YOUR BESPOKE FISHING EXPERIENCE IN ITALY

THE ANCIENT PREDATOR

The Italic Pike, also known as "Esox Flaviae" or "Esox Cisalpinus" is a top predator, dominating the clear fresh waters above Rome since before ancient times. They are typical ambush predators; they lie and wait for prey, holding perfectly still for long periods, and then exhibit remarkable acceleration as they strike. Stalking this apex fish is an exhilarating angling experience and they can get massive. These big, healthy specimens are fat and strong easily getting to over a meter in length - with teeth to match!  

Recently two independent studies identified this particular fish as a ‘new species’ with a completely different and distinct DNA evolution from the more common northern pike. This has led to more interest from anglers and a drive to preserve the linage with efforts to eliminate cross breeding and keep the native fish thriving.  

We guide from our fully equipped boat on the crystal clear volcanic lakes and reservoirs of the Rieti Valley. Ringed by mountains these spring-fed waters are famously transparent and have been the biggest source of drinking water for Rome for centuries. Our local guide is out there almost everyday in the season so knows the most productive options according to the season and conditions of the day.   

All of these spots are 45-90 minutes from Rome so easily done as a day trip from the city.  We do encourage anyone interested in multiple days to let us create a countryside adventure for you with a stay at our partner hotel together with our premium guide service. This bit of Italy is famous for amazing food and warm hospitality so a few days soaking up the glorious culture (along with the fishing) is highly recommended.  

Lure Fishing (Spinning, but also Casting and Trolling) are the most productive methods due to the depth of the lake and the size of these fish.

Fly Fishing outfits will be always on the boat and can be the best method in certain conditions. Pike often hunt the top water from below either from drop-offs or amongst the thin weeds. If they are looking up for food then we can cast them the perfect treat. When they hit your fly it is a quite a rush!  

A BLUE WATER PARADISE

Pike are not the only predator lurking in these waters.  The guides also love to target the acrobatic Largemouth Bass and the voracious Asp. We also find the massive native Wels Catfish, one the largest freshwater fish in all of Europe.  The largest on record was caught in Italy in 2023 and was over 9 feet in length!