KAU TAPEN LODGE - Nervous Waters

Transcription

KAU TAPEN LODGE
Rio Grande, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
PRE TRIP INFORMATION
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
4 Welcome to Nervous Waters
Combo Trips
Clothing
18
6 Air and Travel Arrangements
Documents Required
Fishing Methods
The Daily Program
19
Reciprocity Fee
Guides & Vehicles
Catch & Release
7 Travel Insurance
Electric Current
8 About the Country
Licenses
Arrival in Buenos Aires
9 Buenos Aires Info / Attractions
10 Lodge Location
Getting there
11 Health concerns
20
Additional Tips
21
Miscellaneous
Safety Equipment
22 Communication Facilities
Medication
Climate
Gratuities
12 The Lodge
Currency
13 Food and Drink
14 The Fishing
15 Fly-Fishing Equipment
23 Helpful Hints for a Successful Trip
Useful Online Resources
24 Final Pre-Trip Checklist
Rods, Reels, Lines & Leaders,
25 Emergency Contact
Flies
26 Your Notes
17 Equipment rental
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Please take a moment to read the following
information well in advance of your departure. It will
help answer most questions concerning your stay.
NOTE TO GROUP LEADERS:
Please be sure to share this information with your group. It is your
responsibility to assure that everyone in your party is fully prepared, has
read and understands the trip cancellation policy on refunds, and has
had the opportunity to purchase travel protection insurance. Our deposit
and refund policies are clear, and there can be significant financial
consequences incurred if you do not provide this information to all members
of your group. Please take a moment now to review this information.
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welcome to
nervous waters
Starting with one lodge, Nervous Waters has grown into a company that has virtually transformed
fishing travel-and we won’t stop improving! We know great fishing is why you are coming. We also
know great fishing is what will bring you back. Providing quality experiences on and off the water is
our goal and our pledge. Since 1984, Nervous Waters has brought passion and attention to detail to
the concept of the modern sporting lodge by focusing on details that are critical to anglers.
Every day, we offer you five star service, so that your singular focus can be on the fishing.
combo trips
Nervous Waters owns and operates nine world-class fly-fishing destinations with the same high
standards of sport and service. From the legendary trout of Tierra del Fuego to both Argentine and
Chilean Patagonia, the Bahamas, the Iberá Wetlands; also the upper Paraná River and Paraná Delta,
our company has hosted thousands of discerning anglers. We know you will travel a long way from
your home to our lodges and we would like to both encourage you and offer you an incentive to
make the most of that journey with add-on lodge options and Combo Trips. Please ask us for more
information!
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OUR LODGES
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air & travel
arrangements
Relax... you’re in expert hands from the moment you leave home until
you return to gather your mail.
As owners of a family of lodges, and partners with PRANA TURISMO,
a travel agency that can book flights, hotels, and make myriad en route
arrangements, Nervous Waters is one of the few sporting companies
that takes responsibility for your entire trip. Your smooth, worry-free
travels are our top priority.
§§
Tailored packages are our specialty — travel accommodations,
air bookings, charter flights and ground transfers, everything
associated with your lodge stay. Our Concierge Service is at your
disposal 24/7.
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Because we are one company, if you have a delay, we are able to
notify your destination, so you’ll be met on arrival, regardless of
the hour.
§§
In addition to professional lodge employees, Nervous Waters
maintains an extensive outside staff to ensure smooth operations
of the travel sides of the business. A friendly voice will answer your
call any time, day or night, no matter where you are in the world.
It’s all part of our belief that we need to take care of the entire
experience, and that by doing so, it results in a seamless and more
integrated fishing travel holiday.
Let us know if you’d like to take advantage of Prana services and we’ll
take care of your needs.
required
documents
reciprocity fee
VERY IMPORTANT
American, Canadian and Australian passport holders visiting
Argentina will be required to pay a reciprocity fee. YOU WILL
NOT BE ALLOWED TO BOARD AN AIRCRAFT TO ARGENTINA
WITHOUT THE RECIPROCITY RECEIPT.
This MUST be done prior to your departure.
