The Falkland Islands have long fascinated travellers from around the world. Scattered across the South Atlantic, this remote archipelago of more than 700 islands offers exceptional sea trout fishing, spectacular wildlife and a warm welcome from its people.

For the travelling angler, the Falklands offer something genuinely distinctive. The islands are home to a remarkable number of rivers, streams and estuaries, many of which hold excellent populations of hard-fighting sea trout. Combined with dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife and a sense of genuine remoteness, the Falklands make for a fishing destination unlike any other.

Fishing in the Falkland Islands

The Falklands have a climate broadly comparable to that of Great Britain, although winters are generally milder and summers cooler. Wind is a constant feature of life on the islands, while annual rainfall is relatively low, averaging between 14 and 25 inches.

Many of the rivers are shallow, slow-flowing and meandering, with spate conditions influencing water levels throughout the season. Several flow through peat catchments, giving the water its distinctive tea colour.

Sea trout average between 3 and 8lb, although fish of 9–10lb are not unusual, and considerably larger specimens are possible. The Falklands record stands at more than 22lb.

Chartres River

The Chartres is one of the Falklands' most productive rivers and a favourite among visiting anglers. While larger sea trout are occasionally encountered, the river is particularly well known for its numbers of fish in the 3–6lb range and for its remarkable consistency, with double-figure catches possible.

Smaller than the Warrah, the Chartres rises in the south-western foothills of the Hornby Mountains and flows for approximately 15 miles before entering the sea at Christmas Harbour.

Murrell River

The Murrell offers excellent sea trout fishing in both the river and its estuary. Around seven miles in length, it rises on the eastern slopes of Mount Vernet before flowing eastwards into a four-mile-long estuary north of Stanley.

San Carlos River

Wide and meandering, the San Carlos offers several miles of attractive fishing water and can reach up to 40 yards across in places. It rises between Wickham Heights and White Mountain before flowing into Falkland Sound via its long estuary and Port San Carlos. The river is also within easy driving distance of Stanley.

Warrah River

Rising in the foothills of Mount Robinson and Muffler Jack Mountain at the northern end of West Falkland, the Warrah is approximately 20 miles long. It offers excellent sea trout fishing and has developed a particular reputation for the quality and size of its fish rather than sheer numbers.

Frying Pan

Located alongside the Mount Pleasant to Stanley road, Frying Pan is a wider stretch of water with straightforward bank access. Waders are useful and allow anglers to make the most of the available water.

Swan Inlet

Swan Inlet is situated on the Mount Pleasant to Darwin road. Good fishing can be found below the bridge, with easy access on foot. The estuary is relatively shallow, and fishing a rising tide can be both safe and highly productive.

Estuary Fishing

The Falklands' estuaries provide another exciting dimension to a fishing trip. Excellent fishing can be found close to the lodge at Port Howard, including Culverts Pool and Boundary Creek, while tidal areas within easy reach of Stanley can also offer very good sport.

When river conditions are less favourable, estuary fishing provides an excellent alternative for sea trout, with the added possibility of encountering mullet.

Wildlife

The Falkland Islands are one of the world's great wildlife destinations, and combining a fishing trip with time to explore the islands is highly recommended.

Whether you are a dedicated ornithologist or simply enjoy being surrounded by wildlife, the Falklands offer extraordinary opportunities for observation. Many species are remarkably approachable, making wildlife encounters an integral part of the experience.

The islands are home to an exceptional variety of birdlife, including species such as the flightless steamer duck and the striking striated caracara. Elsewhere, the sheer abundance of wildlife can be extraordinary, with colonies containing thousands of rockhopper penguins.

A fishing trip to the Falklands offers far more than time on the water. It is an opportunity to experience one of the most remote and fascinating corners of the South Atlantic, combining excellent sea trout fishing with spectacular scenery and some of the finest wildlife viewing anywhere in the world.

For a more detailed introduction to the islands and their remarkable wildlife, visit our sister brand, Windows on the Wild: Explore the Falkland Islands

Please contact us to discuss a bespoke Falkland Islands fishing itinerary. We would be delighted to help you plan your trip.