I have been fortunate to explore many regions of Patagonia over the past several decades. The people, the culture, and the fly-fishing opportunities have always felt inviting and restorative. Much has changed since the early days, when I first brought single-man pontoon boats into the region. The growth in fly-fishing popularity, increased fishing pressure, and the effects of a warming climate have undeniably altered the landscape.
I just returned from a sixteen-day sojourn and, for the first time, never wore waders—something that would have been unthinkable years ago. While it is still possible to find extraordinary fisheries and spend days without seeing another angler, doing so now requires more effort and intention than it once did.
Even so, Patagonia continues to offer moments of solitude and wonder. My hope is to keep escaping the dark, cold winters of Washington to experience the warmth, freedom, and quiet beauty of Patagonia for as long as I am able.
I just returned from a sixteen-day sojourn and, for the first time, never wore waders—something that would have been unthinkable years ago. While it is still possible to find extraordinary fisheries and spend days without seeing another angler, doing so now requires more effort and intention than it once did.
Even so, Patagonia continues to offer moments of solitude and wonder. My hope is to keep escaping the dark, cold winters of Washington to experience the warmth, freedom, and quiet beauty of Patagonia for as long as I am able.
