How to protect fly fishing gear during the Patagonian winter

The Patagonian winter brings extreme cold and humidity that can prematurely degrade technical materials if not properly treated at the end of the season in May. At Outfitters Patagonia, as providers of Orvis Endorsed gear, we follow a strict protocol to ensure that rods, reels, and waders maintain peak performance for the next season opening in November.

How to protect fly fishing gear during the Patagonian winter

1. Waders and Boots: Preventing Material Degradation

The primary enemy of waders during the off-season is residual moisture and mildew.

  • Technical Wash: Clean your waders with fresh water to remove river sediment and organic debris.

  • Total Drying: Dry them completely, first inside out and then right side out, in the shade. Never store them wet in plastic bags.

  • Storage: Hang them by the feet or lay them flat in a dry, dark place to prevent breathable membranes from cracking due to temperature fluctuations.

2. Lines and Reels: Removing Residue

Water from the rivers in Bariloche can contain minerals and sediments that affect buoyancy and drag systems.

  • Line Cleaning: Run the line through a damp cloth with neutral soap, then apply a line conditioner to prevent the coating from becoming brittle in the cold.

  • Reels: Disassemble the spool, rinse with fresh water, and apply a drop of specific lubricant to the shaft. Store the reel with the drag completely loosened to avoid deforming the friction discs.

3. Rods: Safety Inspection

  • Ferrule Cleaning: Clean the ferrules with a dry cloth to remove wax or dirt buildup.

  • Guide Review: Inspect the guides for cracks that could damage your line in the future. Store the rod in its cloth sock and rigid tube to prevent accidental damage during the winter.

Comprehensive Solution for Your Next Expedition

If your gear requires an upgrade after an intense season on the Limay River or the Manso River, Outfitters Patagonia provides expert advice on selecting new Orvis equipment. Furthermore, we remind you that our All-inclusive trips include the use of this professional gear at no extra cost, ensuring you always fish with state-of-the-art technology.

Plan your return to Patagonia: