Carp Lakes France

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A comprehensive list of holiday and private french carp lakes: it has taken many years of research through magazines, Internet, and word of mouth including public lakes, carp holiday lakes and French public venues.. It is without doubt the largest list of venues ever produced for the carp fishing holiday or pioneer. Through my International carper articles and numerous contacts, I have been able to present you with a website that gives a comprehensive list of public, private, holiday lakes rivers and canals in France, Belgium, Holland, Italy, Spain, Hungary and more!

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IThis list will enable both the pioneer and beginner in search of lakes & rivers. Due to the list being so large you will find only brief overviews rather than an overload of information. Many of them can be located prior to setting foot on French soil by using a good quality large scale map, I find the Michelin map ideal. Steps to locating night lakes are as follows:

1. Choose the region/regions you wish to fish.

2. Search for the name of the lake in the index i.e. In the night list for the Ain region you will notice Etang du Comte a Couloz? The majority of French lakes are named after the nearest town or village. In order to locate the lake you must locate the village of Comte a Culoz.

3. Once you have located the village look for the nearest areas of water i.e. lakes.

4. Shade the lake on your map with a highlighter.

5. If there are several lakes in the vicinity, you will need to carry out some reconnaissance on arrival in order to locate the exact one you are looking for.

6. On arrival enquire locally as to carp stocks, licences and night zones. Always have secondary waters marked on your map in case the first few don't fulfil your criteria as a carp lake.

7. Small lakes (under 20 acres) may not be shown on the map, however once you locate the village from which the lake takes its name you will find the lake close by on arrival.

01 Ain 02 Aisne 03 Allier 04 Alpes Haute-Provence 05 Hautes-Alpes 06 Alpes Maritimes 07 Ardèche 08 Ardennes 09 Ariège 10 Aube 11 Aude 12 Aveyron 13 Bouches du Rhône 14 Calvados 15 Cantal 16 Charente 17 Charente Maritime 18 Cher 19 Corrèze 21 Côte d'Or 22 Côtes d'Armor 23 Creuse 24 Dordogne 25 Doubs 26 Drôme 27 Eure 28 Eure-et-Loir 29 Finistère 30 Gard 31 Haute-Garonne 32 Gers 33 Gironde 34 Herault 35 Ille-et-Vilaine 36 Indre 37 Indre-et-Loire 38 Isère 39 Jura 40 Landes 41 Loir-et-Cher 42 Loire 43 Haute-Loire 44 Loire Atlantique 45 Loiret 46 Lot 47 Lot-et-Garonne 48 Lozére 49 Maine-et-Loire 50 Manche 51 Marne 52 Haute-Marne 53 Mayenne 54 Meurthe-et-Moselle55 Meuse 56 Morbihan 57 Moselle 58 Nièvre59 Nord 60 Oise 61 Orne 62 Pas de Calais 63 Puy-de-Dôme 64 Pyrénées-Atlantiques 65 Hautes-Pyrénées 66 Pyrénées-Orientales 67 Bas-Rhin 68 Haute-Rhin 70 Haute-Saône 71 Saône-et-Loire 72 Sarthe 73 Savoie 74 Haute-Savoie 75 Paris 76 Seine-Maritime 77 Seine-et-Marne 79 Deux-Sevres 80 Somme 81 Tarn 82 Tarn-et-Garonne 83 Var 84 Vaucluse 85 Vendée 86 Vienne 87 Haute-Vienne 88 Vosges 89 Yonne 90 Territoire de Belfort 91 Essonne 92 Hautes-de-Seine 93 Seine-St.-Denis 94 Val de Marne 95 Val-d'Oise

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French public carp lakes in Ain region

