Fly fishing in Patagonia

8 January 2025

A French Fly-Fishing Guide in Patagonia: My Journey with Bestard Canyon Guide Boots

As a French fly-fishing guide based in the heart of Patagonia for over 12 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the stunning beauty and raw power of nature. My lodge, located two hours from Coyhaique and 1,500 kilometers south of Santiago, Chile, is nestled in a remote valley by a pristine river. Powered by solar energy, we offer a sustainable and eco-conscious experience for anglers who are as passionate about preserving nature as they are about fly fishing.

A Commitment to Responsible Fly Fishing

At our lodge, catch-and-release fly fishing is not just a practice—it’s a philosophy. We use only barbless hooks, and our rivers are divided into beats to prevent overfishing. We also clean up any waste we find along the way, doing our part to protect these waters. More importantly, we work together with the local fishermen to improve on sustainable practices, enhancing the importance of caring for their natural resources. And it’s working:

The trout are growing larger, and the rivers are getting cleaner year by year

The Search for the Perfect Fishing Gear

Over the years, I’ve developed partnerships with French brands to equip our lodge with high-quality rods, reels, waders, and other gear. However, when it came to finding the right footwear, I initially avoided the well-known U.S. brands, hesitant to invest over €300 in a pair. Instead, I turned to cheaper alternatives from China. Unfortunately, that decision came at a cost. Some shoes lasted just two days before falling apart, while others would become dangerously slick after only a few weeks of use.

The anglers I hosted faced similar frustrations, with some bringing their own expensive but impractical shoes. Many of these high-end options were more suited for moonwalking than navigating rugged fishing terrain. As the saying goes, “The shoemaker goes barefoot”—but I knew something had to change.

Discovering Bestard Canyon Guide Boots

In September 2017, I bought my first pair of Bestard Canyon Guide boots. From the moment I slipped them on, I was impressed. By the end of my first fishing season with them, I was so satisfied with their performance that I reached out to Bestard to congratulate them and propose a partnership to promote these incredible shoes to my clients.

Seven years later, a few stubborn fishermen still cling to their 2-kilo boots, but the vast majority are convinced after just one day of testing and return with their own pair of Bestard Canyon Guide Why? There are several reasons:

Why Bestard Canyon Guide Shoes Are the Best Choice for Fly Fishing

1. Comfort and Flexibility: The lightweight, flexible material of these shoes makes them incredibly comfortable, even during long days of fishing. Unlike leather models, they’re easy to put on and take off, even when dry—a blessing when you’re tired after a full day on the river.

2. Ease of Use: Fly fishermen aren’t always the most agile, especially after a long day in waders and fishing gear. The ease of putting on these shoes without contorting yourself helps avoid cramps from day one.

3. Exceptional Grip and Safety: The Vibram® sole provides excellent grip on all terrains, making long walks to remote fishing spots safer and more enjoyable. The curved sole design strikes a perfect balance between rigidity and flexibility, allowing for precise foot placement. Plus, the sole’s design reduces the risk of spreading invasive species like Didymo, making it perfect for travel.

4. Ankle Support and Protection: The ankle support is solid, the lacing system is simple yet efficient, and the reinforced toe box adds durability. Additionally, the elastic closure around the ankle keeps out mud and sand, so your feet stay clean and dry.

5. Durability: I’ve used the same pair of Bestard Canyon Guide boots for seven full seasons. While the sole has naturally worn down slightly, all eyelets, seams, and closures remain intact, and there are no holes or significant damage—a testament to their incredible durability.

6. Quick Drying: Anglers love that these shoes dry quickly, so they can be packed light the day after a fishing session, helping avoid overweight luggage fees.

Conclusion

It’s been a joy introducing my clients to the Bestard Canyon Guide shoes, knowing they’ll experience the same comfort, durability, and safety I’ve come to rely on. These shoes have truly transformed my guiding experience, and it’s a pleasure to continue sharing them with the fly-fishing community.

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