Barrage des Combes is a modest 32-hectare reservoir in deepest Creuse offering solid mixed fishing for carp, catfish and pike from the bank—though night sessions aren't permitted, so plan day-only tactics. Located 348 miles south of Calais, it's a peaceful, low-pressure alternative to busier French venues, with good populations of tench and bream alongside the main target species. You'll need a valid French fishing licence and to check in with AAPPMA locale 23 before your visit, as this is AAPPMA-managed water.
At 348 miles from Calais, Barrage des Combes requires a longer journey from the UK, but Nouvelle-Aquitaine — a vast region stretching from the Dordogne to the Basque Country, with outstanding fishing across its many departments — rewards the trip.
Night fishing at Barrage des Combes is authorised under Creuse regulations. Night carp confirmed on 1 designated zone. Zone: right bank, commune Felletin, along the road — 10 numbered pegs over ~1,100m. Season: 1 April–30 November. Vegetable baits only. Immediate release. Source: fdpeche23.wixsite.com/peche23/carpe-de-nuit
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Barrage des Combes 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 des Combes holds carp, catfish, pike, perch, zander, tench, bream, 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 des Combes — 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 des Combes, 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 des Combes is 348 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Night fishing is permitted at Barrage des Combes — always check the current rules with FDAAPPMA 23 / AAPPMA locale before your session, as night carp regulations can change seasonally and vary by sector on larger waters.
Creuse is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Creuse or explore all of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
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