Given the great trout fishing we have here in Utah and the west, in our ignorance we tended to shy away from trout fishing destinations other than what we enjoyed in our neck of the woods.  After leading a trip to Argentina and fishing with Chocolate Labs Expeditions (CLE) from San Martin de los Andes, that's all changed.  How naive we were to assume that a trout fishing adventure to South America wouldn't be an experience we wouldn't want to enjoy as often as we could.  After over a decade of traveling and organizing trips to Argentina and with CLE we now only wish we'd made our leap of faith earlier. 

Chocolate Lab Expeditions(CLE) offers some of the best fishing in all of the Patagonia region. Owners Ron and Vanessa Sorensen have been guiding and outfitting anglers in northern Patagonia since 1996 building a reputation for dependable excellence and sharing their passion for fly-fishing in their incredible part of the world. 

Vanessa's three generations of family history in San Martin has enabled CLE to access properties and establish an incredible staff of local Argentines. Ron's substantial fly-fishing guiding career starting in '91 on the Madison River, then through Mike Lawson from '92-2002, and as an independent guide until the present gives him a level of expertise in this remote part of the world that impressive. His background and knowledge brings the perfect blend to Argentina allowing he and his wife to offer a unique and personable fly-fishing experience to this prolific region of Argentina.

CLE offers a range of fishing options by utilizing a mix of public and over 260 miles of private waters on 12 local rivers, 7 estancias (fishing ranches), private leases, and various overnight camp floats. World famous rivers such as the Filo, Malleo, Chimehuin, Collon Cura, and Limay serve as the focus of their operation plus many lesser known rivers that fish well seasonally. This area of Patagonia offers very diverse types of fishing: from sight casting to rising trout on spring creeks, to stalking big browns on crystal clear mountain streams, throwing big dries on faster freestones, and fishing tactical tail waters. From the often prolific mayfly and caddis hatches of the early summer (Dec-early Feb) and fall (late March-April) to the inch worm infestation and minnow runs during mid-summer, this rich area always has something to offer the visiting angler.

Trips of any length (typically 6-10 fishing days) are custom designed for each client based on fishing preferences, trip timing, and budget. We have really enjoyed the flexibility of mixing time at the top notch estancias with the miles of private access water and the more simple but quality overnight camp trips.

The CLE team offers an enthusiastic crew of Argentine guides, who will expertly guide you through your long days on the water.  As part of your excursion enjoy great Argentine meals, wines, and a highly recommended daily siesta. They are one of the few outfitters in Argentina operating a full fleet of drift boats- which might not sound like much until you spend a day hung up on the straps and buckles of a raft.  

For Western Rivers Flyfisher our relationship with Ron, Vanessa and CLE's staff of guides has made a trip to Argentina now an annual adventure. Every year is a different and unique fishing experience and after a decade of visits given the options we're still fine tuning our travels to optimize our visits.

Besides having a great time, we've been impressed with CLE crew of hard working guides', their fly-fishing knowledge and commitment to  your fly-fishing experience.  Although the trout fishing can rival any trout fishing experience you may have enjoyed, it is fishing and fly fishing can be challenging.  Ron's guides will work hard to help you make the most of your opportunities.  The best part about them, regardless of the fishing  there just pleasant to spend the day with even when the fishing isn't going according to plan. 

Come join us on one of our shop hosted trips to Argentina or let us help you develop a customized fly-fishing trip of your own to this "Land before Time". See for yourself why we continue to migrate to Argentina and fish within the shadows of the Andes on some of the worlds most incredible trout streams and lakes. It will be an experience you won't soon forget. 

For more information or to book a trip, drop us a line at info@wrflyfisher.com or give the shop a call: (801)521-6424.