Étang de Riols is a compact 16.6-hectare reservoir in the Loire department offering solid carp fishing alongside pike and tench in a peaceful, undeveloped setting—ideal if you're seeking an authentic French pond experience away from busy commercial venues. Bank fishing only and no night sessions mean early starts and daytime tactics, suiting anglers who prefer a more relaxed pace. You'll need an AAPPMA permit from FD 42 Loire and a French fishing licence; at 389 miles from Calais, it's best combined with other local venues to justify the journey.
Night fishing at Étang de Riols is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Loire requires specific authorisation. 10 named plans d'eau touristiques are authorised — check annex 5 of the règlement intérieur. Night carp also confirmed on the Loire river itself (year-round, bank only). Vegetable baits only. No-kill mandatory. No embarcation at night. Verify this specific lake at peche42.fr/peche-dans-les-plans-deau-touristiques/ Source: peche42.fr
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Étang de Riols under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by FD 42 (Fédération de Pêche de la Loire). Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Étang de Riols holds carp, pike, perch, 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 Riols — you will also need to be affiliated with FD 42 (Fédération de Pêche de la Loire). 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 (FD 42 (Fédération de Pêche de la Loire)) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Étang de Riols, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FD 42 (Fédération de Pêche de la Loire) is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Étang de Riols is 389 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Loire is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Loire or explore all of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
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