prolific trout rivers in Argentina, Patagonia.

Additionally, the ranch features a private fishery, 19 kilometers (14.4 miles) of the Nahuel Mapi Spring Creek, a gem of a fishery.

This is not just another fishing lodge; this is one of the finest fly fishing retreats in all Patagonia, featuring exceptional lodging, cuisine, service, staff, equipment, guides and of course, fishing!

From the estancia guests will have quick and easy access to a variety of different fisheries.

Aside from the two on the estancia, the Aluminé River and Nahuel Mapi Spring Creek, options include the Lower Malleo, Quillen, Malalco, Pulmari, Collon Cura and the Chimehuin.

Estancia Pilolil can also be easily combined with other regional fly fishing estancias, including San Huberto, Tipiliuke, Tres Rios, Arroyo Verde and Quemquemtreu.

Good time to go

The fishing season runs from the beginning of November to the end of April.

Children at the Lodge

Great for children aged 12 and over

Unfortunately we only allow children aged 12 and over. If the entire lodge (12 people) is booked for one group, then there is no age limit.

Activities are not supervised.

Activities

hiking, picnics, floating

Environmental & Social Practices

Environment

Effective waste management is crucial for our establishment. We employ various strategies to minimize waste, including recycling programs. Additionally, our composting initiatives transform food waste into valuable resources for local agriculture. We also refrain from using plastic bottles along the river.

History

This distinctive family ranch derives its name from an ancient local community located a few kilometers downstream the Aluminé River.

Pilolil' translates to 'holed stone' in the Mapuche language, referencing a unique rock formation from the Quaternary period.

This formation features towers, caves and natural bridges, dominating a section of the Aluminé River.

The rich legacy and history of Estancia Pilolil trace back to the late nineteenth century.

Your Manager, Patagonia Outfitters

Co-Owner, Jorge Trucco: Argentinian native Jorge pursued his passion for fly fishing from a young age. He grew up with the other legends, guiding and deeply connecting with some of the most famous; including Lefty Kreh and Mel Kreiger. These friendships evolved into 'mutual admiration', elevating Jorge’s status to industry leader across North and South America.

Your manager

Lowdown

  • Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing

  • Types of water

    Lakes, Rivers

  • Rivers you can fish on

    The Aluminé .

  • Types of Fish

    Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout.

  • Fishing Experience Level

    Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced

  • Guided Fishing Included in rates

  • Unguided Fishing not available

  • You can borrow

    Rods, Reels, Boots, Waders, Fishing Nets.

  • You can buy

    Rods, Flies, Reels, Boots, Hats, Waders, Fishing Nets.

  • Bring your own

    Rods, Flies, Reels, Boots, Hats, Waders, Fishing Nets.

The Setting

Estancia Pilolil, a 23,000-acre private estancia, is perfectly situated in the heart of the region and is conveniently perched on the west bank of the scenic Aluminé River. 

The surrounding Patagonian landscape is nothing short of breathtaking, comprising vast open spaces and incredibly unique, scenic rock formations amidst the gently rolling hills, canyons and outcrops. 

The Fishing

Estancia Pilolil is among the premier destinations for fly fishing adventures in the heart of northern Patagonia, Argentina.

Guests have exclusive access to the 23,000 acre estancia with 10 miles of river frontage.

Guests also enjoy direct access to the best stretches of the Aluminé River, and are located very close to even more great fishing on countless nearby rivers, creeks and lakes.

The Aluminé is famous for its incredible hatches and dry fly fishing, while nymphs and streamer fishing can also produce very large rainbow and brown trout.

The riverbanks are lined with willows, providing ideal habitat for both aquatic and terrestrial insects. It is a spectacularly beautiful river featuring panoramic landscapes set amongst vivid canyon walls.

There are daily options for both floating in drift boats or rafts, or wade fishing the countless riffles, pools and runs of this fantastic fly fishing river.

Lowdown

  • Enjoy

    Gourmet, Ranch-style, Health oriented

  • Meals served

    family style, meals roll with days activities, everyone eats together

  • Alcohol

    BYOB, wine provided with dinner, available for purchase, wine cellar

  • Enjoy dining in

    nature settings, dining room (casual attire), bar & grille, lounge

  • You'll definitely love

    ranch-raised beef, fresh daily bread, fresh daily desserts

  • Dietary restrictions catered for

    lactose intolerant, vegans, vegetarians, Gluten free, other

Our culinary philosophy is grounded in the celebration of local, sustainable and exceptional ingredients, and each dish is a result of thoughtful reflection and extensive study.

We meticulously time our courses, treating the very best ingredients with utmost respect and preparing them with precision.

To create these culinary delights, we source only the finest ingredients from local farms and regional producers in our beloved Patagonia.

Our strong partnerships with local farmers and producers are fundamental to our culture and overarching philosophy.

Within our kitchen, we value every voice. Our environment encourages creativity, originality and a commitment to high-level execution.

This collaborative spirit allows us to craft dishes with passion, pride and personality, and led by our skilled chefs, we ensure that every meal is not only a sensory delight, but also a masterpiece that marries modern culinary techniques with the authentic flavors of Argentina.

Guest Favourites

  • Argentine Asados (Barbecue)
  • Patagonian Lamb

Wines

Our curated assortment of premium wines includes the finest Argentine Malbec from our Mendoza region, as well as a diverse array of other grape varietals.

Our skilled team is dedicated to providing an exceptional wine service.

Your Chef, Yolvi

Meet our chef, Yolvi. Originally from Peru, he now resides in Argentina. Yolvi brings exceptional talent to the table, consistently delivering culinary excellence. We all hold great admiration for Yolvi and his delectable creations!

