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Spend four hours fishing in the Ionian Sea alongside an experienced local skipper who knows these waters season by season. Using the traditional bolentino bottom fishing technique, this trip combines relaxed time at sea with hands-on fishing, local knowledge and the chance to catch species commonly found off the Salento coastline.
With all rods, bait and fishing equipment included, the experience is suitable for both beginners and more experienced anglers looking to fish from a local boat rather than a large commercial charter.
After departure from Gallipoli harbour, the skipper heads towards fishing grounds selected according to the weather, season, currents and recent activity in the area. Unlike standard sightseeing trips, this experience is focused around traditional bottom fishing techniques used locally in the Ionian Sea. The skipper provides guidance throughout the session, helping guests prepare bait, position lines and improve technique regardless of previous experience.
Fishing takes place using bolentino, a bottom fishing method designed to target species living close to the seabed. The boat is equipped with rod holders and onboard equipment, creating a comfortable setup for spending several hours fishing offshore. Depending on conditions and the time of year, catches can vary throughout the trip, adding to the authentic nature of the experience.
During quieter moments, guests can relax onboard with views back towards the Gallipoli coastline while enjoying drinks and a light aperitif with local products, fruit, prosecco or wine. If the excursion is booked privately — or if all guests onboard agree — the skipper may also pause near Sant’Andrea Island for a swim stop in clear water before continuing the session.
At the end of the experience, guests keep their catch to take away with them.
This experience takes place off the coastline of Gallipoli in the Ionian Sea, an area well known for its varied marine environment and long local fishing traditions. Depending on sea conditions and the planned route, departures take place either from Scale Nove Pier near the old town or from Portolano Marina.
Fishing locations are selected daily by the skipper based on experience, weather and seasonal conditions rather than following a fixed route. This flexibility helps maximise the chances of productive fishing while keeping the experience comfortable and safe for everyone onboard.
Parking is available near the commercial port area before entering Gallipoli’s old town bridge. Guests are advised to arrive 15–30 minutes before departure.
No previous fishing experience is required. Beginners are welcome and guidance is provided throughout the trip, including how to use the rods, handle bait and work with the bolentino fishing setup.
Guests should bring sun protection, comfortable clothing, swimwear and towels if planning to swim during a stop. Water shoes are recommended. The experience involves standing and moving around a boat for extended periods, so reasonable mobility is advised.
These trips are led by local fishermen with years of experience fishing the waters around Gallipoli and the Salento coastline. Rather than operating as a generic tourist activity, the focus is on sharing genuine local fishing knowledge and adapting the session to current sea conditions and seasonal fish movements.
Smaller group sizes help create a more relaxed and hands-on experience onboard, with time for individual assistance and proper fishing throughout the session. Combined with quality equipment, local hospitality and the chance to keep your catch, the trip offers a more authentic way to experience the Ionian Sea.
No experience is necessary. The trip is suitable for complete beginners as well as more experienced anglers wanting to fish local waters with a knowledgeable skipper.
The skipper explains how the bolentino technique works, helps prepare equipment and assists throughout the session, making it accessible even for first-time fishers.
Bolentino is a traditional Mediterranean bottom fishing technique where lines are dropped vertically towards the seabed to target species feeding near the bottom.
It is a relaxed but active style of fishing that works particularly well in the deeper coastal waters around Gallipoli and is commonly used by local fishermen throughout the region.
The species vary depending on season, water temperature and conditions on the day. The skipper selects fishing spots carefully based on local knowledge and recent activity.
Part of the experience is the unpredictability of sea fishing, meaning no two trips are exactly the same and catches can vary from one session to another.
Yes, fishing rods, bait and onboard fishing equipment are all included within the experience. The boat is also equipped with rod holders to make fishing more comfortable throughout the session.
Guests are welcome to bring their own small fishing accessories if preferred, although it is not necessary.
Yes, guests keep their catch at the end of the trip. Many visitors enjoy taking the fish back to cook later or simply as part of the experience itself.
The skipper can also provide basic guidance on handling and storing the catch after the session.
Yes, the experience includes a light aperitif with local products, fruit, prosecco or wine, as well as free water throughout the trip.
The atmosphere onboard is relaxed and social, with time spent both fishing and enjoying the surroundings offshore.
Yes, families are welcome onboard and children often enjoy the hands-on nature of the fishing experience. Younger guests can participate with help from adults and the skipper where needed.
Life jackets and safety equipment suitable for children are available onboard.
Possibly. If the boat is privately booked — or if all guests onboard agree during a shared trip — the skipper may stop near Sant’Andrea Island for a swim in clear water.
Swim stops always depend on weather, sea conditions and the overall timing of the fishing session.
Shared trips require a minimum number of anglers to operate. If the minimum is not reached, alternative dates or times may be offered.
If no suitable alternative is available, guests receive a full refund.
Guests should bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, swimwear, towels and water shoes if planning to swim during the trip.
A hat, sunglasses and light waterproof layer can also be useful depending on weather conditions during the session.
About the centre
Marina Yachting Portolano
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