Étang de Civrieux-en-Dombes Small public water that is horseshoe shaped, it lies 25 km north of Lyon. Only 2 rods allowed and day fishing only. It is said to be an easy water where 10 fish a day is quite common Lac de Bourg-en-Bresse, near Bouvent This lake is approx 45 acres can accomodate many anglers at a time - Nightfishing is not allowed, 4 rods are allowed Further info: River Ain This river is not a popular river but does contain good carp including many wildies. Areas worth exploring are Retenue de Cize-Bolozon and Retenue d'Allement Nightfishing 2004 - seek local advice for night zones Lac de Ambronay AKA Longeville near Chenavieux This lake has produced a number of big carp, the biggest problem being that night fishing is only allowed at weekends along the A40 bank, the locals like to keep it to themselves. My comment: A good big fish lake that is not yet widely known to the English. Comte, Étang de, Culoz Nightfishing is allowed. Cormoranche, Étang de, Cormorance-sur-Saône This "Parc de Loisirs" lake has produced some good carp. Including mirrors of 26,2 and 20,93 kg; Night fishing is not allowed but rumour has it that night fishing will be available in the comming years. Dragages de Saint-Denis-les-Bourg, Plan d'eau de, Bourg-en-Bresse, This 130 acre gravel pit is still working in some areas, the small river La Veyle enters and leaves the pit. Depths average 20 - 30 feet in the deepest areas. There are many carp in the 25 - 30 lb bracket and a lake record of approx 52 lb. Catfish to over 100 lb are also present. There are 10 swims where night fishing is allowed on the southern banks on weekends only. More info on 06 20 25 45 38. Lac de Divonne-les-Bains Night fishing is allowed at weekends on this 85 acre venue Les étangs de Dombes These lakes are well known for their carp farming. Over 3000 ton of carp are reared each year for food and stocking into other lakes Le plan d'eau des, Neuville les Dâmes, Granges Nightfishing is allowed. Plan d'eau de Longeville near Pont d'Ain The clear waters of this 120 acre venue hold a good stock of carp and night fishing is allowed from Friday to Monday on the bank nearby the main road. The swims have good access but it is a pressured lake. The depths average 12 feet. Lac de Montrevel-en-Bresse More information on this lake is requested - French carp matches are held here Retenue de Moux Nightfishing allowed on the left bank on the treefringed part from 500 meters upstreams the to the RD 18 bridge, and on the right bank from the old road and to the RD 18 bridge. Lac de Nantua near Nantua The rounded lake Nantura is approx 250 acres in size with quite steep banks, due to this it is not pressured but can be difficult to fisnd a swim. Permits can be purchased in Nantua or Oyonnax. Lac des Bourg-en-BresseOrcière This 50 acre lake holds a lot of carp in the 15 - 25 lb bracket Depths average 12 feet - no night fishing is allowed Etang de la Culoz near Rica Night fishing is allowed - more info requested River Saône near Pont de Vaux This section is known for its density rather than the biggest fish, it is said to be quite productive at times. Night fishiung - Pont de Vaux. Thoissey on both banks Étang de Tallard French carp matches are held at this lake - more info please.

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Lakes in France - Aisne region

Lac Chamouille near Laon A scenic lake that has only recently opened for night fishing. The lake size is approximately 300 + acres Plan d'eau Pommiers 4 rods are allowed on this lake that has just opened for night fishing Plan d'eau, Tergnier Nightfishing allowed. Lac Monampteuil near Laon Access to the long shallow boating lake can be difficult unless the local tackle shop owner opens the secure gate, wherupon you are able to drive and drop your kit off. Sunday arrival is not advised as the shop is closed! It is a fairly shallow venue that has produced carp to over 50 lbs, however many carp of 5 - 10 kg were stocked several year ago whic were a nuissance at the time. Maybe they have grown on since the? Best areas are at the bottom end near the pads. Étang de Olezy Part of the Ballastières de Vendeuil lakes. There have been a number of carp over 55 lb caught from here but they are kept quiet! Some of the big carp were killed a few years back, but still contains some impressive fish for the size of lakes. More info required? Roseau There are two lakes onsite ran as carp fisheries, they contain a number of good carp, catfish and sturgeon. Telephone 06200 47 129 Canal Saint-Quintin There are many night zones on the canal, some of them producing some good fish, although you wouldnt think it looking at the size of them. Étang de Saint-Quentin near the village of Sinercy A small lake that has produced at least 2 different 60s, however both were killed! More info required please? Domaine de la Vallee - AKA Horse lake This French owned private fishery is amongst the most scenic you will come accross in this region. It contains carp to 60 lb. The onsite facilities are reasonable. Angling lines take UK reservations for this lake. There are extensive beds of lillies and other features. It is not the easiest of lakes but one worth considering if you are stepping up from small commecial lakes to the larger bigger lakes. A fish known as the horse gave this lake its nick name of Horse lake. Ballastière Vendeuil A lake that has produced some very big fish, unfortunately some of them were stolen and placed in a French owned commercial venue. Étang de Viry-Noureuil I dont know too much about this lake, however am informed that night fishing is allowed and has produced carp to over 40 lbs. Etang Trelou Nightfishing is allowed, I have heard whispers about it, but not wet a line their. if you have more information please pass it on.

