What months are best for carp fishing in France?
Although you can go carp fishing in France all year round, some months are better than others. But as general rule of thumb carp like mild water temperatures: they won't bit if it's too cold or too warm. Late March, April to mid-May are great months until the carp start spawning. It's hard to predict when the carp will start to spawn because this depends entirely from the water temperature. The summer is also good, but carp don't like extremely hot weather. In September, October and November the water temperature starts to drop and this is when carp feed heavily to prepare for winter time.
You will of course catch carp at other times of the year. Lakes located in southern France with mild temperatures will also fish well during winter.
Can you fish in France without a license?
If you fish on a public lake you need a fishing license. But you don't need a fishing license if you fish on a private venue. Most of our venues are private, so you don't have to worry about a fishing permit. Vaulaurent is our only lake where a license is required but the lake owner will take care of your license (included in the price)
Want to fish on a public water? You can buy your fishing license at local sporting goods stores, cafés or tourist offices. The approximate costs are: one-day permit--10 euros, for one year--60 euros. Children pay less.
How much it cost Carp Fishing in France
We offer individual swims, lake exclusive bookings and also venues with accommodation.
Individual swims can be booked for one, two or more anglers (depending on the swim size) and prices range between 250€ and 420€ per angler. The average price for a swim though is around 300€. Non fishing guests generally pay around 10€ per night.
The price for a lake exclusive booking depends on many factors like the lake size, popularity, carp stock, etc. If you want to rent a lake privately for your group you'll pay between 1500€ and 2500€ per week for a venue of around 3 to 7 hectares. Larger lakes charge 3000€ per week or more.
For those looking for more comfort, renting a car lake with accommodation can cost between 900€ and 1800€ per week. Obviously, the prices vary according to the surface of the venue, the fish stocks, the level of luxury of the accommodation (hut, safari tent vs luxury villa), etc.
Carp Fishing Holiday in France with Your Family
Here are essential tips for a harmonious family fishing getaway:
- Proximity is Key: Choose a venue close to your point of entry into France to keep travel with children manageable. Some locations, like High Mill Lake, offer convenient airport transfers, enhancing your travel experience.
- Comfortable Accommodation: Gone are the days of "roughing it" on fishing trips. Opt for venues that provide comfortable lodging to ensure your family's contentment throughout your stay.
- Entertainment for All: Investigate local attractions and activities to keep the entire family engaged. Venues near towns with recreational options offer diverse activities, ensuring something for everyone.
- Balancing Fishing with Family Time: While fishing might be your passion, remember to allocate time for family activities. Fishing at dawn or dusk allows you to enjoy quality daytime outings with your family.
- Flexibility and Fun: Approach your fishing holiday with a flexible mindset, prioritising family enjoyment alongside angling. Strategic planning, such as baiting during the day and taking family excursions, ensures everyone has a memorable holiday.
Essential Gear for Carp Fishing in France
While the quality of your gear can enhance the fishing experience, success primarily hinges on understanding carp behavior and habitat. Essential equipment for beginners includes:
- A fishing rod with a length of 3.6m to 3.9m, including a sufficient number of rings and a power range between 2 ½ lbs and 3 lbs can meet the fishing conditions.
- A balanced reel with a reliable and preferably rear brake system.
- A robust, sizeable landing net.
- Appropriately sized hooks and rigs.
- A rod-pod and electronic bait alarm for convenience during fishing sessions.