Estany Gros is a scenic high-altitude mountain lake in the Pyrénées-Orientales offering intimate bank fishing for trout, pike and perch across its 5.7 hectares—a refreshing alternative if you fancy a break from lowland carping. Night fishing is not permitted due to its elevation, and boats are prohibited, so expect a peaceful, foot-accessible experience with traditional tackle. You'll need a validated AAPPMA licence from Fédération Pêche Pyrénées-Orientales 66 to fish legally.
Estany Gros is 575 miles from Calais. For UK anglers willing to make the drive into Occitanie — a region of warm summers and excellent coarse fishing, particularly for carp and catfish — the fishing is well worth it.
Night fishing at Estany Gros 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 Gros 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 Gros 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 Gros — 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 Gros, 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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