Milan, Italy
Prestigious alpine waters
Mar - Dec
Milan, Italy
Is this experience right for me?
Fishing challenge
Physical effort
Non-angler friendly
Technique
Euro nymph & dry
Fish
Brown & Rainbow Trout
Environment
Freestone river
Fly fishing alps around Milan
Embark on an unparalleled fly fishing adventure in Riserva delle Piode, Italy’s most exclusive fishing reserve, located just an hour from Milan. Access to this beautiful stretch of the River Sesia, flowing from the Monte Rosa, is a privilege granted to only a select few, thanks to strict permit regulations. With just a limited number of anglers allowed each day, Piode offers a truly serene and undisturbed experience in an untouched alpine setting.
Spanning 7 kilometers of diverse waters, the reserve presents a dynamic fishing environment: swift currents, deep pools, and glassy runs, allowing anglers to adapt their techniques throughout the day. Whether you prefer streamers, dry flies, nymphing, sight fishing, Czech nymphing, or sedge drifting, the ever-changing river conditions make for a rewarding challenge.
Piode is also steeped in Italian fly fishing history. This is where Val Sesiana, an ancient technique resembling Japan’s Tenkara, was born. Fishing here is more than just the chance to land trophy-sized trout, it's a journey into the origins of Italian fly fishing, where tradition meets world-class angling.
Meeting point
Milan
Milan, the world capital of fashion and design, is a metropolis in Northern Italy and the capital of Lombardy. Home to the Italian Stock Exchange, it is also a financial hub. The Gothic-style Duomo and the Leonardo da Vinci's fresco "The Last Supper," testify to the city's artistic and cultural heritage.
Catches & Technique for fishing Sesia river
The Piode reserve is renowned for its impressive marble trout, brown trout, and the endemic blue fin graylings. Rabbit tail streamers, sedges, peacock emergents, and tungsten head nymphs are effective flies for this location.
For this excursion, guides use 9ft 4/5 WT rods to cast nymphs or small streamers.
The fishing period in Piode stretches from March to December, with peak conditions in April, May, August, September, and October, aligning with autumn hatches and ideal low water levels for dry fly fishing.
Autumn is particularly magical, with explosive hatches that bring the river to life, offering spectacular dry fly fishing opportunities as the fish surface to feed intensively on the abundant insects.
Includes
✅ Professional fly fishing guide
✅ All necessary fishing equipment (rod, flies, waders, boots and lines)
✅ Fishing license
✅ Refreshments and snacks
✅ Lunch & drinks
➕ Accommodation (on request, we arrange it for you)
❌ Flights / travel to reach the meeting point
❌ Anything not explicitly mentioned
FAQ
Are fishing licences included in the price?
Yes.
Licences in Piode cost about 100€ per day. It's one of the most significant daily costs of a fishing trip — which is exactly why we include it in your final quote upfront, so there are no surprises when you arrive.
We handle the purchase for you. You show up, pick up your rod, and fish. If you're planning extra days on the water independently before or after your guided experience, we're happy to help you navigate the process for those too.
Is this itinerary available as a half-day experience?
No, full-day only.
This itinerary is available exclusively on a full-day basis due to the time required to reach the fishing areas and the nature of the experience. A half-day option would limit both fishing time and overall quality.
Is this experience private or group-based?
This Rod Society experience is strictly private and we don't do mixed groups. Your itinerary is fully crafted around your specific group and skill level. Whether you are traveling solo or with a large group, you will have dedicated private guides to ensure a seamless, high-touch experience.
What equipment should I bring?
For fishing in the Sesia River, it's best to use rods that are 9 feet long and suitable for 4-5 weight lines, tailored to the river's conditions and the types of fish targeted. If you don’t have your own gear, don't worry—our guide can provide you with everything necessary, including rods, reels, lines, waders, boots, flies, and more.
It’s still important to dress appropriately for the outdoors, with waterproof gear, layers for changing temperatures, and UV protection. While we offer high-quality equipment, you are welcome to bring your own preferred gear if you wish.
Why should I book here?
We craft itineraries with trusted local guides to ensure an exceptional experience with top professionals who know the waters inside out. We always include fishing licenses, so you don’t have to deal with any local bureaucracy or paperwork. We also provide top-notch equipment: rods, waders, and flies. We travel a lot too, and we know that sometimes you simply can’t carry five rods, boots, waders and bulky gear with you.
We’ve got your back.
Cancellation Policy
Our cancellation policy is designed to be fair and flexible. If you add Flex Cancellation at checkout, you can cancel your reservation up to 14 days in advance and receive a full refund of your deposit. If your plans change but you’d still like to fish with us, you can also reschedule and book another experience. This gives you the confidence to plan your trip knowing you have the flexibility you need.
Which airport is the nearest?
The nearest major city with airport facilities to Sesia River is Milan, which is served by three main airports: Milan Malpensa Airport, Milan Linate Airport, and Milan Bergamo Airport. All three offer extensive domestic and international flights.
Do your guides speak English and other languages?
Yes, all our guides are locals and are trained to communicate effectively with an international audience. They are fluent in English and the local language, and many of them speak additional languages to ensure a seamless experience for everyone.
What happens if the weather is unsuitable for fishing?
If our guides determine that the weather or water conditions are unsuitable for fishing, you will receive a full refund. Alternatively, we can reschedule your trip for the soonest available date that works for you.
If you still need support you can contact us anytime!
From 600€
Fly fish the Sesia, Italy's most exclusive private reserve, one hour from Milan: technical, quiet water in the birthplace of Italian fly fishing.
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