Barrage de Moulin Papon is a substantial 92-hectare reservoir in Vendée offering solid opportunities for carp alongside pike, zander and tench in a scenic Atlantic-coast setting, roughly 330 miles from Calais. Night fishing is permitted in designated zones, and electric-motor boats are allowed, giving you flexibility for exploring the water. You'll need an AAPPMA permit from the local federation (FDAAPPMA 85) before fishing.
Night fishing at Barrage de Moulin Papon is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Vendée is authorised on specifically balisaged postes. Two types: 'Permanent' (year-round) and 'Seasonal' (from 1 September). All big Vendée reservoirs are water supply lakes — strict fishing rules apply. Check the interactive map at federation-peche-vendee.fr/quelles-especes/carpe/ before fishing at night. Leave no trace. Only fishers with a valid permit are allowed at overnight posts. Source: federation-peche-vendee.fr/quelles-especes/carpe/
Boat fishing: Boats are permitted at Barrage de Moulin Papon. Barrage lake — boats permitted.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Barrage de Moulin Papon under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Vendée departmental card (EHGO).
Managed by AAPPMA Moulin Papon / FDAAPPMA 85. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Barrage de Moulin Papon holds carp, pike, perch, zander, tench, bream. 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 Moulin Papon — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA Moulin Papon / FDAAPPMA 85. 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 (AAPPMA Moulin Papon / FDAAPPMA 85) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Barrage de Moulin Papon, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA Moulin Papon / FDAAPPMA 85 is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Barrage de Moulin Papon is 329 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Vendée is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Vendée or explore all of Pays de la Loire.
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