As fall fly fishing season quickly approaches, the summer fly fishing vacation crowds die down and some of the best trout fishing of the year comes to life.
In the Rocky Mountain region, cooler weather and cold water temperatures trigger late-season hatches, and more aggressive feeding behavior from trout.
"They can feel the seasonal change and know winter is coming, which creates an urgency to consume more calories," advises The World's Best Fly Fishing Vacations' angling aficionado and author, Zach Lazzari.
"For passionate anglers, this is the perfect time to plan an unforgettable fall fly fishing trip."
Read on for more of Zach's expert advice about fall fly fishing vacations in the Rockies and Patagonia.
Fall fly fishing in the Rockies
The best U.S. states for fall trout fishing
If you have time for a fly fishing trip this fall, fly fishing lodges in Colorado, fishing lodges in Wyoming, fishing lodges in Montana, Alaskan fishing lodges and Idaho fishing lodges all offer incredible fall fly fishing opportunities before winter sets in. These destinations are home to legendary rivers like the Madison, Snake and Big Horn, with world-class trout action and breathtaking scenery.
Fall brings consistent Blue Wing Olive hatches, midges and even late caddis activity. As the days shorten and water temperatures drop, trout feeding behavior becomes aggressive, creating thrilling conditions for anglers looking to target big browns and rainbows.
Why Alaska is a wild card
Alaskan fishing destinations have a shorter season than the lower 48, but it's absolutely worth considering visiting in September for late Sockeye salmon runs and even October, when some of the biggest rainbow trout of the year are caught. These fish are strong, fattened up from a summer of feeding and provide unforgettable fights.
"However, if your travel plans do not include fishing the Rocky Mountain states this fall, why not consider heading to fly fishing destinations in the Southern Hemisphere for spectacular trout fishing in Patagonia?" recommends Zach.
Patagonia fly fishing trips – Chile vs Argentina
When winter arrives in the northern hemisphere, Patagonia is just heating up, offering some of the most pristine waters on earth.
While Chile and Argentina share a border and many similarities on the fishing front, the two countries are starkly different when it comes to landscapes, culture and even the Spanish cadence.
"And don’t even ask about the proper way to brew and drink Mate!" says Zach, "Local traditions and preferences differ wildly, making for fun cultural exchanges while you're chasing trout
"So here are a few of the notable differences in the landscapes, access and culture of these two amazing countries. I love them both and you won't go wrong chasing trout in either!"
Fly fishing in Argentina
In Argentine Patagonia, private land ownership plays a huge role and massive Estancias (ranches) dominate many river valleys.
While Argentina has generous access laws allowing navigation within drainages, because of this land ownership, river access isn’t always easy.
"My top tip for fly fishing in Argentina", says Zach, "Is to choose an Argentinian fly fishing trip that's run by an outfitter, or fish directly through an Argentinian fly fishing lodge or Estancia to give you better access and accommodations right next to world-class water."
The Argentine landscape
Argentine Patagonia sits on the eastern side of the Andes, where a rain shadow in many places creates a unique landscape:
- Near the Andes: Wetter, lush environments with cold, clear streams.
- Moving east: Drier, windswept high steppes with broad rivers.
Many rivers are lake-fed, with flows driven by snowmelt and high-elevation moisture, making conditions similar to those found in the western U.S., particularly late in the season.
Fly fishing in Chile
In Chilean Patagonia, land ownership is generally more pastoral, with smaller acreage than Argentina and the lush landscape requires less land to sustain livestock like sheep.
Fly fishing access to rivers is often easier and many friendly landowners are welcoming to visiting anglers.
From Coyhaique south, the scenery shifts dramatically: think Pacific Northwest-style rainforests, rugged coastlines, and countless rivers and creeks that seem tailor-made for exploration.
Fishing in Chile's rain-dominated areas
Regions like Futaleufú, Chaitén, Palena and along the Carretera Austral receive significant rainfall year-round.
Peak summer brings slightly drier weather, but surprise downpours are common.
"The great news is," says Zach, "That the fly fishing in Chile remains strong, regardless of weather conditions.
"With so much water, only a fraction of rivers and lakes are fished regularly, leaving countless 'secret spots' to discover.
"While some coastal systems are essentially inaccessible, there are tons of lakes, streams and creeks that are accessible and ripe for exploration."
This abundance makes Chile an angler’s paradise, especially for adventurous travelers who love exploring untouched fisheries.
Check out some of the best fly fishing vacations in Chile!
What fish can you expect to catch in Patagonia?
"Both Chile and Argentina host anadromous runs of fish, but the species and fishing experiences differ significantly," advises Zach.
"Chile dominates with Pacific Ocean-connected rivers, home to massive King Salmon fresh out of saltwater.
"These fish are powerful, bright, and ideal for swinging flies, a rare and thrilling opportunity!"
Argentina, connected to the Atlantic Ocean, is famous for its sea-run brown trout, particularly in Tierra del Fuego.
These fish are legendary for their size and strength, offering some of the most celebrated fishing experiences in the world.
Argentina also receives small King Salmon runs, but they are typically degraded and not as reliable as Chile’s fisheries.
In Tierra del Fuego, where both countries overlap, anglers will find wide, windswept grasslands and private rivers filled with trophy sea-run browns.
Here, booking with a local Argentine fly fishing lodge or outfitter is essential for access to these exclusive waters.
When to plan your Patagonia and Rocky Mountain fishing trips
Timing is everything when planning an international fly fishing adventure!
The best time to fish in the Rockies
Fall in the northern hemisphere from September through October offers peak fall fishing, as aggressive trout feeding behavior and late-season hatches make this window a dream for anglers!
Book early for popular Rockies fly fishing destinations like Montana, Wyoming and Colorado.
The best time to fish in Patagonia
Patagonia’s prime season, spring and summer in the southern hemisphere, runs January through February, when rivers are in perfect condition.
November and December can also be excellent for early-season exploration with fewer crowds.
For King Salmon fishing in Chile, late February through March is ideal.
Check lodge availability here
Start planning your fall and winter fly fishing adventures today!
The late season is here, so break out your calendar and start planning! It’s not too late to secure space with some of the best guides and lodges in the Rocky Mountains, Patagonia and beyond.
Why not check out the five best must-visit trophy trout fishing destinations on the planet to get you started!
In a perfect world, you could:
Fish the Rockies in September or October, then head south to Patagonia for a winter getaway filled with wild trout and breathtaking scenery.
Whether you choose Chile’s lush, water-rich landscapes or Argentina’s wide-open estancias and iconic rivers, both countries offer:
- World-class trout fishing
- Warm, authentic hospitality
- Delicious food and local wines
Has all this got you inspired to travel the world with your rod? Here's where to fly fish all year round, top tips from an angling expert.
Wherever you decide to travel this season, enjoy the great outdoors, make memories on the water and as always, wishing you tight lines!
Did you like the sound of a fly fishing trip to Alaska, Patagonia or the Rockies?
Check our lodges' availability today!
Original article written by freelance writer and fishing aficionado, Zach Lazzari.
Co-written, edited and created by Kate Hammaren Travel Writing + Editing
About our author, Zach Lazzari
Zach Lazzari is a freelance outdoor writer, fly fisherman and full-time adventure traveler. After a decade of guiding anglers in Colorado, Montana, Alaska and Patagonia, he turned to the travel and media industry to continue pursuing new species in exciting locations. Zach has written for The Drake, Orvis, NRS, and many other brands and publications in the outdoor industry.