New Idea To Stop Invasive Species Spreading To Chilean Patagonia

Article Date: January 2010

Now here's a proactive idea coming out of the wilds of Chilean Patagonia! It's safe to say that most Angling Report subscribers are aware of the problems created by invasive species in trout and salmon streams. The list is scary: whirling disease, Didymo (commonly known as "Rock Snot"), New Zealand mud snails.... They all can (and have) literally altered, if not destroyed, fisheries forever.

One of the major problems is, these invaders can easily hitchhike on angling gear, especially felt-soled wading boots. For years now, Iceland has required anglers to use new-from-the-box gear or have it sterilized (a fairly Draconian process) and certified before it can be used in their waters. New Zealand has been active in this area as well.

Enter Marcel Sijnesael who owns and operates two lodges on the pristine waters of Patagonian Chile: The Patagonian Base Camp Lodge on the Río Palena; and The Temple Camp on the Río Figueroa. To keep these virgin streams safe, Marcel has purchased dozens of Korkers Streamborn model wading shoes for his clients to use.

According to Sijnesael, all guests at his lodges will be asked to leave their boots at home. The lodge will supply boots, which have interchangeable soles (felt, studded, rubber lug), making them adaptable to all of the local waters. Obviously, this doesn't completely eliminate the threat of invasive species - only complete isolation can do that. But it certainly should help preserve these waters for the future.

Here at The Angling Report, we think this is a great idea that could be implemented anywhere a lodge controls access to specific waters. It's also a convenience for anglers. Imagine not having to pack wading boots in these days of airline luggage restrictions! Our hat is off here to Marcel Sijnesael of Patagonin Base Camp. If any........(continued)

CONTACT DETAILS FOR COMPANIES/INDIVIDUALS MENTIONED IN ARTICLE (if any)

Patagonian Base Camp. Tel. 011-56-2196-031-0732. Web: www.patagonian-basecamp.com