Étang du Fay is a modest 11-hectare reservoir in the Drôme offering solid carp and tench fishing from the bank, making it ideal for anglers seeking a quieter alternative to busier French venues. Located near Hauterives, roughly 413 miles from Calais, it's day-fishing only (no night sessions), so plan accordingly if you're combining multiple waters on your trip. You'll need an AAPPMA day permit from the local Drôme federation (FD 26) to fish here.
Night fishing at Étang du Fay is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Drôme requires specific prefectoral authorisation. The Rhône river is fully authorised. Additional lake sections may be listed in the annual arrêté. