Fly Fishing in Trentino: Best spots, fish species
and tips for an unforgettable experience
Everything you need to know to plan your fly fishing holiday in Trentino, surrounded by unspoiled nature and a "no kill" philosophy.
Trentino is a true paradise for fly fishing hobbyist.
The area offers natural environments ranging from alpine streams to crystalline lakes. Fly fishing, both dry and with nimph, is available in numerous waterways, many of which operate on a "no-kill" basis, for an experience that respect the aquatic ecosystem and its fishes species.
Streamer fishing can be also practiced, especially in the Alpine lakes. Some of these lakes allow the use of belly boat, little floating boats that allows you to move across the water and reach otherwise inaccessible spots.
The meaning of "no kill"
The term "no kill" referes to a sustainable fishing philosophy: the fisherman catches the fish, observes it, and, if desired, photographs it, before releasing it back into the water. The goal is to protect the fish populations, guarantee the preservation of local native fish species, and allowing waters to remain vibrant and rich in wildlife and biodiversity. In Trentino many "no-kill" zoned oferr also protcted areas with specific regulations on permitted equipment, flies, and techniques, in order to guarantee an ethical and nature-friendly fishing experience. In these areas single barbless hooks are used to minimize the risk of harming the fishes.
The fishing species in Trentino
Trentino's waters host an extraordinary biodiversity. Among the main fishing species we can find:
• Brown trout -- it prefers clear, cool mountain streams.
• Marble trout -- rare native species, a symbol of conservation.
• Grayling fish -- present locally in Alpine high-altitude lakes.
• Artic char -- a small, elegant predator present in mountain lakes.
• Brook char -- present both in Alpine lakes and in some high-altitude streams.
• Rainbow trout -- often introduced for sport fishing.
• Whitefish -- present in the deeper lakes.
• Crucian carp, rudd and bleak -- common in calm and quite lakes.
• Pike -- predator present in the calmer lagoons.
The style, relaxation and philosophy of fly fishing
Fly fishing is not just about the catching fish; it is a true and complete experience of relaxation, focusing and connection with nature. Walking across and along the streams, observing the fishes, and casting the flies with precision require patience and attention, but provide a sense of harmony and well-being. Each cast becomes a meditation moment, where the firsherman learns how to read water, fishes' movements and signals from surrounding's nature in general.
The fly fishing experience is suitable also for children aged 7-8 and up, who can learn the basics of fishing in a safe and protected enivronment, sharing unique moments with the family.
History
The origins of fly-fishing date back to 17th-century England, where it began as a refined art inspired by the observation of nature. The goal was to accurately imitate insects to fool the fishes, combining technique and patience.
Over time, fly fishing has spread throughout Europe and, starting from the 1970s, even to the United States, where the "catch & release" or "no kill" philosophy has become established, promoting a sustainable and environmentally friendly practice.
Nowadays, in Trentino, this philosophy is fully embraced thanks to a network of carefully managed "no kill" zones, protected waterways, and a tradition of hospitality that combines a passion for fishing with responsible tourism. The waters of Trentino, with their clear streams and native species such as marble trout, perfectly embody the original spirit of this ancient art: patience, respect, and harmony with nature.
The baits used
Artificial flies are made to resemble the natural insect and larvaes that inhabit our local streams and lakes. The main types are the follwoings:
• Dry flies -- they float on the water's surface, attracting the surface-feeding fishes.
• Nymphs -- ideal for deeper-water catches.
• Streamers – they imitate small fishes or other aquatic organisms, perfect for predators like the pike. The streamers are also very effective on large trouts, especially the marble trout.
The choice of fly type depends on several factors, such as the season, the time of the day and the species of fish present in that stretch of stream or lake.
Technical fishing clothing
Clothing plays a key role in confort and safety. The key elements include:
• Waders (boots with waterproof pants) -- made of neoprene or breathable fabrics, allowing you to enter the water while remaining dry.
• Waterproof and breathable jacket -- it protects from bad weather environments offering you pockets for gear.
• Hat or visor -- protection from sun and branches.
• Gloves -- fingerless or with removable tips to maintain fingers' sensitivity.
• Waders -- essential if you spend many hours in the river.
• Hiking boots -- useful if you need to reach high-altitude spots after a stretch on foot, therefore in combination with or as an alternative to waders.
• Polarized sunglasses - essential for reducing glare and better read the water.
An increasingly popular technique, especially among young people and foreign anglers, is "wet wading": using neoprene socks and hiking boots (without waders), fishing in swimsuit or technical underwear directly immersed in the river. It is very popular in the summer or during high-altitude fishing, where you walk for long periods between streams and alpine lakes.
The best spots for fly fishing
The Val di Non offers more than 30 spots among streams and lakes with "no-kill" areas, such as Pescara stream and lakes Toval and Smeraldo. The Val di Sole, with over 120 km of streams and rivers and 13 Alpine lakes, sees its Noce river such as one of the most renowned rivers in Italy for fly fishing. In the Val di Fiemme, Avisio river and alpine lakes in the Lagorai region offer ideal spots foe both beginner and experts, while the Valle del Chiese offer calm lakes like Ampola and tranquil rivers which are both perfect spots for a relaxing fishing experience. The Alto Sarca, including the Sarca river waters next to Madonna di Campiglio, is an iconic area with slowing waters and deep basins, where you can fish for brown and marble trout, grayling, and char, always respecting the "no kill" philosophy.
Also the Valsugana, with the Brenta river and over one hundred alpine lakes, and the Vallagarina, with stretches od Adige river and San Colombano lagoon, offer varied and evocative environments.
Finally, the Ledro, Cembra, and Laghi valleys, along with the val d’Adige, complete the picture of Trentino's most popular fly-fishing spots, with their clear waters, pristine landscapes, and extraordinary biodiversity.
Fishing Season in Trentino
The fishing season varies depending on the water course and the species present. Some alpine areas open as early as February and remain fishable until October, while other rivers and lakes at lower altitudes generally open from late April or early May. "No Kill" areas may have special rules to ensure the conservation of native species.
The best time for fly fishing is from May to late September, with the last days of September being particularly beautiful. Many stretches remain open even in October (especially in Val di Sole), a month that offers some of the most scenic views of the year.
Campo Base Travel Packages: Fishing, Wellness, and Outdoor Activities
Our packages always include fishing permits, ensuring a hassle-free experience. All packages include a fishing guide on at least the first day, so they can advise you on the best spots in the area based on water conditions and the weather forecast for the following days. With the guide's support, no experience is necessary: even those new to fly fishing can learn basic techniques, understand how to read rivers and lakes, and enjoy a safe and rewarding experience.
Campo Base Travel's packages range from the basic package, ideal for those who want to focus exclusively on fishing, to wellness and fishing package, which combines fishing days with relaxing moments in the spa, sauna, and hot tub, to the fishing and e-bike package, which allows you to explore the surrounding areas on two wheels, reaching new spots and enjoying spectacular landscapes.
For families, the "Fishing thanks to Mum and Dad” package offers the opportunity to share the experience with the little ones: even children aged 7-8 can learn about fly fishing in complete safety, accompanied by an expert guide who introduces them to the world of Trentino's streams and trout with games and simple explanations.
Subject to availability, we partner with Trentino Fishing Hotels, select establishments that offer dedicated services for fishing enthusiasts, such as equipment storage and washing facilities, packed lunches, information on fishing areas, and support from expert staff.
All packages guarantee comfort, expert guidance, and a complete immersion in the Trentino nature (Discover all packages here).
