Étang Chapelier is a scenic 46-hectare reservoir in the Dombes plateau region offering mixed coarse fishing for carp, catfish, pike and other species from the bank only. Day fishing only (no night sessions), so it's ideal if you want a relaxed daytime session in a quieter setting away from the usual competition waters. Note: This is a Private Nature Reserve, so confirm access permissions and obtain your AAPPMA licence before planning your trip.
At 375 miles from Calais, Étang Chapelier requires a longer journey from the UK, but Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes — one of France's most varied fishing regions, with venues ranging from Alpine lakes to lowland reservoirs — rewards the trip.
Night fishing at Étang Chapelier is not permitted. Night carp NOT authorised on this lake. The Rhône federation (peche69.fr) explicitly states: 'la pêche de nuit est interdite sur la totalité des lacs et étangs public du département du Rhône'. Only the Rhône and Saône rivers are authorised for night carp. Source: peche69.fr/1646-peche-de-la-carpe-de-nuit.htm Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Étang Chapelier under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by AAPPMA de Villars-les-Dombes. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Étang Chapelier holds carp, catfish, 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 Étang Chapelier — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA de Villars-les-Dombes. 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 de Villars-les-Dombes) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Étang Chapelier, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA de Villars-les-Dombes is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Étang Chapelier is 375 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Rhône is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Rhône or explore all of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
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