Lake Garda, with its shimmering blue embrace nestled between the imposing peaks of the Alps, is not only a paradise for sailors, hikers, and food lovers. Beneath its surface lies a vibrant world, teeming with life and waiting to be discovered by fishing enthusiasts. Whether you are an experienced angler or a beginner eager to cast a line for the first time, Garda Trentino offers an unforgettable experience—a silent dialogue with nature in one of Italy’s most spectacular settings.
Staying at Palazzo Riccamboni, in the heart of this magnificent region, gives you the unique opportunity to explore the fish-rich waters of the lake and its tributaries. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for your next fishing adventure.
One Lake, a Thousand Opportunities: The Fish Species of Garda
The waters of Garda Trentino are populated by a remarkable variety of fish, making every trip an adventure. Among the most sought-after catches are:
- Lavarello (Whitefish): The true star of the lake, prized for its delicate flesh. Catching it requires technique and patience, but the reward is well worth it.
- Trout: From the Lake Trout (Trota Lacustre), queen of the depths, to the Brown and Rainbow trout found in tributaries like the Sarca River, this combative fish will put your skills to the test.
- Pike: The quintessential predator of these fresh waters. An encounter with a large pike is an adrenaline rush you won’t easily forget.
- Perch (Persico Reale): Fun to catch and delicious to eat, it’s one of the most common species and is accessible even for beginners.
- Carp: A gentle giant of the lake, carp offer thrilling battles for carp-fishing enthusiasts.
- Other Species: The waters of Garda are also home to chub, tench, barbel, and the famous lake sardines (sardene), a key ingredient in many traditional recipes.
Rules and Permits: Fishing Freely and Responsibly
One of the great conveniences of Garda Trentino is the simplicity of its rules for shore fishing.
Shore Fishing on Lake Garda: For all tourists, no license is required to fish from the shore in the Trentino portion of the lake. All you need is your equipment and respect for the local regulations.
Boat & Inland Water Fishing: If you wish to fish from a boat on the lake or explore rivers (like the Sarca) and smaller alpine lakes (Ledro, Tenno, Cavedine), you must purchase a daily or multi-day fishing permit. These are easily available online via the “Trentino Fishing” app or at authorized vendors like tourist offices and fishing shops.
2025 Specific Regulations: It is essential to be aware of the year’s specific regulations. This includes closed seasons for certain species, minimum catch sizes, and daily catch limits (usually around 5kg). Following these rules is crucial for safeguarding the lake’s precious ecosystem.
The Best Spots: Where to Cast Your Line
Garda Trentino is full of fascinating fishing spots. Here are a few recommendations:
- Riva del Garda and Torbole: The long lakeside promenades and public beaches offer numerous accessible spots for shore fishing. The mouths of streams, like the Albola stream in Riva, are always promising locations.
- Sarca River: Considered one of the best trout fishing rivers in Italy, its waters are managed by local groups like the Associazione Pescatori Dilettanti Basso Sarca. By purchasing a permit, you gain access to incredibly beautiful stretches of the river, from the plains of Arco to the “Marmitte dei Giganti”.
- Alpine Lakes: For a more intimate experience, the nearby lakes of Ledro, Tenno, and Cavedine offer crystal-clear water and a varied fish population, with excellent chances of catching perch, pike, and trout.
- Lakes for Sport Fishing: in Dro, about 20min by car from Riva del Garda, there is Oasi Lago Bagatol (or Bagattoli) for sport fishing. The catch is then paid per kilo; and for those who want to try their hand, but have no equipment, no problem: rods, live and artificial bait and everything you need can be rented or purchased on site!
For enthusiasts, there is Garda Dolomiti Superfishing! A single permit for over 70 fishing spots, between Lake Garda and the Brenta Dolomites. Garda Dolomiti Superfishing allows you to fish throughout South-Western Trentino, moving freely from one water to another, experiencing the lake, the river, the alpine stream, even on the same day.
Equipment Rental and Fishing Guides: The Complete Experience
Didn’t bring your gear? Don’t worry. Shops in Riva del Garda are excellent resources for renting or buying equipment and getting your permits.
For those who want a more in-depth experience and wish to increase their chances of success, hiring an expert fishing guide is the ideal choice. Numerous professionals offer personalized boat trips, teaching you the most effective techniques to target the lake’s different species and taking you to the most productive spots, many of which are inaccessible from the shore. The Trentino Fishing portal is a great resource where you can easily choose and book a guided fishing adventure, suitable for both solo anglers and families, selecting your guide based on the type of fishing and language spoken.
Fishing in Garda Trentino is much more than a sport: it’s a way to connect with the essence of this region, an opportunity for both relaxation and adventure. The blue waters of the lake and the green of its rivers await you. And upon your return to Palazzo Riccamboni, you can relax and dream of your next big catch.