Patagonia Reflections

If I’ve learned anything through counseling over the years, it’s that looking back should happen only for reflection. Thankfully, I’m not living in the past, but a review of the growth one has achieved & memories stored can be beneficial; looking back is an important way of seeing how much we are progressing, evolving, changing and living to create our own path in life. Fish so happen to live in amazing places, and venturing into dream-destinations which hold their own unique challenges with a group of people who share similar passions, becomes a lot like the burnt ends of a fine steak that deserves to be savored and finished with a smooth chocolate.

 

In 2020, Joel and I made a hit list of fishing adventures that might appeal to both of us. Horseback riding through the Sierras for Golden Trout was the first bucket list item we checked off with our sites focused on Patagonia in 2025. It’s really amazing how quickly time flies and then if you don’t make a plan, things are just left to chance. And in hosting a group trip, having a clear plan of action that meets the fishing requirements as well as the personal details of quality food and accommodations is, let’s say, a challenge!

 

Venturing all the way to Argentina for the first time meant that I wanted an overall experience, more than just a singular river or lodge. I know this came with some risks, but it was worth it to me to be able to analyze more closely what I would be hoping for in the future. Chocolate Lab Expeditions CEO and founder, Ron Sorenson, has been an industry professional and friend to Joel for over 25 years. In setting up his business in Patagonia and having a few state side clients visit his operations, I knew without question he was my go to guy over any other recommendation. Ron’s attention to detail and willingness to work with our group in transporting us every 3 days to a new lodge, with a new fishing experience and guides, was important to me and our combined efforts made for an overall success I will never forget.

 

If you’ve traveled much at all, you know full well, that the fishing always ends up being about so much more than the fish in the net. The people who make up all the brilliant moments, the little details of sites and sounds that you see along the river, conversations shared on bus rides or while rigging up, stream side lunches and afternoon siestas; all the unique experiences that you would never have otherwise without saying yes to the trip are what keep me coming back to the calendar to plan for the next.

 

As a self-declared bird nerd, I will fully admit that I often miss fish because I was paying attention to a particular Avian species who’s suddenly captured my attention while flitting in and out of the bushes or hopping along the ground near the shoreline. When fishing with a guide, I usually apologize well in advanced and explain to them that if they shout “set” and I’m slightly delayed or fully unaware altogether, it’s not their fault and I don’t hold it against them for the day end Fish count. First of all, I don’t count how many fish I catch. Second of all, checking off new bird species is one of my all-time favorite hobbies, and getting to combine a rod in hand (other reel nerds will see what I did there) AND making great casts far outweighs a lucky strike. All in all, I’m immensely appreciative to be able to combine two of my most favorite hobbies with my beloved husband. Sharing all of these experiences with someone to whom I learn from everyday, laugh with hourly and admire so sincerely is the most fulfilling and satisfying reality of peace I could ever ask for in my life.

 

We are already looking to return to Patagonia in 2026 and out of all of the adventures I’ve had over the last several decades, this destination has by far and away been my favorite; I so hope you consider joining us.