Italy

Italy on the Fly

Shop Fishing Gear

Accommodations

Boutique Hotel

Season

May - October

Species

Marble, Brown & Rainbow Trout, Grayling

Ideal For

Solo + Fishing Friends, Families & Couples

Prime Fishing in Italy's Storied High Country

The Friuli Venezia Giulia region of northern Italy borders Slovenia and Austria, nestled against the Julian Alps and Dolomites. This is a land shaped by centuries of history and a blend of cultures – Italian, Slavic, and Germanic – reflected in everything from the food to the architecture. It also happens to be one of Europe’s last remaining strongholds of wild marble trout. The combination of clear rivers, healthy fish populations, and relatively light angling pressure makes this an exceptional destination for traveling fly anglers. The fishing basecamp for this operation is located in the peaceful countryside, near the village of Arta Terme. Arta Terme is a quiet town with gorgeous views of the surrounding alpine foothills, and was once a 'spa town' enjoyed by the ancient Romans for the healing thermal spring waters found there. From this home base, anglers access multiple fisheries throughout the region, including the Natisone, Isonzo, Idrijca, and Livenza river systems. Whether you’re stalking marble trout in a crystal-clear canyon stream or casting to grayling in a high alpine meadow, the setting is nothing short of spectacular.

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Lodging Details
Guests fishing the Italy on the Fly program stay in the picturesque alpine hamlet 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 in a beautifully restored 19th-century former distillery that now operates as a four-star boutique hotel, seamlessly blending rustic charm with modern amenities. In business for over 100 years, the hotel is currently run by the granddaughter of its founder.

This historic alpine property features well-appointed rooms with private en suite bathrooms, comfortable beds, stylish furnishings, and free Wi-Fi throughout. The hotel is known for its hospitality and attention to detail, offering a warm and inviting home base for traveling anglers and their guests. A key highlight is the on-site wellness spa, complete with saunas, a jacuzzi, and a panoramic pool that looks out over the surrounding alpine terrain—perfect for relaxing after a full day on the water.

Located in close proximity to seven of the region’s best fishing valleys, the lodge provides easy access to the Tagliamento River basin and its numerous tributaries. Surrounded by ancient forests, waterfalls, and dramatic alpine scenery, this is an ideal setting for anglers seeking a genuine connection to both nature and Italian mountain culture.

Food and Beverages
Cuisine in this part of Friuli Venezia Giulia is as much a highlight of the trip as the fishing. Meals are crafted using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the rich culinary traditions of northern Italy with influences from nearby Austria and Slovenia. The restaurant on-site offers multi-course meals, featuring local game, mountain cheeses, handmade pastas, and regional wines. Breakfasts are hearty and European-style, while lunch may be served streamside during the fishing day or back at the hotel, depending on the daily schedule. Dinners are typically shared meals enjoyed with local wines or Italian beer, providing a communal and celebratory end to each day on the water.

Typical Length of Stay
Standard packages are 7 nights / 6 full fishing days, although custom lengths and flexible itineraries are available. Please contact Yellow Dog for help building a personalized travel and fishing plan to fit your needs.

Non-Angling Activities and Options
Non-angling guests will enjoy a wide variety of options, including hiking, photography, village visits, wine tasting, cultural tours, and day trips into nearby Slovenia or Austria. The area is rich in historical and cultural sites, including medieval castles, vineyards, World War I battlefields, and UNESCO World Heritage towns like Cividale del Friuli or Aquileia. Aquileia was founded as a Roman colony in 180/81 BC north of the lagoons along the Adriatic sea, forming what is today one of Northern Italy's most significant archaeological sites.

Internet / Communications
Wi-Fi is available at the main villa for all guests. Mobile phone coverage is generally reliable in most of the region, with some dead zones in remote alpine areas.

How To Get There
Guests typically fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) or Trieste Airport (TRS). From Venice, it's a 1.5-to-2 hour drive to the lodge base in Arta Terme. Transfers can be arranged by Yellow Dog and Italy On the Fly. Yellow Dog will be happy to work with you to line up the correct international flight itinerary and transfers.

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

Documents Required
All foreign travelers to Italy must be in possession of a passport that is valid for at least six months past the duration of your stay in country. Additionally, passports must have at least two blank pages remaining and cannot be damaged, delaminated, torn, or mutilated in any way. Note that damaged and torn passports WILL NOT be accepted by the airlines as proof of identity for travel. Citizens of most countries (including the U.S.) do not need a visa to visit Italy. Please be aware that is the traveler’s responsibility to obtain all correct documentation prior to arriving in Italy.

