Étang de la Folie is a compact 32-hectare reservoir in the Ardennes offering solid carp fishing alongside catfish, pike and zander—ideal if you want variety without travelling hours from Calais (118 miles). Day fishing only and bank access keeps things straightforward, though you'll need to plan your sessions carefully around daylight hours. Pick up your AAPPMA card locally before fishing, as it's required for this venue.
Night fishing at Étang de la Folie is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Ardennes requires specific prefectoral authorisation. Main carp venues are Lac des Vieilles Forges and Étang de Bairon. Check peche08.fr for the current list before fishing at night. Source: peche08.fr
Required permits & cards: Ardennes card or Grand-Est reciprocity.
Managed by AAPPMA locale Ardennes. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Étang de la Folie 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 de la Folie — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA locale Ardennes. 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 locale Ardennes) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Étang de la Folie, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA locale Ardennes is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Étang de la Folie is 118 miles from Calais — reachable on the day of crossing.
Ardennes is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Ardennes or explore all of Grand Est.
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