The payment of this “reciprocity fee” is not a Visa since Argentina does
not require a Visa from the aforementioned countries when traveling
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for tourism or business purposes. The Argentine Government set
this entry fee to be equal to amounts Argentine citizens pay when
requesting a Visa to travel to those countries.
To access the online Reciprocity payment forum, please click the
following link:
https://reciprocidad.provincianet.com.ar/Registro.aspx
You must register and pay with a credit card. Once the payment is
received, an electronic receipt will be given and passenger would
need to show it upon their arrival in Argentina. Print it out, put it in
your passport, and bring it to present to immigration when you arrive
to Argentina.
Fees:
NATIONALITY
FEE
AUSTRALIAN
U$D 100.-
CANADIAN
U$D 100.-
NUMBERS OF ENTRIES
MULTIPLE ENTRIES (1 year)
MULTIPLE ENTRIES (10 year or
up to one month before passport
expiration’s date)
Please note:AMERICAN
this is a requirement
for the aforementioned
nationalities
MULTIPLE ENTRIES
(10 year)
U$D 160.to enter into Argentina and has no relation with Nervous Waters.
*Rates subject to modifications based upon reciprocity
Passports and Visa
Requirements
Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, The United Kingdom,
South Africa, New Zealand and other Western European nations, do
not require a visa for tourist trips of up to 90 days to Argentina-however
they must travel with a valid passport from their country of residence.
Those carrying Passports from other nations should check with their
local consulates for specific regulations.
On Arrival
You will complete a two part landing card and be issued a stamp for
stays of 30, 60 or 90 days. Staple the duplicate of the landing card into
your Passport, next to your entrance stamp, as you’ll need it to leave
the country.
travel
insurance
We strongly recommend you purchase both health and trip cancellation
insurance. Once we have received the trip payment we are unable to
make a refund in the instance of a cancellation.
For standard travel insurance, we recommend Travel Guard
Click Here to get an online quote now or call +1-800-826-4919
and let the representative know that you are going to a Nervous
Waters Lodge so that they can better assist you.
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about the country
Argentina is the second largest country in South America and the eighth in the world. It is about 889 miles across at its
widest point and stretches 2,268 miles from the north to the south. Argentina boasts a diverse landscape of mountains,
plateaus, and plains with varying climactic conditions.
Argentina has a low demographic density. It consists of around 41 million people, concentrated in the urban centers.
Eighty-five percent of the population is descendant of immigrants from Europe. Spanish is the official language and is
spoken by the great majority of Argentineans. However, English, as a second language, is also commonly used.
Argentina’s mainly European cultural roots are clearly reflected in its architecture, music, literature, and lifestyle. The country
is home to intense cultural activity seen in festivals and concerts that take place in the main cities.
The typical Argentine food is asado, and dishes such as milanesas, empanadas, tamales, and locro, among others.
However, varied international cuisine adds color and local menus. The country’s signature drink is mate. The quality of its
wines and meats is world-renowned and the contemporary Argentine cuisine has reached international audiences due to
the country’s top chefs.
arriving in buenos aires
International flights typically arrive in the morning at Buenos
Aires’ Ezeiza International Airport (the airport’s official name is
Ministro Pistarini, code EZE), which is about 45 minutes driving
time from downtown. There is another airport in Buenos Aires
for domestic travel: Jorge Newbery Airport (code: AEP).
Upon landing at Ezeiza you will go through immigration. The
process is easy—just have your passport and immigration
documents (which you will fill out on the airplane before you
land) ready for the official as you approach the counter. You
will also be given a customs declaration form. Duty is not
charged on personal items, books, and other articles for
non-commercial purposes up to $300. Make sure to declare
any valuable electronic items, such as laptops, as customs
officers can be suspicious that you may be bringing them
into the country to sell.
The next step is to retrieve your luggage from the
carousels. There will be rental carts nearby and the
machines accept dollar bills and credit cards. Once you
have your bags you will go through customs. Chances
are that they will just wave you through, but you may be
stopped and checked.
