ESTANCIA ALICURA Central Patagonia - Tailwaters Fly Fishing Co.

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ESTANCIA ALICURA 

Central Patagonia 

Travel - Fishing - Accomodations - How to Get There - When to Go - Rates - Much More 

TAILWATERS TRAVEL PUBLICATION 

© 2010 Tailwaters Travel

table of contents 

ESTANCIA ALICURA 

accomodations 12-17 

general description 

fishing information 

4-5 

How to Get There 

sample itinerary 

seasonALITY 

When to go 

non-angling activities 

18-19 

20-21 

22-25 

tailwaters travel services 

Personalized Service 

Perhaps our greatest asset is our hands on 

dedication to insuring your trip is perfectly & 

conveniently planned. We are not your standard 

9:00-5:00 travel agency. Our staff is on call to 

answer the most trivial of questions, lend a hand in 

an emergency, or help gather any last minute gear, 

flies, or tackle. Every trip we plan is personalized to 

each individuals special needs or requests, specific 

itinerary and seasonality. We are a small operation 

that succeeds because we offer the best customer 

service in the industry. 

Outfitting Guides & Pre-trip Organization 

When you book a trip with us you will receive one of our destination specific outfitting guides. 

These comprehensive packets contain everything from maps to gear & tackle recommendations, 

information about commercial travel arrangements, lodge policy, country information, itinerary, 

travel insurance and much more. Our outfitting guides have been meticulously prepared to 

provide you with the most informative and up to date pre-trip planning reference in the industry. 

Although we are always on call at the office, our outfitting guides are the ultimate go-to resource 

for questions or concerns about planning your trip. 

6-11 

rates 

terms and conditions 

pre-trip planning 

26 

27 

back 

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You the client dont pay a penny for our services! Our destination recommendations, 

organization and pre-trip planning services are completely free of charge. We can assist with 

every question, concern, or special request related to your adventure at zero cost! 

We Have Been There 

We do not send our clients to any destination we have not visited ourselves. From the remote 

rivers of the Kamchatka Peninsula, the marshes of Southern Louisiana, to the sandy flats of the 

Seychelles, we have experienced the travel involved, eaten the food, fished with the guides and 

know exactly what gear and tackle is most productive. 

ABOUT THE COVER 

The Caleufu River Valley from Estancia Alicura.

argentine patagonia 

DESTINATION DESCRIPTION 

estancia location 

alicura 

Location: 

Eighty Miles North of San Carlos de Bariloche 

along the Caleufu, Collon Cura, and Limay Rivers. 

Destination Description: 

Estancia Alicura is located approximately one 

and a half hours north of the beautiful Patagonian 

ski town of San Carlos de Bariloche. 

The 200,000 acre property is found in the 

northern/central region of Argentine Patagonia 

between Bariloche to the south and 

San Martin de Los Andes to the north. Purchased 

in 1998 by Dallas businessman, Ward 

Lay, Alicura is without question the most 

luxurious organized fishing and hunting guest 

ranch in all of Patagonia. By melding a worldclass 

Photo trout fishing Caption and Red Stag deer hunting 

operation with Four-Seasons like accommodations 

and service, Alicura offers a unique 

and opulent option for anglers and non-anglers 

seeking the most comfortable Patagonian 

experience imaginable. However, do 

not confuse the bonus of intimate five star 

accommodations as a compromise. Estancia 

Alicura runs a professional fishing program 

on some of Argentina’s most famous rivers 

for the most intensive anglers at a very 

reasonable and competitive price point. 

Argentine Patagonia is an extremely arid and 

rough country. The best way to envision the 

terrain in northern Patagonia is to think of 

northern New Mexico or parts of the high 

mountain desert in Montana or Wyoming… 

.a mixture of very wide open spaces, rolling 

hills, and dramatic mountains. The rivers 

themselves are most often surrounded by 

cottonwood and willow trees, also similar to 

drier regions in our Rocky Mountains. 

Since the former sheep ranch was acquired 

twelve years ago, Mr. Lay has undertaken a massive 

conservation minded effort restoring the 

overgrazed pastures and riverbanks. The result 

of this financial and emotional investment can be 

easily seen today. The beautiful property hosts 

a world renowned and thriving Red-Stag herd, 

all grasses and vegetation have returned to their 

native abundance, wildlife is around every corner, 

and the trout fishing is phenomenal. 

The most unique and equally impressive 

aspect of the Alicura operation is the laid 

back, service oriented, and personal atmosphere. 

There is no set agenda, predetermined 

schedule, or rules to govern your 

stay. The team of hospitality managers, staff, 

maids, and of course professional fishing 

guides are there as guests’ escorts and can 

accommodate any group dynamics and desires. 