Carp lakes in France - Allier region

River Allier Nightfishing is allowed a many stetches of the River Allier, so many that it is impossible to list them all. There are good carp in the river, maize and boilies work well. Seek advice from the local tackle shops for current night zones. Barrage de Bazergues near Commentry Night fishing is allowed from the 16 April to 4 July and from August 6 to the 29 th. A bit of a strange night fishing season I know! More info on these lakes requested? I am informed that more information can be had from: Contact - Serge Dumont Tel: 06.19.52.28.25 or 04.70.99.29.73 Plan d'eau de Billy et Marcenat. This area is also known as Pré-Garba. I am informed that Nightfishing is allowed all year? Commune de Jaligny sur Besbre Nightfishing Iis allowed during July and August, on the banks from Pont de la Chaume to Moulin de la Chaume. Canal de Roanne à Digoin near Avrilly Nightfishing is allowed from June to September Canal Latéral near Diou Nightfishing is allowed at certain times of the year The Creuse near Montlucon There are many night fishing zones in the areas, seek local advice. Étang de Gouzolles This lake was featured in a European Carp magazine, I dont know much more about the venue? The Loire near Avrilly Loads of night fishing zones, seek local advice from tackle shops. Étang du Pirot, Forêt de Troncais near Cerilly Kids matches are organised on this lake, this is normally an indication of a heavily stocked venue. Lac de Roanne near Saint Clément No nightfishing is allowed on this lake, although there are camp sites on its banks. I have been informed that boats are required to reach the best swims

Carp lakes - Alpes Haute-Provence

Le lac Forestière I have read some reports on this venue in European magazine, any further info would be appreciated. Les lacs Buissonades Le lac de Castillon 3 night fishing sections on this well stocked venue, my information comes via the Intenet but there is quite a lot of information on the french version of yahoo www.yahoo.fr The lake record is over 40 lbs. The lake is approximately 20 acres.

Ardennes lakes & rivers with night fishing

River Meuse Runs into France bordering Luxembourg, Belgium before it enters France. There are many night fishing sections some good some only producing smaller carp. The river has a number of slow moving areas, at some points it is more than 200 yards wide. A lot of bait is required to bring in the bigger fish. It is a scenic river that has produced carp to over 55 lbs, however there are almost definately bigger fish swimming in some stretches. Night fishing areas are as follows: Ardennes near Bazeilles, Sedan which can be found on the Michelin map 23 grid E4 There have been carp caught to over 50 lbs from this stretch. Bogny-sur-Meuse Night fishing is allowed at Braux, Levrezy and Chateau Regnault Near Mézières Night fishing is allowed near the village of Turbines Bayard. Night fishing zones at Sedan near Autrecourt There are a couple of night zones near Deville. Night fishing zones at Laifour. There is a lake at Nouvion-sur-Meuse which allows night fishing. Etang Padou near Charleville-Meziers This lake is approximately 60 acres in size and pressured by the Belgium, Dutch and German anglers. It has produced carp to over 60 lbs. Night fishing is allowed on the entire lake. The average depth is 12-20 feet, however there a number of shallower areas. The licence can be purchased from Mondial peche (fishing shop) on the outskirts of Charleville-Meziers. I fished this lake several years ago, it contained big carp then, I am unsure how much they have grown on since thn. Boats allowed, 4 rods allowed, night fishing allowed. Lac de Vieille Forges near the village of Renwez. Night fishing is allowed on this 350 acre water that has produced carp to nearly 70 lbs. However a number of smaller fish were introduced in 2000, these fish are growing on and now average between 20 - 30 lb. I have heard roumers that the biggest fish have not been caught for a while! However there are still plenty of back up fish. The lake bed is littered with tree stumps in some areas. It is a very scenic lake set in deep forest. The local tackle shop sells the licence, boats are allowed, 4 rods are allowed. Lac Donchery This scenic lake contains many islands, gravel bars depps and shallows. It has produced many big carp and is nice lake to fish. The swims are well spread and fairly comfortable. It is on the same licence as Padou.

Arige lakes

Lac de Montbel Lac Montbel is over 1200 acres in size, it is manmade and nestles at an altitude of over 400 meters above mean sea level. The clear rich water has produced carp over 50 lbs. Best spots tend to be from the lake islands. The current lake record stands at over 55 lbs. Night fishing is allowed all year, it is not an easy venue and good location and effort is needed to locate the larger specimens. It is a venue that is suited to the pioneering angler, carp over 60 lbs are rumored!