Just outside customs you will enter a small area where you
can make arrangements for transportation to the downtown
core and hotels, if you have not done so already with Prana
Turismo or another agency.
Most of our guests spend their first afternoon and evening
getting to know Buenos Aires, and then fly to their fishing
destinations the following day, departing from the domestic
Aeroparque Airport terminal.
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buenos aires
general info
& attractions
We always recommend that anglers stay at least one night and day in
this fascinating city before or after their fishing adventure. From its rich
history and dramatic architecture to its seductive arts, cultural, and
culinary scene, Buenos Aires offers something for everyone.
Buenos Aires is a beautiful, European-style city, with plenty to see and
do. It is famous for tango dancing, delicious steaks, museums and
galleries and exciting nightlife.
Season:
Tours can be arranged year round. However, the most popular time
is November through April, which coincides with the fishing season at
most of our Argentina-based destinations.
Lodging:
Buenos Aires is a huge city and accommodations of all types can
easily be booked. Contact us for a list of hotel recommendations or
consider Prana Turismo Concierge Service.
Things to do:
City Tour
Delta Fishing Trip
Estancia Tours
San Telmo Market
La Boca neighborhood and stadium
Tango Show
Colón Theatre
Plaza de Mayo
In the evenings, this “city that never sleeps” is open for concerts,
shows, cinemas, casinos, discos, coffee-shops, and pubs. Many
visitors stay up until the wee hours, as well.
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lodge
location
The lodge is located on the banks of the Rio Grande, in
Tierra del Fuego, Argentina. The success of the fishery on
the Rio Grande is a modern-day fisherman’s Cinderella
story. In just a decade, through access control and catchand-release regulations, average catch rates have risen
from less than a fish a day in the early ‘80s to multiple fish
per day, per person, today. In the modern era, starting with
the opening of Kau Tapen Lodge in the early ‘80s, the Rio
Grande has become the most productive sea-run brown
trout fishery in the world. However, trout numbers fluctuate
with ocean variables, tides, water levels, and a host of other
natural factors.
The Rio Grande flows from west to east, from the Andes
to the Atlantic Ocean, through approximately 60 miles of
Argentine territory. The landscape of Tierra del Fuego
is reminiscent of Wyoming or the Scottish low country.
It includes sparsely populated wilderness, large sheep
farming estancias, and wild herds of llama-like Guanacos,
as well as plentiful red fox populations and condors.
getting
there
Guests fly into Buenos Aires, Argentina, and typically
overnight there, with a day to spend touring this wonderful
city. Arrival day at Kau Tapen is set for Saturday, so the
following morning guests depart Buenos Aires for the
flight south. Commercial airlines fly from Buenos Aires to
the airport of Rio Grande (3-hour flight), where a lodge
representative will meet you. The transfer from Rio Grande
airport to the lodge takes 50-60 minutes. On arrival at the
lodge, guests are welcomed with cocktails by the entire Kau
Tapen staff.
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health
concerns
No inoculations are required to enter Argentina. The town of
Rio Grande has a modern private clinic and Buenos Aires
offers first class hospital care in case of an emergency.
Both sun and winds are strong in Tierra del Fuego. Sun block
is HIGHLY recommended. There are no problems with the
drinking water here. The lodge serves drinkable well water,
but bottled water is always available. Mosquitoes and other
biting insects are not a problem on the Rio Grande. If you
have a health condition, please make sure to bring ALL the
medication you will require for your stay.
Please notify the lodge of any health conditions or concerns
we should be aware of. You can do this using the pre-trip
questionnaire provided. We have a basic first aid supply,
but please bring any items you think you may need. As with
all destination travel, you should be covered by a general
Health and Travel Insurance policy before you fly.
climate
The sea-run brown trout season runs from December to
mid-April, which are the summer months in the Southern
Hemishpere.
December and January are the warmest months, but also
traditionally the windiest. The sun can be strong during
the day, especially when reflected off the water, but even
when the temperatures are warm, the wind-chill factor
makes the use of layering gear necessary all season long.
