Back in 2011, the rugged coastline of a small island off Western Sicily became the stage for something truly special. Sky TV Italy arrived with their hit series Hot Spot Italia to film an episode that wasn’t just about the fishing—it was about capturing the very soul of the island.
The program aired on PESCA TV (Sky Channel 236), led by the channel’s editorial director, Matteo de Falco. While Matteo focused on the thrill of the catch, the charming Anna Bassano explored the island’s hidden gems, from historic sights to local culture, creating a guide that is as much about the destination as it is about the sport.
Our very own Andrea Giardina took the helm as the local expert, guiding Matteo and his crew through the crashing waves and rocky cliffs to prove that in Sicily, shore fishing is a full-body experience.
More than just a catch
“I don’t know yet if you need to be a good fisherman or a professional hiker for this spot!” Matteo joked as we navigated a labyrinth of ancient stone quarries. Walking through these ruins feels less like a fishing trip and more like a mission to Mars. These “mazes” were carved out centuries ago to build the very cities we see today, and now they serve as the ultimate vantage point for the Mediterranean’s most powerful predators.
As we reached the edge of the cliffs, the sea was deceptively calm—perfect for a swim in the crystal-clear coves, but a challenge for shore spinning. “We need energy and constancy”, Andrea told the crew. “Shore fishing with lures can be stingy. You have to insist, change baits, and jump from spot to spot. That last-second cast, right when you think you’re done? That’s when the strike happens”.
Nature eventually played along. As the wind picked up, so did the adrenaline. Despite the tough conditions, the team landed a jumping Bluefish, Mediterranean Barracuda, and a hard-fighting Amberjack. When the Amberjack came to the surface, the power was undeniable. “An Amberjack this size fights like a 3kg Seabass!” Andrea laughed as they quickly released the fish back into the blue. It’s a game of respect here: catch, admire, and return.
About the place
Beyond the fishing, the island is a stunning blend of natural beauty and ancient history. Just a short walk from town, you’ll find crystal-clear coves and flat rocks that offer some of the best swimming in Sicily. Many of these spots are naturally sheltered from the wind, hiding tiny private beaches and sea caves waiting to be explored.
The landscape is as dramatic as its past: you can swim beneath towering cliffs or explore coastal quarries that drop straight into the turquoise water. But the area is perhaps most famous for its history—it was the site of a pivotal naval battle in 241 B.C. during the First Punic War. Legend has it the clash between the Romans and Carthaginians was so intense that the blood turned the sea red, giving the location its name.
A taste of the “Red Water”
Today, the only red you’ll find is in the kitchen. We sat down with Chef Nino to learn the secrets of the island’s true king: Atlantic Bluefin Tuna.
Matteo: “Ciao Nino! This dish looks incredible. What’s the secret?”
Nino: “It’s a traditional Tuna stew. We use local raisins, pine nuts, capers, and olives. Everything comes from this land.”
Matteo: “And that toasted bread on the side?”
Nino: “That’s the ‘crostino.’ Using stale bread is a local tradition—nothing goes to waste here. Add a glass of dry Sicilian red, and you have the perfect meal.”
Your turn to cast
Whether you’re a die-hard angler or traveling with family, this part of Sicily offers a bit of everything: hidden caves reachable only by swimming, ancient history under your feet, and world-class seafood on your plate.
As Andrea says, a one-day trip is a tease—you really need two or three days to properly discover these “Hot Spots“. We provide the gear, the local knowledge, and the safety equipment (helmets and high-grip shoes are a must on these stones!) to ensure your Sicilian adventure is as legendary as the ones seen on TV. Usually, accommodation, rental vehicle to move from a place to another one, particular restaurant sessions, and full-time guides are part of a shore fishing trip.
