Étang de Vivale is a modest 13-hectare reservoir in Haute-Vienne offering peaceful day fishing for carp, tench and pike in the heart of rural Nouvelle-Aquitaine — a relaxed alternative to busier northern venues, roughly 376 miles south of Calais. The intimate bank-only setting suits anglers seeking a quieter French experience with decent mixed species potential, though night fishing isn't permitted. You'll need a valid AAPPMA licence and should check locally with FDAAPPMA 87 before visiting, as smaller regional waters can have specific access requirements.
Étang de Vivale is 376 miles from Calais. For UK anglers willing to make the drive into Nouvelle-Aquitaine — a vast region stretching from the Dordogne to the Basque Country, with outstanding fishing across its many departments — the fishing is well worth it.
Night fishing at Étang de Vivale is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Haute-Vienne is authorised on specific designated sites per annual arrêté. The federation manages 9 conceded plans d'eau in the department. Check federation-peche87.com for the current list of night carp sites. Source: federation-peche87.com
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Étang de Vivale under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Haute-Vienne departmental card.
Managed by FDAAPPMA 87 / AAPPMA locale. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Étang de Vivale holds carp, pike, perch, tench, 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 Vivale — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 87 / 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 87 / AAPPMA locale) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Étang de Vivale, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 87 / AAPPMA locale is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Étang de Vivale is 376 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Haute-Vienne is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Haute-Vienne or explore all of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
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