For this reason, Alicura is the perfect 

Patagonian destination for couples, families, 

hunters, and hard-core anglers alike. 

4 

5


THE FISHING 

The Fishing: 

Alicura’s nearly three hundred squares miles 

contains a beautiful and lengthy stretch of 

the Caleufu River (“Cu-Lay-oo-foo”) until it 

reaches the property line and the confluence 

of the Collon Cura River (“Coo-shone-coorah”). 

This windy freestone cuts an absolutely 

gorgeous valley through the center of the 

ranch, only a few moments drive from the 

guest quarters. When conditions are favorable, 

the fishing on the Caleufu can be astounding, 

with both walk and wade and floating 

opportunities for browns, rainbows, and the 

occasional land-locked Atlantic Salmon. 

Alicura’s remoteness grants anglers with complete 

solitude and rested water. The shallow, 

riffled, and windy nature of the Caleufu offers 

easy wading and user-friendly, picturesque dry 

fly fishing opportunity. In addition to the river 

fishing on the Estancia, Alicura has its very own 

15,000 acre lake equipped with fishing boats 

and a ski boat. This venue is a great option for 

beginners of the more casual anglers to chase 

large lake going fish with spinning gear, go water 

skiing, or simply on a “booze cruise”. 

While driving north from Bariloche en route 

to the ranch, travelers will follow the Limay 

River (“Lee-My”) valley draining from Lake 

Nahuel Huapi to the confluence of the Collon 

Cura River approximately eighty miles north 

of town. Various stretches of these two large 

river systems are representative of the fishing 

options for guests when not on ranch property. 

Alicura operates traditional fiberglass drift 

boats on these two rivers… one of the only 

outfits in Argentina who do not use inflatable 

rafts. The Collon Cura and Limay offer the 

most consistent opportunity for truly huge 

browns and rainbows, with 25 inch plus specimens 

landed often. The style of fishing these 

bigger waters often dictates using anything 

from traditional dries to streamers, with the 

biggest fish often taken on wooly bugger or 

sculpin patterns. 

Rio Collon Cura 

The best way to begin a description of the 

Collon Cura is that it is formed by the Malleo, 

Alumine, and Chimehuin Rivers. Realize that 

these rivers are probably three of the most 

fertile rivers in Argentina, with great water 

quality and size. As a freestone river, the Collon 

Cura is probably one of the most prolific 

fisheries in this region. It is also the type of 

fishing that most resembles some of the great 

Western Rivers. 

Running through a high desert valley, with a 

very mild gradient, you will fish endless broad 

riffles, and have great float fishing opportunities 

every inch of the way. Like many of the 

estancia alicura 

rivers in Argentina, most of this river is running 

through just two estancias, which insures 

relative isolation, and very little to zero fishing 

pressure on the river. 

Just about every form of fly fishing can be effective 

on the Collon Cura. Big foam in the 

riffles, hoppers and droppers on the banks, 

calm morning hatches with noses on the flats 

– caddis, mayflies, streamers…this river has it 

all. There is not really a slow time on the Collon 

Cura. Clients have repeatedly claimed the 

Collon Cura rainbows are the hardest fighting 

fish in all of Patagonia, and most guides agree. 

The majority of trout here are rainbows but 

there are some big browns too, and in recent 

seasons, resident brown trout up to 15 pounds 

have been released. 

6 

7


THE CALEUFU 

booking a Trip with Tailwaters 

PRE TRIP PLANNING


THE FISHING 


produce the best results. The ratio of 

rainbows to browns is about 3:1 and 

trophy fish are released every year. In 

the beginning of the season, dry flies 

can produce numerous fish, while in 

the fall, angler’s focus on size instead of 

numbers. Five to 15 pound browns enter 

the river from the lake around April 

and can provide anglers with great opportunities 

at trophy fish. During this 

time the fishing is very much like steelheading 

or Sea-Run Brown angling. 

Rio Limay 

The Limay River is a northeast flowing 

river that drains the Nahuel Huapi 

Lake in Bariloche. The crystal clear 

Rio Limay flows east towards the drier 

steppe land. Though it can be a difficult 

river to fish it is known to yield 

huge fish in the 10 lb. plus category, 

both rainbows and browns. A day floating 

and fishing this river with a guide 

can be worthwhile especially in the fall 

months of March and April. 

Guides 

Head guide and Argentine native, Fernando 

Gonzalez, and his staff of English 

speaking guides are some of the best in 

the region. They offer fly-casting lessons 

to the most modest of beginners, 

and have a lifetime of experience fishing 

the local waters around Alicura. 