Weather moves quickly through this part of the world and it
is possible to experience a multitude of seasons in a single
day, you’ll want to pack layers and take layers with you each
day, adding and shedding as conditions dictate.
You may also wish to visit www.myweather2.com to check
our forecast at Rio Grande, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina.
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the lodge
Built in 1984, Kau Tapen Lodge was designed to offer rods
maximum comfort during their fishing trips, as well as easy
access to the best pools on the world famous Rio Grande.
It accommodates up to 10 guests (and occasionally 12) in
en-suite single rooms to ensure privacy and comfort.
The lodge has Ten en suite single rooms; some offer a king
bed, while some have one queen, and others are furnished
with two doubles.
A large living room opens up to peaceful vistas of the
Menendez and Rio Grande valleys and includes a roaring
fire and a well stocked bar. The lodge also boasts a tackle
shop with an excellent selection of Sage rods, quality fly
reels, flies, lines, Patagonia clothing, and other fishing
essentials. In addition, guests have full use of the lodge’s
fly-tying table and equipment.
Additional Kau Tapen highlights include two wading/fly gear
rooms, a full spa with jacuzzi, a sauna and Finnish steam
bath.
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food and drink
At Nervous Waters, our kitchens come to life through the use of fresh
and regionally representative meats and produce. By combining these
elements, we create delicious flavors and varied textures that harbor
hidden stories and package traditions on each plate. A top-notch
team of experienced national and international chefs, trained in both
classic and avant-garde culinary techniques, execute our food. With
an artisan’s touch, chefs prepare every dish by scratch to be served
at a minute’s notice.
In addition, our inspired 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 wines to our lodges. We feel that the food we present
and the wines we serve should mirror the sporting opportunities we
offer—and be the very best available. While our vast country offers
many options for traditional activities such as riding, hunting, eating
good meats, and drinking good wines, we have chosen to blend fine
food and outdoor activity at an even higher level. We feel our offerings
from Bodega Catena Zapata blend perfectly into our harmonious niche
in the sporting environment. Boasting many accolades from the wine
community at large, a Bodega Catena Zapata wine recently received
a “number four in the world” icon ranking from Wine Advocate. These
are truly great wines that compete on the world stage and in addition
to enjoying your sporting holiday and our excellent menus, we also
hope you will also take note of our wines. They hold a special place in
our culture and we are proud to serve them to you.
At Kau Tapen and Villa Maria lodges our kitchens are characterized
by both classic preparations and contemporary flavors. Enjoy fresh
pastas and fire-roasted meats like our famous Patagonian lamb,
roasted gaucho-style over charcoal embers, alongside ocean-fresh
flavors such as King crab and savory sea bass or black hake. And
don’t forget to save room for dessert. From homemade ice creams to
classic sweets and pastries, we have you covered.
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the fishing
About the sea-run brown trout
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 sea, likely attracted
by the rich nourishment found in the brackish estuaries.
Sea-run brown trout now complete annual migratory cycles similar to
salmonids, spawning during the fall in freshwater. Juveniles remain in
the river 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 searun 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.
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fly-fishing
equipment (1)
The suggestions that follow are drawn from over two
decades’ experience fishing the Rio Grande under a wide
variety of conditions.
Rods: The Rio Grande features a natural design an instream architecture perfectly suited for Spey rods. Mending
and controlling line is also easier with a 2-hander. Use 7- to
9-weights from 12 to 15 feet long. If you’re new to Spey
casting, our guides are expert instructors and will help you
learn quickly. Lighter switch rods are increasingly popular
and allow anglers to cast a comfortable line with less effort,
particularly on windy days.
Single-handers in 7- to 9-weights—and up to 10 feet
long—can also be effective in light-wind 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- or
9-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 8 or 9 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).
Sage produces many of the best rods we use regularly
on the water. In addition to a stalwart lifetime warranty,
the company engineers several high-performance options
perfectly suited for this fishery.
Reels: choose a quality reel with a powerful, adjustable
drag. Reels (and spare spools) should have enough capacity
for your fly line and 100+ yards of 20-pound backing. We
recomment reels from Sage that produce several options
perfectly suited for the Rio Grande.
