Trentino Fishing Opens with Abundant Stocking and Large Catches

Full house last Sunday along the banks of the Sarca, between the river mouth and the Sarche Plain and the two Remon streams flowing into Lake Cavedine. Over a thousand anglers gathered, with a high influx from the Padana regions, for the traditional opening of fishing in Trentino’s “running waters,” namely rivers and streams.

The early risers among many to secure “strategic” spots at dawn were rewarded with abundant catches, many of which were large-sized. Contributing to the nearly full baskets was the one cubic meter of water released by Enel compared to previous years.

For the occasion, the Basso Sarca Fishermen’s Association released 1,500 kilograms of adult brown trout, ready for the hook, along with equally many “fry.” Amidst this “abundance of good things,” there were also unlucky fishermen. They will have other chances in the upcoming Sundays when the “assault” on the Sarca and the two Remon streams resumes, although the fishing community will also enjoy the opening of other watercourses.

Other fishing opportunities and environmental considerations

If bad luck persists, there will be consolation in “sport fishing” at Lake Bagatol, north of Dro. Here, for a fee (members of the association even receive a discount), it is easy to make the “tamed” trout bite, making it a favorite spot for kids during the summer.

“With stories of ‘mad cow disease’ and other gimmicks, the Sarca and other waters of the Basso Sarca and the Toblino Plain are even more appreciated, also thanks to the absolute guarantee of fish healthiness —” comments Stefano Trenti, president of the Busa Fishermen’s Association.

“The fish come from our fish farms in Pranzo di Tenno and Pec di Ragoli. Managed by volunteer members, the breeders, as well as the growth cycles of the young fish, are monitored by the S. Michele Agricultural Institute.” In the Busa, fishing is a passionate hobby that increasingly attracts people.

The association led by President Trenti boasted 779 members in 2000, a 100-member increase from the previous year. The vice president of the organization is Mario Matteotti, the secretary Ivan Maino, and the treasurer Aldo Castagnoli.