This peaceful 12-hectare reservoir in Sarthe offers intimate day-fishing opportunities for carp, tench and pike in a quiet rural setting—ideal if you're seeking a break from busier French venues. Bank fishing only, with no night fishing, so it suits anglers preferring daytime sessions in a more relaxed atmosphere, roughly 230 miles south of Calais. You'll need to contact FDAAPPMA 72 (Fédération Pêche Sarthe) to confirm current access and purchase your daily permit before arrival.
At 229 miles from Calais, Étang de Claire Fontaine is a popular destination for anglers exploring Pays de la Loire, a region with diverse fishing including carp lakes, river pike and coastal species.
Night fishing at Étang de Claire Fontaine is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Sarthe requires specific prefectoral authorisation. Some sites require QR code registration. Check peche72.fr and the annual arrêté Annexe 1 for the full list. Source: peche72.fr
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Étang de Claire Fontaine under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Sarthe departmental card (EHGO).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 72 / Fédération Pêche Sarthe. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Étang de Claire Fontaine holds carp, pike, perch, tench. 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 de Claire Fontaine — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 72 / Fédération Pêche Sarthe. 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 72 / Fédération Pêche Sarthe) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Étang de Claire Fontaine, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 72 / Fédération Pêche Sarthe is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Étang de Claire Fontaine is 229 miles from Calais, around 4 hours from the ferry or tunnel.
Sarthe is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Sarthe or explore all of Pays de la Loire.
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