All types of fishing techniques are used 

throughout the season; however, sinking 

tip or shooting head lines tend to 

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ACCOMMODATIONS 

estancia location 

alicura 

Accommodations: 

Although guests at Alicura enjoy 

the fine amenities, Alicura has 

not lost its charming or intimate 

flavor. Visitors at the lodge 

feel like true guests in a private 

home. The intimate and tasteful 

atmosphere of the refurbished 

100 + year old colonial ranch 

house makes for a comfortable 

and relaxing vacation. 

The main lodge consists of a 

dining room, commercial kitchen, 

numerous social / common areas, 

outdoor patios, and four 

double or single occupancy 

for cohesive parties 

bedrooms with private baths. In 

Photo Caption 

addition to the main lodge bedrooms, 

there is also a separate 

guest house with three bedrooms 

that is ideal of a cohesive 

party or if you are looking for 

a little additional privacy. The 

grounds surrounding with ranch house are a 

full time job for the gardener, who keeps the 

landscape beautiful all summer. 

With all the amenities of a five star hotel, 

there is no finer accommodation in Argentine 

Patagonia. From the luxurious bathrooms 

equipped with terrycloth robes and vanities, 

to the duvet covered bedspreads, the highest 

maintenance of guests are comfortable at 

Photo Caption 

Alicura. The entire property is also equipped 

with high-speed wireless internet. 

Outside from the accommodations is an authentic 

quincho house, where weekly Barbeques or 

Asados are organized for guests weekly. Meals 

and fine wine are a huge part of any trip to Argentina, 

and the team of professional chefs and 

staff at Alicura ensure you will not lose weight 

or go thirsty. Alicura also owns their own winery, 

Andeluna, in the Mendoza region, and a 

number of their own excellent Argentine wines 

is available for guests. Don’t forget your swimsuit… 

Alicura’s heated pool is a nice place to 

relax after a long day on the river. 

Capacity 

- 8 guests in four bedrooms in the main house 

- 6 guests in the three bedroom guest house 

12 

13


ACCOMMODATIONS

estancia alicura


HOW TO GET THERE 

Guests of Alicura fly direct to Buenos Aires 

(EZE) from Dallas/Ft. Worth, Houston, Miami, 

or New York on an overnight flight arriving 

the following morning. Fishermen traveling 

straight to the lodge then gather their luggage, 

clear customs, and are met by a driver who 

transfers the group approximately one hour to 

the Domestic Airport (AEP) for the flight to 

Bariloche aboard Aerolineas Argentinas or Lan 

Airlines. Most travelers elect to spend the day 

and evening (or more) in Buenos Aires prior to 

departing from Bariloche the following morning. 

Tailwaters uses a very reliable customs 

assistance and chauffeur service that operates 

comfortable, air-conditioned vans and make 

sure you are timely and properly checked in for 

your two-hour domestic flight to Bariloche. 

Upon arrival in Bariloche, the group is then 

met at the baggage claim and driven north up 

the Limay River Valley approximately one hour 

to the entrance to Estancia Alicura. From the 

turn-off, guests then drive approximately a half 

hour down the main ranch road to the ranch 

headquarters and main lodge. 

Day 3 

In the morning our people in Buenos Aires 

will provide ground transportation to the 

domestic airport, Aeroparque (AEP) for the 

flight to San Carlos de Bariloche aboard a 

local carrier such as Aerolineas Argentinas 

or Lan Airlines. Our escorts will make sure 

you are properly checked in for your twohour 

domestic flight to Bariloche. Upon 

arrival in Bariloche, the group is then met at 

the ba4gage claim and driven approximately 

1.5 hours to Estancia Alicura. 


Sample Itinerary 

Day 1 

Afternoon departure on overnight flight 

to Buenos Aires. 

Day 2 

Arrive Buenos Aires (EZE) in the morning. 

Anglers gather their luggage, clear 

customs, and are met by a driver who 

provides ground transportation to one 

of our recommended hotels in the city. 

Once settled and unpacked, most travelers 

head out for a late lunch, a ½ day 

city tour, or possibly some shopping. 

Tailwaters uses a very reliable customs 

assistance and chauffeur service that 

operates comfortable, air-conditioned 

vans. Our drivers can also organize 

dinner reservations, ground transportation, 

and even a guide/chaperone to 

ensure you get the most out of your 

time in Buenos Aires. 

Airports in Buenos Aires 

When traveling internationally into Buenos 

Aires, travelers will arrive at Aeropuerto 

Internacional de Ezeiza Ministro 

Pistarini (International Airport - EZE). 

While traveling within Argentina, 95% of 

all domestic flights originate from Aeroparque 

Jorge Newbery (Domestic Airport 

– AEP). During rush hour traffic, 

this ground transfer between airports 

can take as long as two hours. 

This is another reason why we recommend 

spending the night in Buenos Aires 

upon arrival from North America. A 

comfortable 24 hour layover in the city 

allows travelers to unwind after the long 

flight, allow any missing luggage to catch 

up and offers travelers a logical opportunity 

to explore the beautiful city of BA. 

Day 4 - 

Fishing, riding, guest ranching, hunting & 

relaxing at Estancia Alicura! 

Departure Day 

Guests are transferred back to Bariloche 

for a mid afternoon flight to Buenos Aires. 

The group is then picked up and transferred 

back to the international airport 

and assisted through check-in for your 

flight on to the United States. (Arrive 

USA early the following morning). 

Photo Caption 

E x p l o r e . . . 

B u e n o s A i r e s 

If you have the time, B.A.’s nightlife, restaurants, 

museums, culture, and shopping are well 

worth the effort. This is a great way to break 

up the two legs of the journey, do some sightseeing 

and recharge your batteries. 

We can facilitate your stay at one of our recommended 

hotels in Buenos Aires and can 

also lend a hand with restaurant reservations, 

city tours, shopping excursions, tango shows 

and all ground transportation to/from airports, 

hotels, restaurants, ect. 

18 

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WHEN TO GO 


Spring/Early Summer 

This would be the months of November and December. 

The trout fishing season opens on the 

second Saturday in November. If you enjoy the 

invigorating temperatures of spring, the countryside 

dotted with colorful wildflowers, the hungriest 

trout of the season, and the fewest anglers and 

tourists, then plan your trip for this time of the 

year. The rivers are generally high from snow melt, 

but water clarity is not an issue for most of the waters. 

This period corresponds with the months of 

May and June in the Western U.S. Expect springtime temperatures, cool to cold mornings and 

nights. Temperature range: 32 - 70. 

sEASONALITY / wHEN TO gO: 

The weather in the Argentine Patagonia is very 

unpredictable. Although seasons are well defined, 

anglers should come physically and mentally 

prepared for all types of weather on a daily 

basis. Conditions are frequently windy (unless 

you’re lucky), rain can occur at any time, and 

temperature variations are enormous no matter 

the month you visit. 

The fishing season in Argentina runs from November 

through April. Every month offers advantages 

others might not, but no matter which 

time of year, you can expect to have a quality 

fishing experience. 

Mid-Summer 

This would be the months of January and February. If you like to fish in short sleeves on 

bright, sunny days, you should focus on January and February. A good combination of wet and 

dry fly fishing and generally the most dependable weather of the season. These months correspond 

with the months of July and August in the Western U.S. The weather can range from 

hot and dry in the daytime to cool mornings and nights. Temperatures can range into the 80’s, 

and during mid-summer, daylight can last until 10:30 at night. Temperature range: 50 - 85. 

Late Summer/Early Fall 

During March and April (the season closes 

April 30th) the days begin to shorten. In 

April the trees start to show the colors 

of fall, the salmon and big browns move 

from the lakes into the rivers to spawn, 

and water temperatures begin to reactivate 

the trout. Good wet and dry fly 

fishing through mid-April. Water levels 

tend to be low and clear. These months 

correspond to September and October 

in the Western U.S. Expect autumn temperatures 

and cool to cold mornings and 

nights. Temperature range: 32 - 70. 

20 

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NON-ANGLING ACTIVITY 


hunting season at alicura: 

Red Stag, Puma, Wild Boar & Quail Hunting… 

The ranch also has a thriving Red Stag 

herd (both free-range and a 25,000 acre 

enclosure) for hunters interested in fall 

season big game hunting. It is also worth 

mentioning options for wild quail and Russian 

boar hunting while in season. March 

and April are prime months for trophy 

Red-Stag hunting. Please inquire for hunting 

details and how you can combine some 

fishing with hunting at Alicura. 

Non-Angling Activities: 

Alicura is perhaps the best Patagonian option 

to consider if you have a non-angling 

companion(s) in tow. The ranch is set up to 

entertain couples and families with a very laid 

back and hospitable guest ranching program. 

View a stay at Alicura as a “Summer Camp” 

type of experience with a 200,000 acre playground 

with tons of non-fishing activities such 

as horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, river 

rafting, camping, water skiing (Alicura has a 

20,000 acre lake with ski boats), swimming in 

the pool, or even organized cooking lessons. 

