Ringing in 2026 in Patagonia:
A Once‑in‑a‑Lifetime Adventure at Spring Creek Lodge
There are trips you plan, and then there are trips that change the way you see the world. Kicking off 2026 under the warm skies of Patagonia—while Wisconsin froze behind me—was the latter. Spring Creek Lodge in Junín de los Andes promised wild trout, world‑class hospitality, and the kind of untouched landscapes that make you feel like an explorer stepping into a new chapter of your life.
It delivered all of that… and more.
A Taste of Buenos Aires
After a 10‑hour overnight flight from Atlanta, we touched down in Buenos Aires—a vibrant, artistic, endlessly colorful city that immediately pulled us in. We wandered through the iconic Boca neighborhood, soaked in the elegance of Recoleta, and explored the city’s famous cemetery before indulging in an empanada lunch.
Dinner? Rufino’s Steakhouse. A decadent blur of wine, steak, and zero respect for my New Year’s resolutions.
A Five‑Star Welcome in Patagonia
A short flight later, we arrived at Spring Creek Lodge, where the staff made us feel like long‑lost friends finally returning home. With incredible meals, craft cocktails, and a serene mountain backdrop, it was clear: we had entered adventure‑luxury heaven.
While other guests rigged rods and tied leaders, I had a different mission—two full days of non‑angling adventures with my wife. And truthfully? They became some of the highlights of the week.
Hiking a Volcano in Senda al Volcan Achen Ñiyeu
Our first excursion took us to the summit of a volcano. Yes—a volcano.
Ringing in 2026 in Patagonia:
A Once‑in‑a‑Lifetime Adventure at Spring Creek Lodge
There are trips you plan, and then there are trips that change the way you see the world. Kicking off 2026 under the warm skies of Patagonia—while Wisconsin froze behind me—was the latter. Spring Creek Lodge in San Martín de los Andes promised wild trout, world‑class hospitality, and the kind of untouched landscapes that make you feel like an explorer stepping into a new chapter of your life.
It delivered all of that… and more.
A Taste of Buenos Aires
After a 10‑hour overnight flight from Atlanta, we touched down in Buenos Aires—a vibrant, artistic, endlessly colorful city that immediately pulled us in. We wandered through the iconic Boca neighborhood, soaked in the elegance of Recoleta, and explored the city’s famous cemetery before indulging in an empanada lunch.
Dinner? Rufino’s Steakhouse. A decadent blur of wine, steak, and zero respect for my New Year’s resolutions.
A Five‑Star Welcome in Patagonia
A short flight later, we arrived at Spring Creek Lodge, where the staff made us feel like long‑lost friends finally returning home. With incredible meals, craft cocktails, and a serene mountain backdrop, it was clear: we had entered adventure‑luxury heaven.
While other guests rigged rods and tied leaders, I had a different mission—two full days of non‑angling adventures with my wife. And truthfully? They became some of the highlights of the week.
Hiking a Volcano in Senda al Volcan Achen Ñiyeu
Our first excursion took us to the summit of a volcano. Yes—a volcano.
Three thousand feet of elevation gain, finishing with a brutally steep final stretch. But the payoff was pure magic: sweeping views of untouched forests, rugged volcanic terrain, and a trail so quiet it felt like our own private corner of Patagonia.
Kayaking & Farm‑to‑Table Bliss
Monday brought calm waters and mountain reflections as we kayaked across a deserted alpine lake. That afternoon, we enjoyed a slow, indulgent eight‑course farm‑to‑table meal at a local ranch—with mountains rising behind us like silent guardians.
The Fishing Begins: Overnight on the Chimehuin
On Tuesday, it was finally my turn. The Chimehuin River—clear, emerald, and wildly pristine—welcomed us for a two‑day float and glamping experience. I quickly made up for lost time, hooking powerful rainbows and a thick‑shouldered brown trout.
Our riverside glamp camp was straight out of a Patagonia dream: canvas tents, cozy cots, a stocked bar, Malbec by the bottle, gourmet food, and stars so bright they seemed close enough to touch.
Wind, Wild Trout, and Big Water
Day four brought Patagonia’s signature wind—40 mph straight downstream—but not before another morning of strong fishing. After battling the elements, arriving back at the lodge to warm showers, cocktails, and a refined dinner felt like the perfect contrast to a rugged day on the river.
Solo Day on the Collon Cura
Day five brought a treat: a solo float with guide Diego. We started with dry‑dropper rigs—PMXs and perdigons enticing hungry rainbows—before switching to streamers. My Orvis Recon and Helios rods got a workout, and the fishing was matched only by the conversation, the laughter, and the shared passion for the craft.
Lake Tromen: The Grand Finale
Our final day was nothing short of spectacular. Lake Tromen—remote, glassy, breathtaking—fished like a dream. Big foam dries. Dragonfly patterns. Rising trout that crushed anything skittered across the surface.
A 19‑inch brook trout ate my dry, sealing the week with a moment I’ll never forget.
With winds often shutting down the lake, I felt incredibly lucky to experience it.
Join Me in 2027 or 2028
If this kind of warm‑weather January escape calls to you, I’m planning to host a trip to Spring Creek Lodge in January 2027 and 2028. It’s the perfect blend of adventure, luxury, and accessibility—ideal for anglers and non‑anglers alike.
And once you’re there? Everything is covered: rods, reels, waders, flies, meals, experiences, and world‑class hospitality. Just show up and let Patagonia do the rest.
This wasn’t just a fishing trip.
It was a once‑in‑a‑lifetime journey.
And I’d love to share it with you.