Aube carp fishing lakes

Lacs de la forêt d'Orient - The Orient Most of us have heard of the Orient? It is a large lake that has been featured in many magazines and website's due to the very large carp that are swimming within it. The lake depth averages 8 -20 feet and predominantly clay bottomed. There a number of night fishing zones, however in comparison to the lake size the night fishing zones are small and limited. As with Lac Du Der Chanty, I would recommend the roving day fishing approach for best results. Andy Chambers had a good result on this lake in 2004 however bare in mind he was there for several weeks! Long range tactics are the norm! A fish finder, life jacket and decent boat is recommended. Unless you hit it lucky at the right time of year, long periods of inactivity should be expected. A carte de peche can be purchased from various sites around the lake. The record is still held by the famous "bulldozer" at over 34 kg! Try the following french links for more info: lac Temple and Amance The later of these 2 lakes is the home of the world carp classic competition! It is another lake covering a large area, however if you look at the catch rate of the world carp classic it soon becomes clear that the majority of anglers blank for their £500! If you are going to either of these venues for a short session i.e. a week, then I recommend you stay mobile and fish the day zones rather than be confined to the night fishing areas. Most of us working men/women do not have the time to sit for weeks at a time waiting for the carp to come into the night areas. Be realistic in your approach, if you wish to succeed in a short session be prepared to move to fish, keep your eyes open and move at the drop of a hat! This is the most successful approach on these big lakes. Licence's can be purchased from many bars, shops around the lake. The carp are wary of the night zones. The lake record for each venue is over 30 kg! Clérey gravel pit The lake is open for night fishing from 01 June to 15 Sept Des Petits Pleux, Mériot, Nogent-sur-Seine. This private lake lies to the west of Nogent, the stock is unknown. Étang Brun Carp to over 35 lb have been caught and reported in a french carp magazine 4 rods allowed Canal de Villiers near Beaulieu Nightfishing 2004 is allowed from l'écluse de Beaulieu which is located on the departmental border of the Aube/Seine-et-Marne the stretch also includes night fishing on gravel pit connecting known which is approximately 10 acres in size. Etang de La Horre - Montier-en-Der. Commercial lake ran by www.frenchcarpinguk.com la Horre is well known within carp angling circles, it is owned by well known french fish farmer Patrick Bachellier. The lake contains at least 4000 big carp of which a good percentage are over 35 lbs! I wrote an article for International carper after having 16x 40s between our group: Read article below for further details!! La Horre French Carping UK Intro Several months ago I sent an email to French Carping UK with a request to be granted the privilege of fishing and writing an article on one of their lakes, in particular La Horre. A few weeks later the annoying delkim ring tone of my mobile signaled an incoming call from the said company. Rob one of the directors asked, would you like to fish La Horre Rod? Let me think about that one, after all of 0.5 of a nana second I gave him the answer, yes and I am available at short notice. The arrangements were made, the air was punched, a trip to the awesome venue was penciled into my year planner. The name La Horre is synonymous within the carp fishing grapevine due to the large numbers of big carp that it contains, including at least 3 over 67 lb and an estimated 400-600 over 40lbs. If that is not enough to wet your appetite the remainder of the stock are mainly upper 30s, it is without doubt a fantastic big fish commercial venue! All of French Carping UK venues are within easy reach of Calais and a 3.5 hour journey that entails following the main A26 south, past Reims then cross country to the center of the Champagne region, a beautiful area of France that is renowned for producing big carp. As its name suggests it is famed for the high quality bubbly produced in the region. Don't forget the champagne glasses! The journey included a guided tour of their other venues, namely Brocard and Jonchery. On arrival at la Horre I was shattered, but the detours were worth it. Throughout the twenty years of fishing in France I have come across few venues that are able to match the scenery, space between swims and amount of big carp that these lakes contain, impressive is an understatement! At last we arrive at La Horre: I am now sitting in a swim, laptop resting on my knees typing this article. Every so often the silence is disturbed, a quick raise of my inquisitive eyes reveals an carp aerial display. Every so often note is made of the areas where they are giving away their presence. The estimated weights being between 40-60 lbs! The water buffalos are creating quite a commotion as bow waves expand from the epicenter