Étang de Pinaud is a 35-hectare reservoir in central France (333 miles from Calais) offering excellent mixed coarse fishing with solid carp, catfish and pike populations in a peaceful rural setting. Bank fishing only and day-use restrictions mean you'll need to base yourself nearby, but the diverse species mix and pristine woodland location make it worthwhile for UK anglers seeking a quieter alternative to busier French venues. You'll need a valid French fishing licence and must contact AAPPMA locale or FDAAPPMA 23 before your trip to confirm access and current conditions.
Night fishing at Étang de Pinaud is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this lake. Creuse's designated night carp venues are: Barrage des Combes, Barrage de Champsanglard, Barrage de Faux-la-Montagne, Barrage de Lavaud-Gélade, Barrage de l'Âge, Barrage de Vassivière. Season: 1 April–30 November. This lake is not among them. Source: fdpeche23.wixsite.com/peche23/carpe-de-nuit Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Étang de Pinaud under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Creuse departmental card (CHI).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 23 / AAPPMA locale. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Étang de Pinaud holds carp, catfish, pike, perch, zander, tench, bream, black bass. 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 Pinaud — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 23 / AAPPMA locale. 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 23 / AAPPMA locale) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Étang de Pinaud, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 23 / AAPPMA locale is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Étang de Pinaud is 333 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Creuse is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Creuse or explore all of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
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