Estany de la Grava is a intimate high-altitude mountain lake in the Pyrénées-Orientales offering pristine bank fishing for pike, perch, trout and rainbow trout across just 2.6 hectares—a scenic contrast to lowland French stillwaters. Night fishing isn't permitted due to the altitude environment, so plan daylight sessions only, though the remote location rewards early starts. Located 576 miles south of Calais, this is a specialist destination rather than a weekend trip for UK anglers. Practical note: You'll need a valid French fishing licence and AAPPMA day ticket from Fédération Pêche Pyrénées-Orientales (FDAAPPMA 66)—check locally for current availability and species restrictions.
At 576 miles from Calais, Estany de la Grava requires a longer journey from the UK, but Occitanie — a region of warm summers and excellent coarse fishing, particularly for carp and catfish — rewards the trip.
Night fishing at Estany de la Grava is not permitted. Night carp is only permitted on specific named venues in Pyrénées-Orientales (Barrage Agly, Raho, Vinça, Escoumes, Rivesaltes, Villelongue). This lake is not on the list — night fishing prohibited. Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Estany de la Grava under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Pyrénées-Orientales card (CHI).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 66 / Fédération Pêche Pyrénées-Orientales. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Estany de la Grava holds brown trout, rainbow trout, perch, pike. Pike fishing is a highlight of the venue — spinning, deadbaiting and lure fishing are all effective methods.
A valid Carte de Pêche is required to fish Estany de la Grava — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 66 / Fédération Pêche Pyrénées-Orientales. 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 66 / Fédération Pêche Pyrénées-Orientales) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Estany de la Grava, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 66 / Fédération Pêche Pyrénées-Orientales is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Pyrénées-Orientales is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Pyrénées-Orientales or explore all of Occitanie.
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