Here, the rainbow trout fishing is one of the most inhospitable and extreme of all the country.

“Strobel Lake” is located in the central plateau of Santa Cruz province, which has approximately 20 km long and 15 km wide and is 900 meters above sea level. It is a desert area, very rugged, with very little vegetation and full of volcanic rock, which makes it very difficult to reach. In fact, the last few miles are done very slowly to avoid damaging the trucks. You can see plenty of species of migratory birds and some endemic species such as the Hooded Grebe. Also, in the area inhabit lots of wild pumas (a large feline that resembles a lion) and guanacos (similar to a llama).

Even though we all see pictures, watch videos and read comments of other travelers before making our own trip, it is very hard to put in words or pictures how it is here in this wonderful fishing place, where is found one of the largest and wildest rainbow trout populations of the planet. Not only is the size of these fish what amazes people, but also, their vitality and strength.

It is possible to catch trouts in between 4.4 pounds and 26 pounds, with an average size of 11 pounds; and it is not crazy to think that with the lake in good condition, an average angler can get 30, 40 or even more of these fish.

It is hard to think that a fish of this size has so much energy during “the fight”, creating endless runs and jumping over and over again. With this in mind, there are plenty of different possibilities and options for anglers. You can choose to fish in the lake with heavy hand equipment or with a two handed #7, and a streamer or tube fly. Or you can fish in the area close to the mouth of the only stream that enters the lake area, the Barrancoso River, since this is an obligatory route for the trouts that try to enter the River. In the area near the mouth, we can try with lighter equipment, depending on the strength of the wind. But, there is no doubt that the most intense experience is exploring the crystal clear water of the Barrancoso River.

Our stay was fantastic; the staff of the lodge is always paying attention to the guest’s needs, the food is excellent and the guides are very professional. And most important of all: “the fishing was from another planet”.