Lines: 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 sinkingtip lines also work great, while intermediate lines are also
effective in some conditions.
be used with sink-tips so you can target different depths.
RIO AFS are easy to cast and effective, whether fished
floating or sinking. RIO offers sinking poly leaders for those
lines. If you’re fishing a Skagit-style set-up, also check out
RIO’s MOW Tip system in varying weights and sink rates.
Fish Skagit heads for easy rod loading, for casting larger
flies on heavy tips, and for effectively casting into the wind.
Use 400- and 700-grain heads, depending on your rod.
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.
Leaders: 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. Spools of
monofilament should include 10- to 15-pound test weights.
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! While fishing, be
sure to check your mono regularly for casting knots and
abrasions. After each fish caught test your leader knots. For
floating lines it’s good to have knotless tapered leaders from
9 to 12 feet, with 0X tippets.
For Spey rods, we’re mostly using shooting heads, from
floating to fast-sinking (S4). Most shooting head can also
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fly-fishing
equipment (2)
Flies: Plan to bring a good selection of flies, however, some fly
patterns, as well as a modest supply of back-up tackle, will be available
for purchase at the lodge. Sea run brown trout are mysterious fish. The
only constant in their tastes seems to be a penchant for black. The trout
that accepts your small Salmon patterns today may demand flies with
white rubber legs tomorrow! Historically, most Rio Grande fish were
taken on large streamers, perhaps because those were the patterns
most commonly used. In low water conditions, more large sea trout are
taken on smaller wet flies, nymphs, and drys. We suggest packing a
range of flies in various patterns and sizes, and urge frequent changes
when one combination isn’t working. These combinations will be
determined based on light conditions, water levels, and especially on
your guide’s advice. Barbless hooks are strongly encouraged. Double
and treble hooks are not permitted. Catch-and-release is mandatory.
General fly list:
§§
Collie Dog tube flies (31/2 -41/2” 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, on #2-4 hooks
§§
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 for preference, #4-12
§§
Bead head nymphs (Prince, Hare’s Ear, etc. #10-14)
§§
Traditional Atlantic Salmon flies
§§
Bombers or other waking dry flies (natural deer hair, black&green
on #4-8 hooks), for use drifted or with a Portland hitch
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
that larger streamers should be weighted and should be tied on heavy
hooks with good gapes.
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equipment
rental
There are quality fly rods available at the lodge for you to use if needed.
The cost per day is $25 and it includes the rod, reel, and line. Please
advise us of your need for a rod prior to arrival to ensure availability. A
charge of $150 will be billed to you in the event a rental rod is broken.
This covers the cost of shipping and repair.
clothing
The summer climate of this southern region of South America includes
a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions. We recommend
layering, so you can add or remove garments during the day. Pack
fleece jackets, thermal underwear, polar neck warmers, wool or
synthetic socks, and a wool cap for cold weather.
Flannels and Polartec shirts are ideal for the river, but you’ll inevitably
change to something lighter back at the lodge. Also take a reliable
windstopper/rain jacket.
Exceptional outerwear is a key ingredient to comfortable fishing. And
for everything from layering essentials, waders, boots, and stormproof
jackets to fishing-ready accessories, and more—Patagonia produces
some of the best.
Waders: Wading isn’t difficult on the Rio Grande. However, we
recommend chest waders for warmth, to get to that occasionally
fished cut bank, and to manage deeper water when crossing the river.
Capilene fleece pants are a must wear under Gore-Tex waders, given
that water temperatures can be in the 40s (degrees F.). Thick wool or
capilene fleece socks are also a must, and warm long johns might also
be necessary.
Bring a good pair of wading boots with felt or rubber soles (with cleats).
Use gravel guards and be sure to bring a wading belt. A wading staff is
optional, but can come in handy during very windy days.
We strongly recommend new Patagonia Waders that has proven to be
extremely successfull among guides and guests.
