Étang du Chemin is an intimate 6.4-hectare natural lake near Villars-les-Dombes offering quality carp and tench fishing in a peaceful setting, roughly 345 miles south-east of Calais. Bank fishing only means you'll work the margins and deeper zones methodically—ideal for reading water and targeting established features. Day fishing only, so plan your sessions accordingly and contact the local AAPPMA Villars-les-Dombes for a permit before you visit.
At 558 miles from Calais, Étang du Chemin requires a longer journey from the UK, but Bourgogne-Franche-Comté — a region renowned among UK carp anglers for its quality stillwater fishing — rewards the trip.
Night fishing at Étang du Chemin is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this lake. Saône-et-Loire's 2026 arrêté only covers specifically designated sites — this lake is not among them. Source: peche-saone-et-loire.fr/peche-pratique/carpe-de-nuit/ Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Étang du Chemin under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Ain card or CHI/EHGO/URNE.
Managed by AAPPMA Villars-les-Dombes. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Étang du Chemin 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 du Chemin — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA Villars-les-Dombes. 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 Villars-les-Dombes) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Étang du Chemin, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA Villars-les-Dombes is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Saône-et-Loire is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Saône-et-Loire or explore all of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté.
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