of the eruption. What a show of strength and I'm enjoying every minute of it, the stuff of carp anglers dreams. You may be interested to know that the current rules are being revised for the 2006 season and Patrice the famed bailiff has given up his position. The rules for next year have been decided and sensible but not as stringent as in the past. The new bailiff is not yet known, but am assured the selected person will speak good English (maybe even from the UK) I am told the person will be friendly and posses good customer communication skills. I have been looking for a high quality venue to run a couple of matches on next year, La Horre has everything required, therefore have took the liberty of reserving 2 separate weeks for 2 events during 2006. One being a pair's match held during the last week of August the other being for the British Army Carp Classic. Further details will be available through my own site (www.anglinggraphics.com) and the website of French Carping UK (www.frenchcarpinguk.com) Alternately look for the details within the pages of angling publications magazines in the coming months. Facilities The amenities are located at the entrance to the lake and consist of 2 showers, toilets and washbasins. There are several supermarkets within a 15-minute drive, including the well known Intermarche and Aldi. A good quality mosquito net is recommended, as shallow reed lined lakes such as this tend to be a haven of the biting pests, especially during mid summer. The nearby hunting shop sells various sizes and colors, as well as basic items of tackle. The bailiff takes bread orders on a daily basis. There is nothing quite like a fresh baguette coated in French butter and dipped into soup, a daily snack that I have become accustomed to over the years. A selection of tackle and bait is available from the onsite house shop, including well-prepared particles and a full range of boilies. Fish As previously stated the fish stock is impressive with a number of carp over 60 lbs and at least 3 above 67lb. Carp between 50 – 60 lb are so common that the numbers are not known. 13 x 50s and a 62 is an example of one of the many big hits from La Horre this year! During my visit a total of 21 carp over 40 lbs and many upper 30s were caught to 10 anglers. A couple of 50s were banked to a German further down the lake, I am not sure of the swim number but believe it was in the region of number 12. The La Horre stock has been grown on under the guidance of well-known French fish farmer Patrick Bachellier, whom I had the pleasure of meeting. He is responsible for supplying many UK owned French lakes with their big fish; I am told he is the biggest fish farmer in France. A number of sturgeon were introduced a few years ago, they are now averaging between 20 – 35 lbs. The current lake record mirror stands at an impressive 69 lb + and is a fish that I would be proud to cradle. On a somber note: one or two fish have had their tales cut, they are few and far between and don't believe it is the way of English anglers! If you whoever you are happen to be one of the culprits, be warned: eventually you will be caught! The words that are rolling of my tongue to describe you are probably the same as most decent anglers think, you pieces of S…! What the majority and I think of you cannot be described in this piece nor found within the Oxford dictionary! Stop this mutilation of our beloved species! Rules The vast majority of the stock are in immaculate condition, possibly due to the strict carp care rules that were enforced in the past. This years rules include the unhooking of carp in the water on large beanie type mats. The said rule has been changed for next season, large unhooking beds are being manufactured and placed in every swim. Another rule change worth mentioning is that shock leaders will be allowed under the 2006 rules, providing a run ring safe release system is incorporated This year sees the first season of no boats, it has made a big difference to the fishes behavior, it is the first time for many years that numbers of carp have been observed within a few yards of the bank. Even though the rowing of rigs was never allowed there was always a few that ignored the rule, hence the reason boats were banned. Boats can do more harm than good as anglers strive to get a little further than their neighbors resulting in the carp moving further out. The majority of carp caught during my visit came from spots under 100 yards Swims and features The lake is said to cover an area of 250 acres with only 28 anglers allowed at any one time. The swims can be booked upon reservation, if however you feel the need to move, ensure you clear it with the onsite bailiff first. Each swim has a stable platform that has been designed for 2 anglers using 3 rods each. There are at least 100 yards between each swim giving ample room to fish left and right. It is comfortable fishing without the fear of others encroaching on your spots. The anglers who had the 2 fifties were fishing swims in the upper teens, they being located on the