17
fishing
methods
Although most of their lives are spent in the ocean, sea-run brown
trout seem to retain more of the eccentricities of resident browns than,
for instance, steelhead do of resident rainbows. Moody fish, they must
be shown flies the way they want to see them at the precise time that
they’re ready to take. The Rio Grande isn’t a big river.
Thus, it’s compatible with a wide range of techniques; critical since a
large sea-run brown trout may demand that a fly be fed to it on the
bottom one hour but rise to a skating fly the next. Water levels can
change from week to week and they generally drop as the season
progresses.
Vary your presentations in each pool fished until you find the right
formula of fly, line, drift or swing, and retrieve. Also heed the advice
of your guide, whose primary aim is to recommend methods that will
help you hook and bring more fish to the net.
Generally, the Rio Grande’s sea-run brown trout seem to lie near cut
banks during the middle of the day, though in low water they will also
lie in the faster necks of pools. They typically move into these areas
during early morning, evening, and nighttime hours.
Generally, “tails in the morning and heads at night” is a good rule. Also
look for fish distributed throughout pools on calm, overcast days. On
sunny days, one theory holds that sea-run brown trout will take best if
they don’t have the sun in their eyes, although this theory, like others,
is often affected by the number of fish in a particular pool and the
number of “takers.”
the daily
program
Guests will leave the lodge around 9 o’clock after breakfast, fishing till
around 1 o’clock. 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.
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guides &
vehicles
Kau Tapen has a team of experienced, professional international and
local guides. They all speak English, and are experts on single- and
two-hand casting, presentation and techniques, and fly choice. They
are there to make your fishing more productive and enjoyable. Don’t
hesitate to ask them for advice.
Guides will transport you to the river in comfortable 4WD vehicles. All
are equipped with rod racks, first aid equipment, and VHF radios.
catch &
release
Kau Tapen abides by a strict catch and release policy, which has over
the years helped increase the numbers of returning fish.
The mortality rate of released fish is almost non-existent, and these
fish do not die after spawning. Catch and release hugely increases the
chances of fish returning to the river.
We ask that all fishermen to de-barb all flies. Not only do barbless
hooks penetrate more readily, allowing for more successful hookups,
but they are also more easily removed, should a cast go errant. Guides
are equipped with large nets featuring built-in scales. They are trained
to land your fish, weigh it and measure it, and release it unharmed.
If you are landing and releasing your own fish, hold it facing the current,
and avoid moving it back and forth in the water. You may have to
hold it in this position for a good while. Be patient, only when a fish is
thoroughly rested should it be allowed to swim away.
electric
current
A standard converter and European adapter for a two-pronged plug
should work fine throughout Argentina.
The lodge has reliable electric power and back-up battery powered
lighting.
* The lodge is 220 volts, 50 cycles, generator powered.
licenses
Upon arrival at Kau Tapen Lodge, you will be asked for your passport
so that we can process your fishing license. Lodge managers will
make a copy of the first page and paste your photo to the official
license. With your paperwork returned and a new license in hand,
you’re ready to fish. Fishing license fees are included with your stay.
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additional tips
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
If you have questions, ask your guide. They
know the river well and can give you the best
recommendations on how to approach a
particular fishing situation.
Fishing days are long, especially early in the season,
and the climate can be difficult. Concentrate your
fishing during periods when trout are taking, and
don’t hesitate to rest at midday. If you find that you
tire as the week progresses, talk with your guide
about departing for the river a bit later; they will be
happy to accommodate you.
As a rule, the more time your fly spends in the
water, the more sea-run brown trout you’ll catch.
You’ll want to minimize false casting in order to
cover as much water as possible during each
outing. One common retrieve is the use of short
strips, but since pools and flies vary it’s best to
consult your guide on how best to fish each new
situation and which retrieves work best. Point
your rod tip to where your fly line enters the water,
following the line around as it swings through the
run. Depending on the swiftness of the current,
you may want to mend your line upstream,
occasionally even downstream, in order to
present your fly most advantageously to the trout.
Check leaders regularly for wind knots, which can
halve the breaking strength of monofilament.
Check leaders regularly for wind knots, which can
halve the breaking strength of monofilament.
