Welcome to Kau Tapen Lodge in Argentina!
Wildside Adventures Travel Service invites you to explore the most iconic fly fishing destination in all of Argentina, Kau Tapen Lodge. Founded in 1984, Kau Tapen was the first lodge built on the Río Grande and remains one of the most revered names in the world of fly fishing. The name means “House of Fishing” in the Ona language and for hundreds of anglers, it truly is.
Located in the heart of Tierra del Fuego’s sprawling landscape, Kau Tapen gives anglers access to the most productive pools on the river. Sea-run brown trout up to 25 pounds are not just possible, they’re expected. Shallow wading and short casting distances make this ideal for both single and two-handed rods, with guides who know every stretch of water by heart.
Whether skating a bomber across the surface or dropping a nymph along a grassy bank, each cast here is a chance at a fish you’ll never forget.
Protect Your Adventure with Travel Insurance! 🛡️
Protect Your Adventure with Travel Insurance!
Why Kau Tapen Lodge is a Must Fish
The Río Grande is world-renowned for its sea-run brown trout, and Kau Tapen gives you front-row access to its most productive pools. Here’s what sets this trip apart:
- Massive Trout, Legendary Waters
Target some of the largest sea-run browns on Earth, with many fish averaging 10–15 pounds and trophies exceeding 20 pounds. - Unmatched Access to Prime Pools
Located in the heart of the river’s watershed, Kau Tapen provides access to the best private beats on the Río Grande—shallow wading, short casting, and consistent action. - Hosted by Joe Rossi + Top Guides
This hosted adventure pairs Joe’s experience with some of the best guides in Tierra del Fuego, ensuring every angler gets a personalized, unforgettable week on the water.
Whether you’re chasing your fish of a lifetime or returning to a place that already feels like home, Kau Tapen is the crown jewel of Patagonia fly fishing.
Your Home on the Río Grande: Kau Tapen Lodge
Kau Tapen is more than a fishing lodge—it’s a legacy. Set in a restored mansion-like estancia, the lodge offers the perfect blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort. Ten private rooms, five-star dining, a full bar, a dedicated wader room, and sweeping views of the valley all await after a day on the river.
Guests enjoy gourmet meals prepared by Argentine chefs, cozy gathering spaces to swap stories, and unmatched service throughout the week.
Kau Tapen Trip Schedule at a Glance
Here’s what your week at Kau Tapen Lodge looks like:
Arrival: Fly into Buenos Aires, then connect to Río Grande or Ushuaia, where lodge staff will greet and transfer you to the estancia.
Fishing Days: Enjoy six full days of guided fishing on the world-renowned Río Grande. Walk-and-wade access, short casting distances, and endless pools mean maximum time on the water with minimal effort.
Evenings: Return to the warmth of the lodge each night for chef-prepared Argentine cuisine, premium wines, and great company by the fire.
Departure: After one final hearty breakfast, transfer back for your flight home—rested, fulfilled, and already planning your return.
Trip Details, Pricing & Inclusions
Trip Dates: Coming Soon – contact Joe to join the waitlist or plan your hosted group adventure.
Weekly Rate: $9,950 per person
Intra-Argentina Flight (Buenos Aires → Río Grande): Approx. $1,300
Included in Your Trip:
Trip Dates: Coming Soon – contact Joe to join the waitlist or plan your hosted group adventure.
Weekly Rate: $9,950 per person
Intra-Argentina Flight (Buenos Aires → Río Grande): Approx. $1,300
Included in Your Trip:
- 6 ½ days of fully guided fly fishing on the legendary Río Grande
- 7 nights of lodging at the elegant Kau Tapen Lodge
- All meals, Argentine wines, beer, and soft drinks
- Round-trip ground transfers from Río Grande Airport
- Fishing license
Not Included:
- International and domestic flights
- Fly fishing gear
- Gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- Premium spirits
Looking for travel protection? We recommend Cross Current Insurance, our trusted partner for trip coverage. Just mention Wildside Adventures when you reach out!
Why Choose Kau Tapen Lodge?
- Hosted by Joe Rossi – Experience Patagonia with the expert insight and personalized attention that only Wildside Adventures can offer.
- World-Class Sea-Run Brown Trout – Fish the legendary waters of the Río Grande, home to some of the largest and most powerful sea-run browns on the planet.
- Luxury Meets Wilderness – Unwind in a beautifully restored estancia offering fine dining, private rooms, and warm Argentine hospitality.
- Exclusive Access, Limited Capacity – With just ten rods per week, enjoy uncrowded waters and a truly immersive fly fishing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! While seasoned anglers will love the technical water and trophy fish, first-time Patagonia visitors and intermediate fly fishers will also thrive thanks to expert guiding and accessible wading.
Each day includes two guided fishing sessions with a mid-day break for lunch and rest. Evenings are spent enjoying gourmet meals, drinks, and relaxing at the lodge.
Fly into Buenos Aires, then take a domestic flight to Río Grande. From there, round-trip ground transportation is included to get you to the lodge.
Single and two-handed rods both work well. We recommend an 8-weight rod, quality reels with strong drag systems, floating and sink-tip lines, and a selection of streamers, nymphs, and skaters. A full gear list is provided upon booking.
You’ll be chasing world-renowned sea-run brown trout, some of the largest in the world. These powerful fish are known for explosive takes and unforgettable fights.
