About Paisa
Guided by Passion, Rooted in Respect by founder Joseph K Taylor
Meet
Joseph K Taylor
The Heart and Soul behind Paisa
Joe was born and raised in West Texas, USA, and has spent the last 20 years living in Southwest Colorado. In 2019, Joe embarked on a journey throughout Central and South America for six months to get his first dose of Latin culture.
The Northern Patagonia and Lakes Regions made quite an impression on him, and from the first moment he stepped foot there, he wanted to share his experiences with other travelers. This is where the Paisa seed was planted.
Where Adventure Meets Culture
Joe founded Paisa to offer curated trips that go beyond the ordinary. As an experienced fly fishing guide and well-traveled adventurer, he puts local culture connection and respect at the forefront of every Paisa expedition, ensuring that each trip is a unique blend of excitement and natural wonder in relation to the existing culture in that region.
During his time in Northern Patagonia and Lakes Regions, Joe immersed himself in the local fly fishing community, forging connections with some of the best and most knowledgeable guides in the area.
These relationships ensure that Paisa’s services provide you with the best English-speaking guides available, blending expertise with seamless communication. Joe’s ability to communicate fluently in Spanish further enhances the safety and quality of each trip, as he can easily connect with locals and navigate the region’s diverse landscapes with confidence.
Guided by Passion, Rooted in Respect
With a keen focus on respecting local cultures and wildlife, Joe’s values and mission at Paisa are rooted in inspiring others to embrace new experiences, live more fully, and cultivate compassion for both people and nature.
Joe believes that Paisa trips are pivotal moments in people’s lives
A transformative adventure where the exploration of some of Northern Patagonia and Lakes Regions finest fly fishing locations, the unique Argentinian culture, and the jaw-dropping landscapes converge to create unforgettable memories and a life-changing experience.
The Guides
Marcos Rabbia
Junin Based Guide
Born and raised in Junin de los Andes and has been a professional fly fishing guide in the area for 17 years. Marcos has a vast knowledge of the Malleo, Chimehuin and Collon Cura River systems and is one hell of a marksman with his fly rod. Marcos was one of the first guys owner Joseph met on his first visit here 6 years ago. Him, his mother and brother have been like family since. On his days off, you may find him in Costa Rica chasing 100lb+ tarpon with his 12wt rod or just relaxing at home tying flies and passing time.
What’s on his playlist? Folklore or Frank Sinatra
Favorite fly pattern? Secas grandes
Iñaki Larrea
Bariloche Based Guide
A native of the city of San Carlos de Bariloche “Iña” lived all his life in Northern Patagonia and Lakes Regions. A professional fly fishing guide, international ski instructor, and outdoor photographer are all catalysts for his deep passion for nature. His outdoor life started at a very young age when his parents and grandparents took him out for walks, fishing, and skiing everywhere. He can’t imagine his life as anything other than being here in Bariloche doing what he loves!
What’s on his playlist? Peso Pluma
Favorite fly pattern? Zonker
Ezequiel Faccio
Bariloche Based Guide
Born and raised in Northern Patagonia and Lakes Regions, Ezequiel has called Bariloche home for his entire life . A licensed fly fishing and rafting guide, a professional downhill mountain bike racer and photographer, the guy has a lot going on! While working a day job as an administrator, he also oversees a local clothing company Zettz . On his day off you may find Eze riding bikes or passing time with his wife and son.
What’s on his playlist? Pearl Jam
Favorite fly pattern? Fat Albert
The Hosts
Argentina
Joaquina Irale
Joaquín grew up in Buenos Aires but moved to San Martín at just three years old. Today, she and her boyfriend, JuanJo, are the owners and operators of La Merced Lodge, where they work together to create unforgettable experiences for their guests. She’s passionate about horses and travel, and she loves snow skiing, rock climbing, and anything outdoors.
Juan Sabio
Juan is a 33-year-old photographer and audiovisual producer from Junín de los Andes. Born and raised along the Chimehuín River, he’s spent his life exploring the Patagonian wilderness, with trekking and mountaineering at the center of his passions. Today he creates tourism and commercial content for regional companies, drawing inspiration from local traditions, indigenous culture, and the natural world. He’s also a musician and produces independent film and documentary projects.
Julian Ardenghi
Born and raised in the picturesque town of Bariloche, Julian embodies the spirit of adventure as a passionate free skier, mountain biker, and explorer. He embraces life to the fullest, often embarking on exhilarating day hikes alongside his cherished golden retriever, creating memories that enrich his soul. With a heart that beats for the great outdoors, Julian continually seeks new horizons and thrilling experiences.
Mara Minich
Mara was born in El Calafate, at the age of 9 she moved to Bariloche. Since she was very young she has been in contact with nature, hiking, fly fishing and skiing. She is also a ski instructor and music teacher. Mara is currently working on becoming a certified fishing guide.
Nahuel Areco
Nahuel was born in Buenos Aires but has lived most of his life in San Martin. He studied Law in Buenos Aires for four years and now has a career in finance based out of San Martin. He enjoys skiing, golfing and world travel. If he isn’t working you could find him cruising country roads with his three dogs listening to country music.
Chile
Andre and Leslie Perez
André, Leslie, and their daughter Amelia split their lives between Curiñanco–Valdivia and the Huilo-Huilo Biological Reserve. André works in ecotourism development and is an avid snowboarder and kayaker. Leslie is a chef, gluten-free business owner, kayaker, and yoga teacher.
As a family, they live for adventure and gastronomy—kayaking on Lake Pirihueico, foraging for endemic fruits and edible mushrooms, hiking through waterfalls and colorful rivers, and savoring meals cooked over the fire. From climbing and snowboarding down Mocho Choshuenco to ending the day with a homemade pisco sour or gluten-free kuchen, they bring together nature, tradition, and warmth in everything they do.
David Vidal
David is originally from Temuco and launched his Casa de Volcán project in 2016. An industrial Casa de Volcán project in 2016. An industrial who has lived in both Japan and the United States. Deeply connected to nature, David enjoys hiking, martial arts, and exploring the outdoors whenever he can.
Mitch Sasser
Mitch is a veteran fly-fishing and whitewater guide with more than 25 years of experience on the Futaleufú and surrounding river systems. A certified Swiftwater Rescue Instructor, he has spent his career navigating and teaching on some of the most powerful and iconic rivers in Patagonia, including the Palena, Yelcho, and the Futa.
With deep regional knowledge and a calm, professional presence on the water, Mitch brings both safety and skill to every outing. He has long-standing connections with many of the area’s top guides and knows exactly who pairs well with different groups and trip styles. Whether it’s technical fly fishing, multi-day river adventures, or remote river exploration, Mitch is a trusted leader who elevates every experience.
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