If you have a fish roll at the fly, follow or “bump” it
in any way; there is a good chance that the trout
will come back to the same or a different fly. Rest
the fish and cast again to the same location. Try to
repeat the same length cast and fly speed. Then,
change the speed and fly on the next several
casts. If the trout does not show again after a few
changes, mark his location and return to try him
again after resting that portion of the pool.
6.
In setting a hook, it’s best simply to tighten and let
the fish hook itself.
7.
Having hooked a large fish, don’t plant your feet
and attempt to drag it upstream against the
current. Once you have the trout under control,
head for shore and move with your fish, staying
either abreast or slightly downstream of it. Also
remember to “bow” to jumping sea trout by
lowering your rod tip as the fish leaves the water.
8.
Play sea-run brown trout aggressively; much like
you would with Atlantic salmon or steelhead.
Many anglers play large fish too gingerly, which
causes more losses than bullying the fish.
9.
If you hook a fish in low light, communicate with
your guide immediately. Listen carefully to his
instructions, particularly with regards to the most
reliable spot to net your fish.
10.
Handle all fish with care and release them
unharmed. All fishing on the Rio Grande is catch
and release. Try not to let your trophies thrash
on the bank. For pictures, cradle the fish in wet
hands, gripping the handle of the tail firmly. Return
the fish to the river as quickly as possible.the fish
to the river as quickly as possible.
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miscellaneous
Insects are not a problem in Tierra del Fuego, but be sure to bring and
use sun block (45-60 SPF) even on cloudy days. Also plan to use lip
balm, depending on your sensitivity. (The sun is very strong!)
Use a tackle bag or backpack for odds and ends on the water. Most of
the fishing on the Rio Grande is near the vehicle. Items such as extra
jackets, vests, and tackle can be left in the vehicle each day between
fishing periods. Small pliers are handy for de-barbing hooks and
releasing fish. Don’t forget nippers, dry-fly floatant, line dressing, and a
small headlamp or flashlight for evening fishing. A hook sharpener and
Polartec or neoprene (fingerless) fishing gloves are also recommended.
Note: 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 closefitting reel cover that can be easily removed.
safety
equipment
For eye protection, sunglasses should be worn while fishing the Rio
Grande. Polarized lenses and a fishing hat with a brim that will protect
your eyes and ears make an ideal combination. Also, anglers should
pack yellow or clear protective glasses. Yellow lenses tend to brighten
the dusk sky. Anglers who wear prescription glasses should pack
prescription polarized lenses as well as backups.
We advise all clients to wear a wading belt. Although the gravelbottomed Rio Grande is relatively easy to navigate on foot, accidents
happen. When they do, belts can prevent you from drowning due to
an unexpected dunking. Also, if you’re at all unsure about your footing,
please consider using a wading staff. From one beat to the next,
crisscrossing the river is the norm. Guides will assist you in getting
from point A to point B, during which time a wading staff can help with
overall stability.
Guides are prepared to handle emergency medical situations, but you
can take a few Band-Aids for cuts, scrapes, and blisters. Many anglers
like to tape their stripping finger with electrical tape to avoid cuts.
21
communication
facilities emergencies
Kau Tapen lodge has telephone and Internet services for guests. You
will find all the relevant contact details in your final itinerary, a copy of
which you can leave with a family member in case of emergency. Your
pre-trip questionnaire should indicate a contact in case of emergency,
which is forwarded to the managers of Kau Tapen Lodge.
medication
Travelers should always pack medication for such common ailments
as diarrhea, upset stomach, motion sickness, headache and nausea,
along with any necessary prescriptions. Most visitors to Argentina don’t
experience stomach problems associated, for instance, with Mexico,
but it pays to have treatment available just in case. You’ll find food to
be outstanding and bottled water available everywhere in Argentina.
gratuities
The guides and staff at Kau Tapen Lodge work hard to provide you
with the best experience during your trip. Gratuities are discretionary
and show your appreciation with the standard of the services provided.
