Río Chimehuín · access
Neuquén, Patagonia, Argentina · Argentina
- Junín de los AndesThe town on the river and the base for the spring-creek reach.
- Puente Viejo (old bridge)The classic public access point and the busiest stretch in January.
- Chimehuín Mouth / Collón CuráThe confluence water, where big fish take streamers.
Licence and rules
Licence and rules. Argentina requires a provincial fishing licence, sold in Junín de los Andes, San Martín de los Andes and online, and the Neuquén season runs from 11 November to 30 April on most water. Large parts of the Chimehuín are private or under a fishing club, including the famous spring-creek reach, so check access before you plan a day. Catch-and-release is compulsory for most of the river and barbless hooks are required in many sections.
Season
11 November to 30 April on the main river; the spring creek opens 1 November
Flow
500–3,000 cfs; controlled by the Huechulafquen lake outlet
The Chimehuín's flow comes out of Lake Huechulafquen, so it is stable through the summer and only rises significantly after rain in the Andes above the lake. That stability keeps the river clear and fishable when smaller Patagonian rivers are blown out. The spring-creek reach stays at a constant temperature and level, which is exactly why it grows so much weed and why its opening date is delayed.