San Carlos de Bariloche 

is only a little over an 

hour from the ranch. Ladies 

in the group always 

enjoy cruising to town 

for shopping, restaurants, 

golf courses, spa services, 

or just a change of scenery. 

Bariloche is a beautiful 

little mountain town 

--- Argentina’s answer to 

Aspen or Jackson Hole. 

22 

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ESTANCIA ALICURA


2011 RATES 


Fishing Packages 

U$D 750 per person, per night (1 guide for 2 anglers) based on double occupancy 

U$D 850 per person, per night (1 guide for 1 angler) based on single occupancy 

Non-Angling Packages 

U$D 375 per person based on double occupancy 

Arrival Day/Night 

U$D 375 per person based on double occupancy 

What’s Included 

Accommodations as Specified; Guided fishing; Three meals daily; Beverages (Argentine Wines 

and Cocktails); Ground transportation to/from Bariloche, the lodge, and fishing areas; Fishing 

gear and tackle 

What’s Not Included 

Round-trip Airfare to/from Buenos Aires; Round-trip airfare to/from Buenos Aires and Bariloche; 

Hotel Accommodations in Buenos Aires; Ground transportation in Buenos Aires to/from 

airports and hotels; Fishing licenses ($50 per person / week); Gratuities; Items of personal 

nature including telephone calls; Laundry service; Airport departure taxes; Meals, Tours and 

other services in Buenos Aires; Personal travel expenses 

Terms and Conditions: 

Tailwaters Travel must adhere to the cancellation 

policies of the guides, outfitters and 

lodges which it represents. Robert’s Grove’s 

policy follows: Deposit of 50% per person 

is required to hold both space and guides on 

all packages. No space or guides will be held 

without receipt of deposit. Full pre-payment 

is due 60 days prior to arrival. Cancellations 

made prior to 60 days before arrival are 

granted a full refund minus $100 per person 

Given 

Given 

the 

the 

inherent 

inherent 

strict 

strict 

refund 

refund 

policies 

policies 

associated 

associated 

with 

with 

nearly 

nearly 

all 

all 

fishing 

fishing 

packages, 

packages, 

we 

we 

cannot 

cannot 

stress 

stress 

the 

the 

importance 

importance 

of 

of 

obtaining 

obtaining 

travel 

travel 

insurance 

insurance 

to 

to 

protect 

protect 

your 

your 

investment. 

investment. 

Travelers 

Travelers 

can 

can 

obtain 

obtain 

coverage 

coverage 

for 

for 

pre-existing 

pre-existing 

health 

health 

problems 

problems 

(related 

(related 

to 

to 

yourself, 

yourself, 

your 

your 

family, 

family, 

business 

business 

partners, 

partners, 

or 

or 

your 

your 

traveling 

traveling 

partners), 

partners), 

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emergency 

evacuation, 

evacuation, 

lost 

lost 

baggage, 

baggage, 

delay, 

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life 

insurance 

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packages; 

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even 

even 

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We 

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cancellation fee. Between 60 - 45 days a 50% 

refund is granted. Less than 45 days may not 

be transferred or refunded. . Refunds of deposits/payments 

made on credit cards will be 

charged a 3.5% service charge to fully compensate 

Tailwaters Travel for all bank charges 

incurred. Receipt of deposit and/or final payment 

is acknowledgement that registrant has 

read and accepts the cancellation, refund and 

responsibility clauses. 

Photo Credits: Rice Jackson, George Criddle, Cole & Macon Clarkson, David Winter, 

Bill Carpenter, Tailwaters Travel 

T r a v e l i n s u r a n c e ! 

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INVESTMENT: 

INVESTMENT: 

(214) 

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or 

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26 

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ooking a Trip with Tailwaters 

PRE TRIP PLANNING 

Seriously - the best in the business! 

When you book a trip with us you will receive one of our destination specific outfitting guides. 

These comprehensive packets contain everything from maps to gear & tackle recommendations, 

information about commercial travel arrangements, lodge policy, country information, itinerary, 

travel insurance and much more. Our outfitting guides have been meticulously prepared to 

provide you with the most informative and up to date pre-trip planning reference in the industry. 

Although we are always on call at the office, our outfitting guides are the ultimate go-to resource 

for questions or concerns about planning your trip. 

Tailwaters Fly Fishing Co. 

2416 McKinney Ave. 

Dallas, Tx. 75201 

214.219.2500 

888.824-5420 

©2010 TAILWATERS TRAVEL

ESTANCIA ALICURA Central Patagonia - Tailwaters Fly Fishing Co.

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