bank closest to the house. Swims 1 to 6 are the furthest from the facilities and popular with English anglers. However those in the know are aware that some of the biggest fish have been landed between swims 10 – 15 and will be amongst my first choice for future sessions. The main feature is the old riverbed that runs approximately 80 – 100 yards from the bank; it is a patrol route and a good place to intercept them. The abundant weed beds can also be worth a rod, especially in the summer months as they contain an abundance of natural food. They are literally alive with over sized water snails, a natural food larder that is a magnet to the fish. The average depth is 4-6 feet with the topography being fairly even. The bottom is predominantly silted: either pull back or tether the cast to ensure the lead/rig is not buried. Approach La Horre is one of the largest commercial venues in France and may be a little intimidating to those that are accustom to smaller lakes. As I tell the missus don't let size put you off. It can be easier to catch from here than many of the smaller waters, largely due to the carp population. Both single hook baits and heavily baited areas produced well, it is difficult to say which was best. Baits consisted of BCUK mixed particles/ boilies, Eurotec freezer boilies/stick mix and mainline hook baits. I am not sponsored by all of those companies; the anglers I was fishing with were affiliated to them, so a bit of free bait came my way. Most good quality baits will catch on any venue when placed in the right spots, this lake is no different. The business end encompassed stiff flouro carbon of approximately 8 inches in length and a breaking strain less than the mainline. Anti tangle tubing was used due to being part of the rules for this season. A marker, spod rod and throwing stick are invaluable, most of the anglers opted for tight baited areas placed in the old riverbed. Martin and big Ron of A&J carp tours were part of the group and fished from swim 6. They followed the pyramid mass baiting approach and worked hard with the spod all week. After a couple of days the carp came across the area in numbers. It was not unusual for them to land a brace of mid 40s during the course of a night; their spod mix was doused with CC Moore red venom (robin red type liquid) Rob and Jud from from French Carping UK varied their approach from singles to tight baited areas, I landed a couple of carp on Robs rods whilst he succumb to the call of nature or when away photographing others anglers success! Cheers fella! Darren the head bailiff of Swan valley did well with most of his fish coming to a sporadic baited area within 40 yards of the bank. The biggest fish of the week was a 48 lb common and landed on the last night by the sales rep from BCUK, his partner in crime Brian also managed a number of mid 40s to the same particle and boilie approach. So there you have it a quick run down of the baits and methods adopted by the group. From this information you can make some assumptions of the possible baiting situations to adopt? Cray fish activity was sporadic: they are present but not to the degree of presenting a major problem. During two days of low pressure they became more active and I felt a need to use netted hook baits. However I was the only one that did, the others were able to fish standard baits, maybe my area had more crays? I would recommend shock leaders on at least one range rod (2006 season rules). Conclusion La Horre is my type of venue! The situation in the past made it difficult to run a match. Due to the revision of rules and bailiff change it is now a reality! In addition to the competition reservations next year I will be spending a little more time on its banks, at least until I have photographs of one or two of the larger inhabitants in my album. In the words of Arnie, "Ill be back" P.S Please don't book, as I would prefer to have as few people as possible on the lakes that I intend to fish! For reservation contact the exclusive UK booking agents: French Carping UK www.frenchcarpinguk.com Tel: 01204886226 Alt: 07979274300 Email: rob@frenchcarpinguk.com Other venues Jonchery (25acres) 6 double swims Jonchery is ideal for those looking for fairly easy fishing; the average size is not quite that of La Horre but still contains carp to over 50 lbs. It is suited to single or group bookings and ideal for the first trip. The anglers managed over 80 fish to 44 lbs during the week prior to my viewing visit. Brocard lakes The two lakes on this complex are Barriere and Fontaine Aux Loups: Barriere has 4 double swims, a number of overhanging trees and very scenic. I was invited to visit the venue to see if I was interested in fishing it. After visiting the lake and seeing photos of its stock I intend to wet a line there as soon as possible. It has a large stock of big carp and catfish. Fontaine Aux Loups is approximately 37 acres in size and has 7 double swims. I have come across many lakes where the anglers are crammed like sardines along the banks! All of these venues have ample