Barrage de Chantegrêle is a compact 11.8-hectare reservoir in the Creuse offering solid carp prospects alongside pike and tench in a peaceful, undeveloped setting—ideal if you want to escape the busier French waters. Day-fishing only and bank access means you'll need to plan shorter sessions, though the intimate size makes it manageable for focused stalking or static rigs on productive margins. You'll need a French fishing licence and to check with FDAAPPMA 23 or the local AAPPMA before your visit, as access conditions can vary.
Barrage de Chantegrêle is 338 miles from Calais. For UK anglers willing to make the drive into Nouvelle-Aquitaine — a vast region stretching from the Dordogne to the Basque Country, with outstanding fishing across its many departments — the fishing is well worth it.
Night fishing at Barrage de Chantegrêle is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this lake. Creuse's designated night carp venues are: Barrage des Combes, Barrage de Champsanglard, Barrage de Faux-la-Montagne, Barrage de Lavaud-Gélade, Barrage de l'Âge, Barrage de Vassivière. Season: 1 April–30 November. This lake is not among them. Source: fdpeche23.wixsite.com/peche23/carpe-de-nuit Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Barrage de Chantegrêle under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Creuse departmental card (CHI).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 23 / AAPPMA locale. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Barrage de Chantegrêle holds carp, pike, perch, tench, black bass. Carp are the primary draw for visiting UK anglers. All carp should be handled with care and returned promptly. A landing mat and unhooking mat are essential kit for any carp session.
A valid Carte de Pêche is required to fish Barrage de Chantegrêle — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 23 / AAPPMA locale. Licences are available online before your trip.
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2nd Category water. Carp/coarse: open all year. Pike: 25 Apr 2026–31 Jan 2027 (closed Feb–Apr). Zander/Perch/Catfish: all year. Pike season as above.
Always verify current rules with the local AAPPMA (FDAAPPMA 23 / AAPPMA locale) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Barrage de Chantegrêle, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 23 / AAPPMA locale is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Barrage de Chantegrêle is 338 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Creuse is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Creuse or explore all of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
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