They are much appreciated by all. Typically gratuities for guides and
staff range from $125 - $175 per person, per day. The tip pool will be
divided by managers amongst ALL the staff at Kau Tapen.
currency
The dollar is widely accepted, and you can change dollars to pesos at
your hotel or any bank. When paying in dollars, most merchants give
change in pesos. This can be a good way to get small bills for cabs,
tips for porters, etc. It is difficult to exchange traveler’s checks of any
kind outside Buenos Aires. American Express, Visa, and MasterCard
are widely accepted. The lodge accepts payment in cash and with
the credit cards previously mentioned. With the latter, there will be a
surcharge of 3.5 % added to the final payment.
22
helpful hints for
a successful trip
Even though we’ll do everything under our control for you to
have a successful trip, smooth, enjoyable fishing adventures
require some additional prep on your part.
Here are some hints and tips that will help:
§§
Use the gear and fly lists provided in this file. We
have spent years creating and fine-tuning these lists to
ensure that our clients travel with the right type and right
amount of equipment that is applicable and relevant to
each destination.
§§
Practice your casting! You may be proficient with some
specific rod types and flies, but we recommend that you
practice with the equipment you’ll be using during your
trip with us. For best results, practice casting both into
and across the wind and practice your accuracy.
§§
Check your passport and travel documents to
make sure that everything is valid and up-to-date.
§§
Dispatch rods/reels! Finally, please note that rods/reels
will not be accepted as carry-ons during international and
DOMESTIC flights! Instead, stow these items with your
regular luggage, or check them separately in appropriate
tubes and cases.
useful online
resources
Sportsmans Travel Insurance
With insurance through Travel Guard you’ll have
valuable coverage that travels with you. Travel
Guard is America’s leading provider of travel
insurance plans and assistance programs and
has packages specially designed for sportsmen.
Get an online quote HERE:
http://www.travelguard.com/NewRedirects/
agentlink.asp?ta_arc=241203&pcode=&
agencyemail=info%40nervouswaters.com
Seat Guru
The ultimate source for airplane seating, in-flight
amenities, and airline information, including
detailed information about seats with limited
recline, reduced legroom and more:
www.seatguru.com
23
Passport Information
The U.S. State Department website provides
information and services to American citizens on
how to obtain, replace, or change a passport:
www.travel.state.gov/passport/
Weather Underground Trip Planner
View average and historical annual temperatures
and precipitation levels for most destinations: www.wunderground.com
The Weather Channel Web Site
Check weather for your destination, monthly
averages, track airport delays, storms and
more: www.weather.com
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention A great website for travel and health information.
The latest health-related news and advisories for
any destination, here: www.cdc.gov/travel
final pre-trip
checklist
90+ DAYS OUT
§§
Pre-Trip planning materials and invoice have been received and
thoroughly read
§§
Client Pre-Trip questionnaire form has been submitted
(www.nervouswaters.com/pre-trip)
§§
Airline reservations made / tickets confirmed
§§
Trip insurance policy purchased
§§
Passport and travel documents checked - All dates are valid

60 DAYS OUT
§§
All flight information sent in to Nervous Waters
§§
Trip final payment sent to Nervous Waters to secure reservation
§§
All equipment ordered / purchased / gathered for your trip
§§
Transfers and Hotel accommodations booked via Prana Turismo
or other agency
7 DAYS OUT
§§
Flight times and travel details confirmed directly with airlines
§§
Passport and travel documents reviewed and double-checked
§§
All equipment packed and ready to go
§§
Final Pre-Trip call with Nervous Waters; all questions answered
24
emergency
contact
CONTACT AT THE LODGE
Carolina Rivilli
CaroRivilli@Hotmail.com
(+54) 11 5258-0253
MAIN OFFICE
Santiago Garcia Seeber
Santiago@NervousWaters.com
Phone: (+54) 11 4801-1008
Direct from USA: 800-530-6928
24/7 TRAVEL ASSISTANCE
Direct from USA: 917-338-7186
Emergency@NervousWaters.com
Local land Line: +54 9 11 4914-8214
w w w. n e r vo us wat e rs .co m
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your notes
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