Ed Blank's Adventures Main Page
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the trip start? The trips begin in Esquina, Argentina. To get to Esquina there are several options: Groups of 4 or more can charter a flight directly to Esquina for around $250 each. Less than 4 people can fly a commercial flight to Parana about a 2 hour drive from Esquina( about $250 for the flight and $50 for the ground transfer. Another (actually my favorite) is the overnight sleeper bus from Buenos Aires to Esquina. It leaves BA at 10 pm and gets to Esquina at dawn. The seats are wider and recline farther than first class airline seats. You will actually sleep! This only costs about $60 each .
How much does it cost to get to Buenos Aires? My last ticket from Boston to Buenos Aires was $900 ( through Orbitz) Getting to Esquina will add $60-$300 Depending on the method you choose.
Do the guides speak English? Yes, all our guides speak English as well as Spanish.
Do you have access to private water? Argentina is like Alaska, once we are on the river there is no private water. There is lots of private access over land that many lodges own, but once on the river we are able to fish right through "private water". we have leased key access rights in the areas we launch and take out.
Is it safe in Argentina with all I hear about the economy? You could argue that it is less safe in Buenos Aires but it would still compare to any major city here in the US. If the CNN cameras are on you will find a group protesting the governments handling of the economy. When the economy first collapsed there was some violence that erupted but now it has settled in and I did not feel uncomfortable at all in Buenos Aires. Esquina is as safe and quiet as ever and you would never know the economy is bad. The peso has been devaluated so the deals are tremendous . Anything made in Argentina will be half the price you would expect.
How many fish do you catch? A good day will be 20-30 fish and a bad day is 3-4 fish. The most common size dorado is 3-5 pounds with fish 5-9 pounds fairly common and the 9-20 pounders a once a week occurrence.
Do you need a visa for Argentina? All you need to bring is your passport. We will take care of all other documentation, your fishing license will be purchased with the aid of your guides.
What unexpected charges are we likely to find? Depending on your flights from the states, you may or may not need a hotel in Buenos Aires. Most flights land in the morning from the US. You will need to transfer to the local airport from the international airport by taxi, expect a $20-30 cab fare. ( we can also provide an escort through customs in Buenos Aires that will then drive you to the domestic airport and help you check luggage, and find your gate, figure about $75 per person if you elect this service) After that you will be fed and housed by us at the lodge. No charges there except for alcohol. The last place to spend money is the tip for your guide. A 10% tip is average - divided between the guides and the lodge staff.
Are there bugs? Although it is a sub tropical area, the bugs are minimal during the day but at dusk the mosquitoes can gather in a hurry.
What is the weather like? The weather will be 70-90 degrees each day. There is some chance of rain depending on the season. Most of the wading is wet wading.
Ed Blank's Adventures Main Page
PO BOX 180446 BOSTON MA 02118
Phone: 888-857-6700
Fax: 617-427-7890
ed@flyfishingheaven.com