The Soča River basin of Italy.
Rivers and streams.
The Italian part of the Soča River Basin, known as the Isonzo Basin, offers a wide variety of fishing opportunities. From fast-flowing alpine torrents in the foothills of the Julian Alps to broader gravel-bed stretches downstream, the rivers here provide a mix of conditions for both experienced and casual anglers.
The landscape itself is as rewarding as the fishing. Steep forested valleys open into fertile plains, while dramatic gorges cut through limestone ridges and charming Italian villages complete the experience.
Isonzo (Soča).
The main river, flowing from Nova Gorica/Gorizia to the Adriatic, is regulated under FVG’s Special trout regime.
And it can be fished from the confluence with the Vipacco (Vipava) until the border with Slovenia. Within this stretch there are a few small stretches that can not be fished. the Species found here include marble trout, brown trout, hybrids, rainbow trout (stocked), and occasional grayling.
Vipacco (Vipava).
The Vippaco in italy can be fished under Zona A regulations. It can be fished from the confluence with the Isonzo (Soča) until the border with Slovenia.the Species found here include marble trout, brown trout, hybrids, rainbow trout (stocked), and occasional grayling.
Torrente Torre (including headwater tributaries).
The Torrente Torre can be fished under different regulations depending on the stretch of the river. Upstream from Vedronza it can be fished under special trout regime regulations including most of its tributaries, here the streams are true small alpine streams. the Species found here include marble trout, brown trout, hybrids, rainbow trout (stocked), and occasional grayling.
Fiume Judrio (Reka Idrija).
This transboundary river marks part of the border with Slovenia before joining the Torre. Sections of the river fall under Zona A, while others are managed under the farmed trout regime. Anglers can expect marble trout, brown trout, hybrids, and occasional rainbows, all in a rural, vineyard-dotted landscape.
Torrente Versa.
A small tributary of the Judrio, classified entirely as Zona A. Its clear flows and intimate size make it ideal for light tackle fishing, with marble trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout the most common catches.
Fiume Natisone (Nadiža).
One of the main tributaries of the Isonzo, flowing through the scenic Natisone Valley. Parts of the river are under the farmed trout regime, while other stretches are designated as catch-and-release zones. It is home to marble trout, brown trout, rainbows, and hybrids, with localized pockets of grayling.
Torrente Alberone.
Joining the Natisone, the Alberone is managed under the farmed trout regime. Its narrow channel and alternating pools make it a classic small-stream fishery for marble trout, stocked rainbows, and browns.
Torrente Cosizza.
A tributary of the Alberone, with some stretches under the farmed trout regime and others designated as catch-and-release zones. This combination ensures good angling action while preserving wild populations. Species include marble trout, browns, rainbows, and hybrids.
Torrente Malina.
Flowing into the Torre, the Malina is managed under the farmed trout regime. It is a modest but attractive stream where marble trout, stocked rainbows, and brown trout dominate.
Torrente Cornappo (including headwater tributaries).
A major tributary of the Torre, including its headwaters. Some stretches are managed under the farmed trout regime, while others are designated as special trout regime zones. This mix creates diverse opportunities for anglers. Species include marble trout, brown trout, rainbows, and hybrids.
Torrente Zimor.
A smaller tributary of the Torre managed entirely under the special trout regime. Its narrow alpine profile makes it a good habitat for marble trout, wild browns, and hybrids, with stricter rules ensuring population health.
Torrente Vedronza (including tributaries).
Another tributary of the Torre, including its feeder streams, managed fully under the special trout regime. It is a typical alpine stream with a mix of marble trout, browns, rainbows, and occasional hybrids.
Rio Uccea (Učja) (including tributaries).
Flowing from the Italian side of the Julian Alps into Slovenia, the Uccea and its tributaries are protected under the special trout regime. This is one of the more remote and wild waters, supporting marble trout, brown trout, and hybrids in crystal-clear alpine pools.
Rio Bianco (including tributaries).
A tributary of the Uccea, managed under the special trout regime. It is a small, pristine stream, ideal for anglers seeking solitude and wild fish such as marble trout, brown trout, and hybrids.
Fishing Manager.
In Italy, fishing waters can be managed by private owners, fishing clubs or by the government at the regional level. In Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) where all of the Soča basin in Italy is found. All angling rights and regulations are coordinated by the "Ente Tutela Patrimonio Ittico" (Fish Heritage Protection Agency), the public body responsible for fisheries management. ETPI is in charge of habitat protection, restocking programs, monitoring fish populations, and enforcing angling rules across the region.
In the Soča (Isonzo) Basin, anglers therefore fish under the ETPI management system, which sets out the annual regulations, zone designations (including special catch-and-release or fly-only areas), and permit requirements.
Regulations.
Fishing rules in Italy vary by organization. Before fishing, you must check the specific regulations and purchase a daily or seasonal permit for that stretch of water. Regulations typically define:
- Allowed species
- Fishing methods
- Bag limits
- Catch-and-release zones
Fishing seasons typically run from April to October, though some sections may have different seasonal restrictions. Always consult the official website of the managing organisation before planning your trip.
Guides.
- Alps Fly Fish.
- Italy on the fly.
- Mountain Stream Fishing Italia.