Like most Patagonian trout rivers, the Malleo originates in a lake, high in the Andean Mountains. Nestled in the folds of dormant Lanín Volcano and surrounded by forests, Lake Tromen spills its waters to form the Malleo which then flows east for 30 miles to join the Aluminé river. The river is lined with a pebble bottom the river offering a healthy habitat for both rainbows and browns amongst some of the most breathtaking landscapes we've ever experienced.

With such epic views and amazing looking trout conditions you'd think it would be like shooting fish in a barrel, but make no mistake, to fish these waters took some serious skill.  The width of the river was about 30ft at its narrowest and both banks were lined with willow trees.  If you aren't familiar with a willow tree Google them, because these bad boys were pretty much God's way of keeping fly fishermen honest.  Throw in medium gusting winds and fluctuating current speeds and it meant that not only did you need to thread the perfect cast into a 2ft circle that was surrounded by willow branches, but the line had to be mended constantly from when the line touched the water.  Some of the most difficult fishing we had ever done, but also the most rewarding making this trip a must do for any serious angler.  See more from our Angler Collection to get all the gear for your next fly fishing adventure. 

Catch of the day goes to @chrispauljacobs

To see more from our trip to Patagonia check out the Over + Under Journal:

• Patagonia Lake Fishing | Rio Manso Argentina
• Traditional Meats of Argentina