01 ·
Rio Simpson
PatagoniaRainbow Trout
South America · Fishing World Guide
Chile.
Fishing in Chile 2026 — Licenses, Regulations & Best Spots
6
target species
Yes
license needed
Mar–Dec
best season
Scroll
Do you need a license?
License
Yes.
Tourist license: From 15,000 CLP (~15 USD). Seasonal card: From 25,000 CLP (~25 USD).
›All license details
- Where to apply?
- Online at Servicio Nacional de Pesca (SERNAPESCA) or at local fishing shops.
- Cost
- Tourist license: From 15,000 CLP (~15 USD). Seasonal card: From 25,000 CLP (~25 USD).
- Validity
- Daily, monthly or seasonal cards (Season: October-May)
- Available online?
- Yes
Chile has a simple licensing system via SERNAPESCA. Freshwater fishing always requires a license. Saltwater fishing from shore is partially free. Patagonia offers some of the best trout waters in South America!
When to go?
The season at a glance.
Best season
November to April (Freshwater season). December-March optimal. Saltwater: Year-round.
Where to fish?
The top waters.
02 ·
Lago Llanquihue
Volcanic backdropTrout
03 ·
Rio Palena
remotehuge Trout
04 ·
Futaleufu
Whitewater + Trout
05 ·
Chiloe Coast
Salmonsea fishing
What's biting?
Your target species.
›+1 more species
Coho Salmon
The rules.
Four things you need to know.
Closed seasons
Closed seasons
Trout and salmon: May to September/October (closed season). Varies by region.
Catch limits
Catch limits
Trout: 3-5 per day depending on region. Salmon: 2-3 per day. Observe minimum sizes.
Prohibited methods
Prohibited methods
Live bait fish prohibited. On many rivers only fly fishing or single hook permitted.
Catch & release
Catch & release
Widely practiced and recommended, especially for large trout and in premium waters.
What does it cost?
15-25 USD
License
15-25 USD for tourists (daily or seasonal card)
300-500 USD
Guide per day
300-500 USD/day. Premium lodge: 500-1,000 USD/day (all-inclusive).
80-150 USD
Daily budget
Budget: 80-150 USD (camping, own equipment). Premium: 400-1,000 USD/day (lodge).
Bite times
The best fishing times — free.
Best fishing times
·Chile-35.68°, -71.54°
🎣 Live catches in chile
3 verified catches
Not enough data (3 catches)
Bite-time forecast appears from 5 catches.
Plan your trip.
Everything in one place.
All the details
The fine print.
License in detail
Online at Servicio Nacional de Pesca (SERNAPESCA) or at local fishing shops. — Chile has a simple licensing system via SERNAPESCA. Freshwater fishing always requires a license. Saltwater fishing from shore is partially free. Patagonia offers some of the best trout waters in South America!
Rules in detail
Chile has excellent trout waters populated by introduced rainbow and brown trout. Native fish species are strictly protected!
Freshwater
Volcanic lakes, glacier-fed rivers and pristine Patagonian wilderness. Huge trout in crystal-clear water.
Saltwater
6,400 km Pacific coastline. Less developed than freshwater, but growing.
Equipment
Good fishing shops in Pucon, Puerto Montt and Coyhaique. Recommended to bring fly fishing equipment.
Guides
Patagonia guides: 300-500 USD/day. Lodge packages: 400-800 USD/day. Heli-fishing possible!
Getting there
Flights to Santiago, then domestic flight to Temuco, Puerto Montt or Balmaceda. Car rental in Patagonia.
Safety
Patagonia: Extreme wind! Weather changes quickly. UV radiation high even in the south.
Customs & fish export
Fishing equipment easily imported. Fruit and food strictly controlled!
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All information without guarantee. Always check with the official local authorities. Not legal advice. Last updated: April 1, 2026
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