Lowdown

  • Address

    RN40 km 2232
    San Martin de los Andes
    Neuquén
    8370
    Argentina

  • Remote Location

    Yes

  • Elevation

    3000 ft

Nearest Town - San Martin de los Andes, Patagonia

San Martin de los Andes, Patagonia has a population of 60000 (approx), and is situated 53 miles / 45 mins from the Ranch.

Facilities in San Martin de los Andes, Patagonia include: grocery store, pharmacy, church, school, post office, medical clinic, hospital, bank, atm, gas station, museum.

For shopping San Martin de los Andes, Patagonia offers: small hometown necessity shops, boutique shops.

Ranch shuttle

Included in the rate free of charge

Nearest Airports

Chapelco (CPC), San Martin de los Andes

Distance

53 miles / 45 mins

Ranch shuttle

Included in the fishing rate

Bariloche, Bariloche

Distance

165 miles / 3 hours

Ranch shuttle

$300 per direction, per truck for 2

Private Air Travel

Nearest location(s)

San Martin de los Andes

Travel by

Helicopter, Airplane

Distance

53 miles

Ranch shuttle

Yes, free of charge from local airport San Martin de los Andes

Lowdown

  • Nightly Rates (per adult)*

    $1,050

  • Nightly Rates (non-rider)

    $950

  • Minimum Stay

    4 days

  • Preferred Arrival Day

    Any day is fine

  • Preferred Departure Day

    Any day is fine

  • Style of accommodation

    Ranch rustic

  • Packages available

    4 night, 5 night, 6 night, 1 week
* Rates will vary based on Season and Accommodation selection. Please contact the ranch directly for Date Request, Availability and exact Rate quote/proposal

Patagonia Outfitters: Estancia Pilolil can cater for up to 12 guests. See below for details and indicative rates.

Lodge | Estancia

Rates (Per Person)*

$1,050
* Rates will vary based on Season and Accommodation selection. Please contact the ranch directly for Date Request, Availability and exact Rate quote/proposal

Rates (Additional Info)

The nightly rate includes: 

Accommodations at the lodge

All meals

Drinks (including wine, beer and liquor)

Local airport transportation

Fishing license

Fishing gear

Professional guide per every two anglers.

Minimum Stay

3 nights

Description

Estancia Pilolil accommodates up to 10 guests in five double rooms with private bathrooms and two cozy living rooms. 

Rooms

5

Bathrooms

Private bathroom

Booking Policy

BOOKING CONDITIONS:

A 50% deposit is required to confirm and secure your dates.

Balance is due 90 days before arrival.

Included in your stay

meals, activities, ranch shuttle, lodging, tax, drinks (including wine, beer and liquor), local airport transportation, fishing license, professional guide per every two anglers

Extras

Tax

International and domestic flights Gratuities for guides and staff Phone calls or laundry services In-out transfers to Bariloche Airport Transfers and hotels in Buenos Aires Travel Insurance

Gratuity

At the discretion of each passenger

Massage

Massage can be arranged with the lodge and paid on-site upon request.

Yoga

Yoga can be arranged with the lodge and paid on-site upon request.

Guided Fly Fishing

Included in the rate

Other

INCLUDED IN THE RATE: Fly fishing license for Neuquen Province All food and drinks at both lodges and on the river with fine wines, beer and open bar. Professional fishing guides (1 guide per every two fishermen) All ground transfers between fishing areas Fly fishing gear Wi-Fi at the lodges Private transfers in Patagonia as required by itinerary

Lowdown

  • Communications

    Wireless Internet/Wifi.

Onsite

Water based Activities

river floating

Local Attractions

Fly fishing

Non-anglers activities (not included; can be requested and paid on-site):


Horseback riding

Easy hikes around the property

A visit to the town of San Martin de los Andes.

Distance

53 miles miles / 45 mins

Ranch shuttle

Free ground transfers between fishing areas

Highs

  • Patagonia Outfitters offers hosted trips to a wide variety of incredible lodges, depending on what you're looking for from your fly fishing vacation. Estancia Pilolil, the newest of their collection of lodges, boasts 10 miles of the most productive stretches of the famous and scenic Aluminé River, and dozens of other excellent fisheries are within easy striking distance of the lodge.
  • Taking a hosted trip with Patagonia Outfitters means they will take care of absolutely everything – your only concern will be what to pack! This high-end service has attracted repeat guests and many celebrities have chosen Patagonia Outfitters, too.
  • Patagonia Outfitters offers the finest English-speaking guides, a choice of incredible lodges, excellent service, top-notch equipment and most importantly, access to the finest rivers in the Patagonia region.
  • The Pilolil Lodge, also a working ranch, is perched along the banks of the Aluminé and offers deluxe comfort, including incredible cuisine, fine Argentine wines and five-star service.
  • The Estancia is also a wonderful place for non-angling guests to enjoy while the anglers head to the water; there are daily options for horseback rides, plenty of stunning hiking routes, sightseeing and shopping in the nearby towns, or simply relaxing with a good book.

Lows

  • Be aware that the fishing season at Estancia Pilolil runs from the beginning of November to the end of April, so if you're looking outside these dates, it might not be the best time for the fish.

Visitor Reviews

Dont just take our word for it, see what visitors like you say...

So glad to have visited

We have really enjoyed being at Estancia Pilolil with Patagonia Outfitters, beautiful area, lovely food and gracious hosts. We have all had a wonderful time and are so glad to have visited. Thank you for making us all feel welcome and for sharing this beautiful part of the world with us.