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 northeast Italy, this is a program that offers anglers a diverse array of rivers and streams located in 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, and smaller tributaries. The region's rivers are home to a diverse mix of wild trout and grayling species, with a focus on marble trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, and grayling. The fishing is 100% walk-and-wade, typically in medium- to small-sized rivers with crystal-clear water. Anglers can expect a combination of sight fishing, dry fly opportunities, and technical nymphing. Daily outings are tailored to your preferences and skill level, with expert guides who know the waters intimately. Whether you’re after a trophy marble trout or interested in exploring multiple fisheries, this is a program that delivers an immersive, rewarding experience.

The region offers a dynamic variety of waters including:

Spring Creeks: Clear, calm, and technical — perfect for sight-fishing with small dries or light nymphs to selective brown and marble trout.
Mountain Freestones & Glacial Rivers: Fast-moving, high-gradient streams that require strong wading and active presentations. Great for dry-dropper or tight-line nymphing setups.
Limestone Streams & Canyon Waters: Remote and scenic stretches that often require hiking or longer drives. These offer solitude and opportunities for larger fish.
Tributaries & High Alpine Headwaters: Intimate and wild settings where native marble trout and hybrids thrive, often requiring stealth and accuracy.

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

Target Species

Marble Trout: The crown jewel of the region and a true European native, marble trout are known for their large size, elusive nature, and stunning marbled patterns. These fish are protected and carefully managed, offering a rare and rewarding pursuit for the dedicated angler.
Brown Trout: Widely distributed across the Friuli region’s spring creeks and freestone streams. These fish are often wild and finicky — perfect targets for dry fly presentations and technical nymphing.
Marble-Brown Hybrids: These naturally occurring hybrids exhibit the size and strength of marble trout with some of the spotting and coloration of browns. They’re often aggressive and grow to impressive sizes, particularly in freestone and glacial rivers.
Grayling: Found in colder glacial rivers and limestone streams. Grayling offer exciting dry fly action and are a favorite among European trout anglers for their beauty and surface takes.
Rainbow Trout: Present in select systems, especially in sections of more managed or stocked waters. While not native, they can offer fun and fast fishing when encountered. Most of the guiding and focus, however, centers on marble and brown trout in wild, unpressured environments.

The Fishing Seasons
Prime season runs from early May through October. Spring and fall are best for water conditions, hatches, and fish activity. Summer can also produce excellent fishing, especially early and late in the day. Local regulations determine the exact timing and availability of individual rivers and species.

Equipment
It is recommended that anglers bring all rods, reels, waders, and wading boots, as this ensures the most comfortable experience. Four and five-weight rods are ideal for these mountain waters, with floating lines and 9-12 foot leaders. Standard dry flies, nymphs, and streamers are all productive depending on the season and conditions. Waders and felt-soled boots are recommended for traction. Yellow Dog provides a full gear list, fly recommendations, and a detailed pre-trip planning guide upon booking. All flies, terminal tackle, and leaders are provided by the guides if needed.

If you cannot travel with gear and equipment, the outfitter can supply a full gear and tackle kit for you to use. This loaner offer is complimentary for all package (all-inclusive) trips, and a $75 USD per angler/per session for guided day trips. If you would like to use the outfitter’s equipment, please let Yellow Dog know ahead of time and provide sizing for waders and boots.

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. Custom-length trips can be arranged. Please contact us for availability and pricing.

Trip extensions can be arranged before or after your fishing adventure. Options include cultural visits to Venice, the Dolomites, the Slovenian Alps, or coastal towns on the Adriatic Sea. Wine tastings, cooking classes, historical site tours, and luxury accommodations are available. Yellow Dog can help coordinate all add-on logistics and custom itineraries.

**Due to the customizable nature of this program, please reach out to Yellow Dog for sample rates**

What’s Included:

All accommodations and lodging
All meals and beverages (including beer and wine)
Full days of guided fishing (shared guide for 2-3 anglers, solo guide for single angler)
Ground transportation to and from the rivers each day
Italian fishing licenses and local permits
Flies and terminal tackle

What’s Not Included:

International airfare to/from Italy
Ground transfers in Italy from the airport to Arta Terme (Round-trip rate per vehicle for a private mini-coach that can accommodate up to 8 people are listed below. Yellow Dog will arrange.)
Alcohol outside of meals
Gratuities for fishing guides, drivers, and villa staff
Extra tours or 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)

Guided Day Trips:
Travelers who are already in the Trentino region or a neighboring province can book day trips with local guides without booking the full accommodation package. Our outfitter offers a day rate that includes all local and national permits. These day trips can be booked for single anglers ($890 for a full day) or for two anglers ($490 per person).

Ground Transfer Packages:
Italy on the Fly can arrange an all-inclusive ground transfer package from arrival airport to the lodge base. The round-trip cost is per vehicle for up to eight (8) people in a private mini-bus. Transfer rate includes driver, petrol, tolls, parking fees and all related expenses. The cost is all inclusive and can be shared by all passengers. Transfer from Venezia (VCE) or Trieste (TRS) to their base in Arta Terme costs $1150. Transfers from other airports and locations in northern Italy are available on request.

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.