Toon Ken Lodge
The first brown trout were stocked in Tierra del Fuego by John Goodall in 1935. Shipped from Puerto Montt in 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, possibly attracted by the rich nourishment of the estuary. These sea-run brown trout now complete the yearly migratory cycle of salmonids, spawning during the summer months in freshwater.
Salmo Trutta remain in the river for a period of time which ranges between 1 and 4 years until their first migration to the sea, where they will feed and grow for about 6 months before their first return to freshwater, weighing approximately 6 lbs. Researchers have found trout which had spawned more than 6 times. A trout which as completed 4 cycles of returning to freshwater can weigh over 20 lbs.The frequency with which they return to freshwater is also an indicator that the fish face very few threats. Whilst also providing a very real example of the benefits of Catch and Release.
Toon Ken Lodge Accommodation and Meals:
Toon Ken Lodge was custom-built in 2003 to offer rods maximum comfort during their fishing trip, as well as easy accessibility to the pools. The lodge accommodates up to 7 guests in 2 twin rooms and 3 single rooms, all ensuite and has a large living room that opens up to vistas of the Rio Grande river. There is a large fireplace and well stocked bar as well as a tackle shop, sauna, and outdoor Jacuzzi for guests to relax after a day outdoors.
Toon Ken offers wonderful cuisine based on local meats,fresh vegetable and delicious deserts. A traditional Asado (BBQ) will be held once during your stay, and you can sample different cuts of meat and wonderful salads. A full cooked breakfast will be available together with fresh fruits, yogurts, home baked breads and jams and a selection of cereals. Villa Maria’s cellars feature a wonderful selection of fine wines from the Luigi Bosca Bodega, which will be served during lunch and dinner.
Toon Ken Lodge Climate:
The summer climate of this southernmost region of South America is extremely changeable, and a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions should be expected. The sun can be very strong during the day, but the wind chill factor makes the use of protective gear necessary all season long.
Toon Ken Lodge Clothing:
It is recommended that anglers layer their clothing, enabling the adding and subtracting of garments throughout the day. Pack polar fleece jackets, thermal underwear, polar neck, wool socks and a wool cap to be prepared for the extreme. Flannel or chamois cloth shirts and polars are ideal for the stream. A reliable windstopper/rain jacket is also recommended. Attire at the lodge is casual and laundry service is available.
Included:
Transfer from Rio Grande airport to lodge (roundtrip); dinner wines; all fishing services including guiding, transportation, and fishing license where applicable.
Not Included:
Buenos Aires hotels, Buenos Aires transfers, personal equipment, staff and guide gratuities, laundry services.
Toon Ken Lodge Travel:
To get to the Toon Ken Lodge, you will need to make reservations to and from Rio Grande, Argentina via Buenos Aires. You will likely need to overnight in Buenos Aires before departing on a morning flight to Rio Grande. A lodge representative will meet you at the Rio Grande airport and transport you to the lodge in a four wheel drive vehicle. Transfer from the airport to the lodge takes approximately 1.5 hours.