space between swims; note the number of swims in comparison to the size of the lakes! Another pencilled in for a future trip. Etang Maurepaire This lake is a well known commercial venue, another of Patrick Bachelliers lakes that is currently ran under the biggest carp agency, angling lines. It has received a overhaul with many new big carp being stocked. It received a difficult reputation in the past, however the introduction of the new stock should make it fairly easy for the first year! Étang du Bligny near Patis A commercial lake with carp to 40 lbs and night fishing. Étang Renarde in the Champagne region Carp to over 50 lbs previously ran by fishing adventures. There are at least 10 carp over 40 lbs, I am not sure which agency now takes UK reservations. Etang St Christophe There are a couple of UK and European agencies taking reservations for this lake. Angling solutions are the UK agency. The lake is quite pressured for a commercial venue and contains carp to over 55 lbs. The lake is over 40 acres and quite deep in places. For more info contact: www.anglingsolutions.com Lac De Lesmont Another lake I have recently visited for an article in International carper magazine: Lac Des Lesmont Intro Whilst in session at La Horre I decided to take a few hours break and carry out a RECCE of the blue spots close to the town of Brienne Le Chateau. Several lakes were visited and one particular lake stood out as a possibility for a future article. The lake is a recent addition to the commercial water scene having been purchased last Summer and only recently opened as a fishery. The owners Andy & Marie have since given the lake and site a complete makeover, with the help of the handy man and onsite bailiff Dave Toyer. Their aim was to create the ideal carp fishing holiday venue, a lake that would be suited to all, from the hardened angler to those looking for fairly easy fishing in clean secure surroundings. The makeover included the building of new swims, facilities and a 2 storey cabin, it is now ready in all respects and must say it is now an excellent venue! They have created a fishery that will be become renowned for its large stock of good-sized carp, excellent facilities that is ran by a helpful English bailiff. The venue lies in the county of Aube in the heart of the Champagne region, an area synonymous for producing some of the largest carp in the country. The journey from Calais is fairly straight forward, south on the A26 to below Reims followed by a 20 minute cross country drive to the lake. It took us 3.5 hours with a toll cost of approximately 25 euros, be aware that toll prices do vary: depending on size of vehicle or if a trailer is being towed. Unlike most commercial venues in France this lake is open all year, winter rates differ to the summer by 20 percent. It amazes me how many UK anglers hang up their Euro rods during the cooler months, winter fishing on the continent can be rewarding as the carp are at their heaviest. I am considering return trip to Lesmont in December, fishing from the cabin! Picture the scene: sitting in that fresh wood smelling lodge, watching a DVD whilst sampling the quality champagne of the region, awaiting a run from the rods situated on the balcony only 10 yards away, with the possibility of catching a big fish at their heaviest weights? I would much prefer these comforts than the hardships of the winter bivvy, wouldn't you? Approach Due to having only 60 hours fishing on Lesmont to write this piece it was pressure angling at it best, normally I prefer to spend at least 5 days, which enables me to research each swim, features and find some successful methods, however the 60 hours were enough! Despite the odds being against us, the fishing surpassed expectations as we managed to land over 30 carp, 10 of which were above 30 lb (13.5 kg) and included 2 x 40s (17.5 kg), the biggest being over 48 lb (22 kg), a right result in the time available? The onsite bailiff was there to greet us on arrival, due to the time constraints it was necessary to get started as quick as possible, however the golden rule of location was still in our mind. As we stood on the cabin balcony a couple of carp crashed giving away their presence, no need to look any further! It was then a case of finding features around that area, where they were likely to pick up a hook bait. The obvious spots were at the base of the marginal drop, close to the lodge tree line. With the use of a marker float rod the marginal baseline was located. A couple of kilograms of hemp and Lac Lesmont onsite special boilies were scattered under the overhanging trees and towards the selected areas. Rigs were kept basic consisting of approximately 10 inches of flouro carbon to a size 4 teflon line aligner. Within a couple of hours Rob managed to land a couple of small but hard fighting carp. The area was topped up with another kilo boilies, hoping that the boilie only approach would pull in a better stamp of fish. We used a total of 20 kg of 20 mm boilies during the short session, topping up as we felt it necessary.

