Lake Idro is a small Alpine gem nestled among the mountains, where nature reigns supreme and silence accompanies you throughout the day. It is an ideal place to relax and fish, surrounded by unspoilt countryside. Whether you are an experienced angler or a curious beginner, here you will find clear waters, a wide variety of fish species and all the conditions for a perfect day.
What fish can you find in Lake Idro?
The lake is home to numerous freshwater fish, including:
- Brown trout (Trota fario)
- Rainbow trout (Trota iridea)
- Perch (Persico reale)
- Pike (Luccio)
- Chub (Cavedano)
- Tench (Tinca)
- Rudd (Scardola)
- Bleak (Alborella)
- Carp (Carpa)
- Eel (Anguilla – rare)
- Lake trout (Trota lacustre)
The Chiese River, which flows through the lake, is also very popular with anglers, especially in the southern part towards Ponte Caffaro and Storo.
Do you need a licence to fish?
Yes, a valid licence is required to fish in Lake Idro. The lake is located between Lombardy (province of Brescia) and Trentino (province of Trento): the rules and licences vary from region to region.
Lombardy side (Idro, Anfo, Crone, Lemprato, Vantone)
For residents of Italy, a type B fishing licence is required.
Foreign tourists may fish without a fishing licence, but must pay the regional tax.
You do not need to go to an office: a bank transfer to the Lombardy region is sufficient.
This tax is not mandatory for Italian residents under the age of 18 or over the age of 65.
How to obtain the licence (regional tax)
Make a bank transfer with the following details:
- Beneficiary: Regione Lombardia
- IBAN: IT95D0306909790100000300047
- Bank: Intesa Sanpaolo
- Recommended description: ‘Licenza di pesca dilettantistica di tipo B – [First name Surname] – Year’ (e.g. ‘Licenza di pesca dilettantistica di tipo B – Mario Rossi – 2025’)
Rates:
- DDaily permit: £5.00
- Weekly permit: £13.00
- Annual licence: €23.00
The proof of payment of the bank transfer is valid as a fishing licence. Please bring it with you (digital or printed), together with a proof of identity.
Trentino side (Baitoni, Bondone)
A day or week licence for tourists is required here.
An Italian fishing licence is not required.
The permit is available online at:
When can you fish?
In general, you can fish from spring to autumn, but some fish species have closed seasons:
- Trout: closed season from approximately October to the end of February
- Pike: prohibited in spring (usually April-May)
Always check the current regulations for Lombardy or Trentino.
Most common fishing techniques
- Spinning (pike, trout)
- Fly fishing
- White fishing (with float or feeder)
- Carp fishing
- Using natural bait
Fishing is permitted from the shore and from a boat, provided you respect the rules and distances.
Useful tips
- The best times are around sunrise and sunset
- Recommended spots: Crone beaches, river mouths, northern area near Baitoni
- Always respect the minimum sizes, daily limits and nature
