Italy on the Fly

Trip Overview
The Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy borders Slovenia and Austria and sits beneath the dramatic peaks of the Carnic Alps, Julian Alps, and Dolomite mountain ranges. This is a land shaped by centuries of history and a unique blend of Italian, Slavic, and Germanic influences reflected in everything from the cuisine and architecture to the local culture and traditions. It is also home to some of Europe’s finest trout fisheries and one of the last remaining strongholds of the legendary marble trout. The combination of crystal-clear rivers, healthy wild fish populations, and relatively light angling pressure makes this one of the premier destination trout fisheries in Europe. The fishing basecamp for this operation is in the peaceful alpine village of Arta Terme, a charming mountain town known for its thermal springs, spectacular scenery, and authentic Italian atmosphere. Arta Terme was once a renowned Roman spa town celebrated for the healing properties of its natural spring waters and today remains a quiet and beautiful base for exploring the rivers and valleys of northeastern Italy.  From this home base, anglers access an extensive network of rivers and streams throughout Friuli Venezia Giulia and neighboring watersheds. Depending on conditions, guests may fish the Tagliamento, Fella, Natisone, Torre, Isonzo, Idrijca, Livenza, and numerous additional rivers and tributaries throughout the region. One of the greatest strengths of the program is flexibility, with guides able to select from countless fisheries located within approximately one hour of the lodge.  The region offers an incredible variety of fishing opportunities. Anglers may spend one day stalking marble trout in a crystal-clear canyon stream, the next casting dry flies to rising grayling on a broad alpine river, and another exploring intimate mountain tributaries hidden deep within the surrounding valleys. The fishing is entirely walk-and-wade and ranges from technical spring-creek-style rivers and limestone streams to freestone trout water, glacial rivers, and alpine headwaters. Whether you’re pursuing marble trout, wild brown trout, grayling, or rainbow trout, the setting is nothing short of spectacular.

Lodging Details
Guests fishing the Italy on the Fly program stay in the picturesque alpine village of Arta Terme, nestled in the heart of the Friulian Alps. Long known for its natural hot springs and restorative mountain air, Arta Terme provides a peaceful and authentic base for exploring the wild fishing valleys of northeastern Italy.

The accommodation is housed at Borgo Gortani, a beautifully restored nineteenth-century former distillery that now operates as a boutique alpine hotel blending historic charm with modern comforts and amenities. Family owned and operated for more than one hundred years, the property is currently managed by the founder’s granddaughter and offers a warm and inviting home base for traveling anglers and their guests.

This historic alpine property features comfortable guest rooms with private ensuite bathrooms, stylish furnishings, Wi-Fi access, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. A highlight of the property is the wellness area, complete with saunas, a jacuzzi, and a panoramic swimming pool overlooking the alpine terrain — perfect for relaxing after a full day on the water. Located near numerous fisheries throughout the region, Borgo Gortani provides easy access to the Tagliamento River basin and surrounding valleys. Surrounded by forests, waterfalls, mountain villages, and dramatic scenery, this is an ideal setting for anglers seeking a genuine connection to both nature and Italian mountain culture.

Food and Beverages
Cuisine in Friuli Venezia Giulia is as much a highlight of the trip as the fishing itself. Meals are crafted using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and reflect the rich culinary traditions of northern Italy with influences from nearby Austria and Slovenia. Breakfast and dinner are served daily at Borgo Gortani and are included as part of the package. Breakfasts are hearty and European style, featuring a buffet of fresh breads, pastries, fruit, cheeses, cured meats, eggs, coffee, and tea. Lunch is typically a streamside packed lunch prepared by the lodge consisting of sandwiches featuring local meats and cheeses, fruit, juice, water, and a pastry. Guests who prefer may also choose to dine at local restaurants during the day at their own expense. Dinners highlight traditional Friulian and northern Italian cuisine and often include local meats, handmade pastas, mountain cheeses, fresh seasonal ingredients, and regional specialties. One bottle of house wine per table or one local beer per guest is included with dinner each evening. Additional alcoholic beverages are available at an additional charge.

Typical Length of Stay
While the most common itinerary consists of 7 nights / 6 full fishing days, Italy on the Fly is highly customizable. Trips of virtually any length can be arranged, and Yellow Dog can help build personalized itineraries based on individual schedules, travel plans, and interests. This is also the ideal program to pair with fishing packages in Slovenia or Bosnia, as the transfers are easy and set up by Yellow Dog.

Non-Angling Activities and Options
Non-angling guests will enjoy a wide variety of options including hiking, photography, village visits, wine tasting, wellness activities, cultural tours, and day trips into nearby Slovenia or Austria. Borgo Gortani also organizes daily activities and excursions for non-angling guests throughout the region. The area is rich in historical and cultural attractions including medieval castles, vineyards, World War I battlefields, Roman ruins, and UNESCO World Heritage towns such as Cividale del Friuli and Aquileia. World-class wineries are located nearby, while the Adriatic coast can be reached in approximately ninety minutes.

Internet / Communications
Wi-Fi is available at Borgo Gortani for all guests. Mobile phone coverage is generally reliable throughout most of the region, although some remote alpine valleys may experience limited service.

How To Get There
Guests typically fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) or Trieste Airport (TRS). Venice generally offers the greatest number of international flight options and is approximately a two-hour drive from Arta Terme, while Trieste is approximately one and a half hours away. Private airport transfers can be coordinated through Italy on the Fly and Yellow Dog. Rental cars are also a popular option for guests wishing to explore the region before or after their fishing program. Yellow Dog is happy to assist with international flight planning, airline logistics, and transfer arrangements. These Italy packages are easily paired with similar trips to Slovenia or Bosnia, creating an incredible two-location southern Europe combo trip. 

Arrival and Departure Details / Times
Flights should ideally arrive before 2:00 PM local time to accommodate ground transfers. Departures should generally be scheduled after 11:00 AM on the final day to allow sufficient time for airport transfers.

Documents Required
All foreign travelers to Italy must possess a passport valid for at least three months beyond the duration of their stay within the Schengen Area. Passports should also contain at least two blank pages and must not be damaged or altered in any way. Citizens of most countries, including the United States, do not currently require a visa for tourist visits to Italy. Please note that it is the traveler’s responsibility to obtain all correct travel documentation prior to departure.

Travel Arrangements
Yellow Dog provides airline reservations and ticketing assistance through etcTravel Group, and a full-service airline logistics agent that can help book airline tickets, hotels, rental cars, and more. You can click here to request a quote or contact Yellow Dog for more information at 406-585-8667. etcTravel Group offers dedicated support services for all Yellow Dog clients. Service fees may apply when booking or researching tickets, and etcTravel will discuss this with you before sending quotes.

Travel Tools
– Airline Ticketing
– Moon Phases
– Rent This Rod
– Trip Insurance and Emergency Evacuation
– Global Rescue Membership

General Information
Based in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, this program offers anglers access to a remarkably diverse array of rivers and streams located throughout the foothills of the Alps and Dolomites. This is one of the most scenic, wild, and uncrowded trout fisheries in Europe, offering fly anglers a mix of spring creeks, alpine freestones, glacial rivers, limestone streams, and intimate mountain tributaries. The region’s rivers are home to healthy populations of marble trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, grayling, and naturally occurring marble-brown hybrids. The fishing is entirely walk-and-wade and typically takes place on medium- to small-sized rivers with crystal-clear water. Anglers can expect a combination of sight fishing, dry fly opportunities, Euro-style nymphing, and streamer fishing depending on conditions and target species. Daily outings are fully customized based on weather, water conditions, angler ability, and seasonal fishing opportunities. Nearly all fisheries are located within one hour of the lodge, allowing guides to maximize fishing time while adjusting locations daily to ensure the best possible experience.

The region offers a dynamic variety of waters including:

• Spring Creeks: Clear, calm, and technical fisheries ideal for sight-fishing with dry flies and small nymphs to selective trout and grayling.
• Mountain Freestones & Glacial Rivers: Fast-moving alpine systems requiring active presentations, strong wading skills, and adaptable techniques.
• Limestone Streams & Canyon Waters: Remote and scenic rivers offering solitude, technical fishing, and opportunities for larger fish.
• Tributaries & High Alpine Headwaters: Intimate and wild settings where native marble trout and hybrids thrive, often rewarding stealth and accurate presentations.

Each fishing day is custom-planned based on conditions, angler preferences, and optimal seasonal opportunities.

Target Species

• Marble Trout: The crown jewel of the region and one of Europe’s most sought-after freshwater gamefish. Marble trout are known for their intricate marbled patterns, impressive size potential, and elusive nature. Native to the Adriatic drainages of northern Italy and Slovenia, these fish are carefully protected and represent a truly unique angling opportunity.
• Brown Trout: Widely distributed throughout the region’s spring creeks, freestone rivers, and alpine tributaries. These fish are typically wild and often provide exceptional dry fly and technical nymphing opportunities.
• Marble-Brown Hybrids: Naturally occurring hybrids that combine the size and power of marble trout with some of the coloration and spotting of brown trout.
• Grayling: Found in colder glacial rivers and limestone systems. Grayling are a favorite among European anglers for their beauty, surface takes, and willingness to rise to dry flies.
• Rainbow Trout: Present in select systems and capable of providing exciting fishing opportunities throughout portions of the season.

The Fishing Seasons
The fishing season generally runs from April through October, with May through September representing the most popular and productive period for visiting anglers. Spring and fall typically offer the best overall water conditions and hatch activity, while summer can produce excellent fishing opportunities during early mornings and evenings.

Equipment
One of the major advantages of fishing with Italy on the Fly is the ability to travel extremely light if desired. The operation maintains a complete inventory of complimentary loaner equipment including rods, reels, waders, boots, and all flies and terminal tackle are provided. Guests are certainly welcome to bring their own equipment, but doing so is entirely optional. Four- and five-weight rods are ideal for most fishing situations, paired with floating fly lines and leaders ranging from approximately nine to twelve feet depending on conditions. Dry flies, Euro-style nymphs, and streamers are all productive throughout the season. Quality breathable waders and felt or rubber-soled wading boots are recommended for anglers bringing their own gear. Yellow Dog provides a complete gear list, fly recommendations, and a detailed pre-trip planning guide upon booking.

Fishing Licenses
Italy on the Fly secures all required fishing permits and licenses for guests, which are included in the package. Fisheries throughout the Friuli region operate under strict conservation regulations. All fishing is catch-and-release, only one fly may be used at a time, and all hooks must be barbless. Guides will review all local regulations and fish handling procedures prior to fishing.

Package Rates
Remember that Yellow Dog’s services are completely free! When you book a trip with Yellow Dog, you never pay more than when you book directly with the lodge or outfitter.

Due to the highly customizable nature of this program, please contact Yellow Dog directly for sample itineraries and current pricing.

What’s Included:

• All accommodations and lodging
• Ground transfers to/from Venice or Trieste Airports 
• Breakfast, packed lunches, and dinner daily
• One bottle of house wine per table or one local beer per guest with dinner
• Full days of guided fishing (1 or 2 anglers per guide)
• Ground transportation to and from the rivers each day
• Italian fishing licenses and local permits
• Complimentary use of rods, reels, waders, and boots
• Flies, leaders, and terminal tackle

What’s Not Included:

• International airfare to/from Italy
• Additional alcohol and premium beverages
• Gratuities for guides and hotel staff
• Extra tours or side day trips. (Note that any guided fishing day can be swapped with for a full day of guided touring and non-angling sightseeing at no extra cost as long as this is arranged prior to the trip.)
• Travel insurance (highly recommended)

Lodge / Program Terms and Conditions and Cancellation Policies:
TERMS AND CONDITIONS – CANCELLATIONS
A non-refundable deposit of 50% per person is due at the time of booking for all trip packages and reservations, and final payment if due 90 days prior to arrival. Please note that for all Yellow Dog Flyfishing, L.L.C. itineraries booked with ¬¬¬¬Italy on the Fly both deposits and final payments are non-refundable. If a cancelled package is resold by either the outfitter/operator or by Yellow Dog Flyfishing for the exact same itinerary, then a full refund will be sent minus a $100.00 per person cancellation fee charged by Yellow Dog. In the case of cancellation by the client, both deposit and final payment may be transferred to another guest or angler for those same (original) dates if facilitated and arranged by the client. For all reservations booked over a year in advance, the rates and dates indicated for the reservation are based on the current calendar year season and schedule, and final prices are subject to change for the following season. Because of the operator’s no refund and no credit policy, we highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation insurance. In no event will the operator or Yellow Dog be responsible for any cancellation of services or operations due to inclement weather, any event of force majeure, airline delays, missed travel connections, train delays, or any other reason beyond the control of the operator. If your flights are late and connections are missed, the operator is not responsible for alternative travel arrangements including flights, hotels, meals and any other expenses incurred. Receipt of deposit and/or final payment is acknowledgment that registrant has read and accepts the deposit, cancellation, refund and responsibility clauses for these packages. Once again, Yellow Dog strongly recommends that anglers and guests purchase travel insurance these India packages.

Payment Terms for All Yellow Dog Trip Bookings  
Unless otherwise noted on your invoice, for all trips less than 90 days out, full payment is required after receipt of the confirmation email to secure guides and reservations. For trips outside of 90 days, a 50% deposit is required upon receipt of confirmation email to confirm your reservations.   

Yellow Dog accepts on-line payments via a secure payment portal – a quick and easy way to complete your trip reservation. Please reach out to accounting@yellowdogflyfishing.com to gain access. 

Yellow Dog Flyfishing Standard Forms of Payment 

• Debit card (fee-free) and credit card (3% convenience fee) - to pay via card please utilize the customer payment portal. If you need assistance, reach out to 406-585-8667 ext. #3 
• Wires - please include name and/or invoice number for reference on your wire. Please reach out to accounting@yellowdogflyfishing.com for wiring instructions. (client is responsible for wiring fees) 
• Physical check - please include your invoice number in the memo. Mail checks to 213 S. Willson Ave. Bozeman, MT, 59715

If you have any questions about alternate payment methods, please contact Yellow Dog at (406) 585-8667 ext. #3. We are available Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM MST.