Plan your fishing day on Lake Garda to the best of your ability and discover which coastal areas, rules, and fish species you really should know.
Do you want to bring home an authentic scent of Garda as a souvenir? You will find it in the Terre del Garda shop.
Fish species of Lake Garda
Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and, for anglers, one of the most diverse attractions of Lake Garda in Northern Italy. In the north, the shores drop steeply into deep open waters, while in the south, the lake opens up flat onto the Po Valley. Both areas feature different fish species, techniques, and conditions.
The Garda Carpione (Salmo carpio) is endemic: it lives exclusively in Lake Garda. The species is highly endangered. Since December 20, 2023, there has been a three-year absolute ban on catching and harvesting on the Lombardy shore, valid for both sport and commercial fishing.
The current Garda regulations establish closed seasons, minimum sizes, and daily limits for other species, which are binding for sport anglers.
Among the most important fish species in Lake Garda are:
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Garda Carpione, the lake's endemic rarity
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Common whitefish
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Trout, especially in the deeper and cooler areas
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Pike
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Perch
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Twait shad
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Carp
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Tench
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Chub
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Eel
In addition to these, there are also barbel, stickleback, bleak, and other minor species. For you, as an angler, this means that Lake Garda is not an exclusive reserve for predators or whitefish, but a very mixed basin with peculiarities that vary depending on the area.
The best fishing spots on Lake Garda
The best fishing spots on Lake Garda depend on the species you are looking for and whether you are fishing from the shore or a boat.
Rather than thinking about individual spots, it is useful to divide the lake into macro-areas: the alpine and deep north, and the open and flat south. This allows you to plan your itinerary and tactics more effectively.
Northern shore near Riva del Garda and Torbole
For many anglers, the northern shore is the most exciting part of the lake if you are looking for deep water and rapidly dropping banks. The carpione particularly prefers the upper part of the lake.
This explains why the northern area of Garda traditionally enjoys a special reputation among anglers.
For you, this area is particularly interesting if you want to be mobile and are not just looking for classic swimming spots. Around Riva del Garda and Torbole, you will find stretches of shore, promenades, and rocky areas that, depending on the season, can be interesting for chub, perch, or species that stay in deeper water.
Brescian shore near Limone, Gargnano, and Salò
The western shore alternates between rock faces, small coves, and towns. Stretches far from swimming areas are the most interesting for those fishing from the shore, as they allow for a combination of calmer waters and better accessibility. With a bit of searching, you can find such spots especially in the central part of the Brescian shore.
Salò is a good starting point if you want to test multiple spots in a single day. The town is centrally located, and from there you can quickly reach various stretches of shore in both directions.
In high season, the areas on the western side with intensive tourist use are not suitable for peaceful fishing.
Veronese shore near Malcesine, Brenzone, Garda, and Bardolino
Between Malcesine and Brenzone, the lake drops steeply, and the water is deep and clear. This is precisely where the majestic Castello di Malcesine stands, and the surrounding rocky areas are excellent fishing spots.
Continuing south, towards Bardolino and Garda, the shore becomes flatter and more touristy. The early morning hours in quiet stretches away from harbors are more productive than during daylight hours.
Systematically avoid swimming areas and harbor areas on the Veronese shore.
Southern shore near Peschiera, Sirmione, and Desenzano
The southern shore is flat, open, and easily accessible. In the early morning or outside of high season, the situation is decidedly quieter for exploring the history of Sirmione or visiting the Castle of Desenzano.
At Peschiera del Garda, the passage towards the Mincio river deserves attention. The transition zones between the lake and the river have their own structures and therefore different species compared to the open lake shore.
Fishing from a boat on Lake Garda
From a boat, you can reach areas that are difficult to access from the shore: deep open-water zones, underwater drop-offs, and structures far from the coast. On a lake with depths reaching 346 meters, this makes a considerable difference.
The rules are clear and are enforced:
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License: motorboats exceeding 6 km/h require a nautical license.
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Safety zones: there is a speed limit within 300 meters of the shore, and navigation is prohibited in designated swimming areas.
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Seasonal restrictions: in summer, some areas are closed or heavily restricted to nautical traffic, especially near seaside resorts.
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Fishing license: even from a boat, you need a valid license for the respective side of the lake, whether Lombard or Venetian.
Fishing license on Lake Garda
There is no single license system on Lake Garda. Since 2024, an interregional Garda regulation has further standardized fishing rules on the lake. However, regarding the license, regional differences remain decisive.
Fishing license for the northern shore — Trentino-Alto Adige Region
For waters in Trentino, there is normally a specific license system with three types:
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A for professionals
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B for amateurs
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D for foreigners
For many inland waters, a license, qualification, and a permit from the concession holder are required.
On Lake Garda, this does not apply. According to the provincial law of Trento, neither a fishing card nor a qualification is required for sport fishing on Lake Garda. This is a fundamental special case.
Fishing license for the western shore — Lombardy Region
The Type B license for amateur anglers consists of the payment receipt for the annual regional tax of 23 euros and an identity document. It is valid for twelve months from the date of payment. Minors under 18 and persons over 65 are exempt, but only if they fish with a single rod.
Fishing license for the eastern shore — Veneto Region
The sport fishing license (type B) costs 34 euros. It is valid until midnight on the corresponding calendar day of the following year. Veneto recognizes licenses issued in other Italian regions or in the autonomous provinces of Trento and Bolzano.
Fishing rules and closed seasons
Since 2024, an interregional regulation has been in effect on Lake Garda. Individual regions can also issue additional protection measures.
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Carpione: three-year absolute ban on catching on the Lombardy shore.
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Common whitefish: closed season from December 1st to January 31st, minimum size 30 cm.
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Trout: closed season from October 15th to January 15th, minimum size 40 cm.
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Pike: closed season from February 22nd to April 15th, minimum size 60 cm.
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Eel and Bleak: consult the specific regulations for the protection of eels and bleak on the Lombardy shore.
The total limit is 5 kilograms of fish per day. Always check current regulations before planning your excursions on Lake Garda with the local fishing association.
Practical tips for anglers on Lake Garda
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Always check which region you are fishing in first.
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Check for current special prohibitions before starting.
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Get on the water early in the morning or in the evening, especially in summer.
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Avoid swimming areas and harbor entrances.
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Always carry an identity document and proof of your license.
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From a boat, use only permitted equipment and respect safety distances.
Bringing Lake Garda home with you
If after a long day of fishing you want to bring a piece of Lake Garda home with you, stop by Terre del Garda. There you will find an authentic scent that, even later, will remind you of the water, the morning light, and the special atmosphere of the lake.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about fishing on Lake Garda
Do I need a license to fish on Lake Garda?
Yes, in many cases. The exact rule depends on the side of the lake. In Lombardy and Veneto, a valid regional document is usually required, while in Trentino, there is a special case.
What fish can I catch in Lake Garda?
In Lake Garda, you can find common whitefish, various trout species, pike, perch, twait shad, carp, tench, and eel. The carpione is the protected endemic specialty.
Can I fish from a boat on Lake Garda?
Yes. Fishing from a boat is possible but subject to clear rules on equipment and distances, especially in summer due to coexistence with swimmers.
What is the best time to fish on Lake Garda?
Spring and autumn are often the most pleasant times because the shore is quieter. In summer, the early morning hours are usually the best choice.