That night my first carp came in the way of a mid 20. After that they just kept coming, it was tiring but rewarding. I had 2 runs at once on several occasions and when the bigger carp moved in we would often have braces or trios of 30s on the mats. Due to a few snags under the tree line, we used armaled lockjaw clips, they worked as expected dropping the lead every time a carp attempted to find sanctuary. Due to the onsite boilie's going in on a regular basis, the fish do recognize them as an established food source, all rods were switched to them. In total I landed 20 carp to over 40 lb (17.5 kg) with 8 over 30 lbs (13.5 kg), Rob managed 11 to 48 lb (22 kg). My biggest fish was a fish is known as Physco, an aptly named fish as it fought like Mike Tyson and went mad on the mat. Robs 48 mirror was just as powerful and known as Ronny after the Kray twins. All of my fish were above 25 lbs (12 kg), not a bad average for any venue? A word of advice; these carp are extremely powerful and are amongst the hardest fighting lake carp that I have ever caught, for some reason the Lesmont fish are extra fierce! Facilities The two-storey cabin is ideal for those wishing to take their better half, due to being of new build; it is absolutely immaculate and still retains that aroma of wood! The single and double bedrooms are more than suitable for a family. If an extra bed is needed the settee doubles as a sofa bed. The kitchen is modern, clean and has all of the facilities and utensils to whip up the heartiest of culinary delights, including pots, pans, kettle, cutlery, fridge freezer, microwave English sockets, gas cooker, toaster, adaptors and more. Other facilities and appliances include shower, toilet, washbasin, telephone, DVD player, TV (satellite planned), storage area, private bivvy area and small grassed area where the kids can play badminton etc I was actually booked to stay in the lodge and planned to fish from the comforts of it, however on arrival myself and Rob decided it was too clean for us and better left that way i.e. we are both rough round the edge type carp anglers, without doubt we would have had it smelling of carp au de toilet within days! The standard facilities for those that have not booked the cabin are also of a high standard including mens/womens toilet, Fridge freezer, microwave, hot clean showers, storage room, electric points for bait boats, telephone and shaving point. Most essential items and baits are sold onsite including a large range of Nash boilie's, dips, glugs, pop ups, batteries, terminal tackle, pellets of various types, well prepared particles including hemp and maize. Large beanie mats are available for hire, which is a good idea as it prevents your car from smelling of fish, we all know it takes weeks to get rid of that smell. A number of supermarkets can be found in the local town, 10 minutes down the road including Aldi, Champion and Intermarche. The bailiff Dave is an experienced carp angler and lives onsite, he is able to monitor the fish's movements and habits and will give advice when requested. He knows the features of the lake; a wise man would ask his advice on arrival! All of our fish came to the Lac Lesmont boilie's, they are similar in price to what you would expect to pay in the UK. They are specially designed for the nutritional requirements of that strain of carp. Due to them going in on a regular basis they are established and recognised as a food source for that reason I recommend you use them on one or two rods. Fish The original stock consisted of 300 - 400 mirrors, commons and grass carp, it was enhanced in Nov 2004 with 1.5 ton of carp ranging from 22 – 47 lb (11 kg – 21 kg). An additional half-ton of 30 lb (13.5 kg) plus carp were added in late Nov. This year 10 x 30s (13.5 kg), 2 x 50s (23kg) and a 67 lb (30 kg) catfish have been stocked. The 2 fifties are known as Ronny and Regie, after the Krays, why? They are known to be right tearaways! The current lake record is not expected to stand for long as the fish are gaining some impressive weights. The current records stand at 56.2 lb (25 kg) mirror and 45.8 lb (20 kg) common. Weight gains taken into consideration, the lake now contains an estimated 100 x 30s (13.5 kg), 40 x 40s (17.5 kg) and 6 x 50s (22.5 kg). Rules The main rules are: 1.No plastic 2.All fish to be treated with carp clinic 3.No lead core 4.No unattended rods 5.No rowing boats (remote control boats are allowed) 6.No encroaching on other anglers swims 7.Particles must be purchased onsite – pre orders are taken upon reservation 8.3 rods per angler Swims and features The mature triangular shaped gravel pit has many features including a number of prominent gravel bars, marginal spots, snags, gravel humps, bumps and overhanging trees. All of the swims have been strategically located i.e. all have features of some description in front of them. There is ample room to park the car within your own area, therefore the carp porter can stay at home as there are no long walks with the gear. 4 of the swims are big enough for 2 large bivvie's and still have ample room to cast and play fish. Swim numbers and features are as follows: Swim 1 is an ideal margin swim where it drops of from 5 to 25 feet, the base of the drop off is a good spot to place a bait, especially at night as the fish often patrol this area. Swim 2 has a pronounced gravel bar running from the bank to its front and a dead tree in the margins to the right. Swim 3 is the cabin swim, it has overhanging trees, sub surface snags either side and some gravel patches and holes to its front. The swim can be fished without booking the cabin. Swim 4 has a small bar running out from the right margin, the main feature is the overhanging tree line. There are a few underwater snags close to the overhangs that you should be aware of. Swim 5 has a long gravel bar that extends to the front with a depth of 14 ft at the base and 3 feet on top. Swim 6 has a few humps and bumps with a number of rough patches. Swim 7 has a few reeds and a gravel bar that has a depth 9 feet on top. Swim 8 has a few weed patches and an overhanging tree to the left. For those who own a remote control boat the far marginal tree line is a productive area. Swim 9/10 is a double swim that has some nice overhanging trees on the opposite bank, there are also a few snags that normally hold carp. Swim 11 is located at the top end of the lake; slightly stronger tackle is recommended, as there are a number of underwater snags. Rigs encompassing a lead release system are required and is a swim recommended for the more experienced angler. Conclusion I am often asked where can I take my wife fishing? You wont go far wrong on this lake! The onsite cabin is located next to some prime features and attractive for both the family angler and those who opt for a little more comfort than sleeping in a bivvy. An extra incentive is presented to the angler that lands the largest fish of the week in the way of a silver fishing reel key ring. Overall, Lac des Lesmont has a good stock of carp of all sizes, it is relaxing holiday fishing and immaculate with good facilities! A good quality commercial venue, Enjoy!