Kirby Kramer: Strobel Lake Fly Fishing Report

Strobel Lake  Fly Fishing Lodge
Jan 11 – 18, 2020

The five hour drive in to the Estancia is a little bone jarring the last hour or so… But once you arrive, the accommodations are extremely comfortable. And the friendly staff goes out of its way to make you feel welcome. The meals also are truly outstanding, especially in the evenings.

The cuisine would make a 3-star restaurant in Buenos Aires restaurant jealous. Our guide for the week was Ivan and he was as good as I’ve experienced anywhere. He knew the water, was incredibly patient and as knowledgeable as they come. Zack and I enjoyed his company and appreciated all the hard work he did for us.

The wind never stopped blowing the entire week we were there and reached as high as 60 mph gusts the afternoon of our last day. This obviously makes casting (and to a certain degree standing) challenging.

The largest fish in our party was 19 ½ pounds. Zack caught a 15 pounder and we both caught 14-pound fish. At the same time, we were a little surprised at how difficult it could be to get a hook-up at times. Some days we might catch 6 or 7 good fish, but other days we, and others in the party, were shut out.

Although the water was low due to the time of year, we did fish the river one day and thoroughly enjoyed it, although the force of the wind made accurate casting nearly impossible.

The warming hut was extremely comfortable and the meals the guides prepared were delicious. Unlimited quantities of Malbec definitely enhanced the noontime meals and the makeup of the group was very interesting and convivial.

At this point I should probably add that the entire guide staff of seven individuals was as friendly and professional as any I have ever experienced. We admired their proficiency and enjoyed their company.

I think the high points for me were the incredible setting of the Estancia; the lunar-like appearance of Strobel Lake; the huge rainbow trout that are probably not to be experienced anywhere else in the world; the fabulous evening cuisine; the size of the fish right in front of the lodge; and the attitude and performance of the guiding staff.

On the other hand, the difficulty of fishing in gale force winds and the bone-jarring daily rides to Strobel Lake in the 4-wheel drive trucks were less appealing.

All in all, fishing Strobel Lake from Estancia Laguna Verde was one of the most memorable experiences of my fishing life. My son and I thought we were very fortunate to have had the experience.

• My consultant’s communication before, during and after the trip was good.
• My consultant was very knowledgeable, and a pleasure to talk to.
• Overall, my trip was a great experience.
• My outfitter’s communication before, during and after the trip was perfect, I couldn’t have asked for more.
• My guide was amazing.
• Physically, the trip was difficult.
• The food was amazing.
• The accommodations were amazing.
• Would you book another trip with us in the future? Yes
• Can we use your stories and/or photos on our website? Yes
• Can we use this in social media? Yes

Thank you Outdoors International!

It was an amazing steelhead fishing trip! I brought my dad along with me and we slayed the fish. If you guys aren't applying for the OI Draws, you should. They're legit!

Tyler Kirk / OI Draw Winner

I couldn't believe we won!

We won this fully guided, all-inclusive New Zealand red stag hunt in the OI Draw! I highly recommend this hunt, and Outdoors International—fantastic company, amazing meals, and hunts that are second to none.

Brandon Ball / OI Draw Winner

I'm so grateful for the opportunity!

Thank you to Outdoors International, all the PH's and their awesome staff. I made some new friends and will be back to Africa again 100%.

Brye Mangum / OI Draw Winner

My most memorable and rewarding experience.

This was my first guided hunt, and the outfitter was amazing. He was able to keep me motivated and encouraged to hold out for true trophies. I would rate him on an 11 on a scale of 1 to 10! I never thought Africa would be a reality for me. Thank you Outdoors International.

Dason Lasater / OI Draw Winner

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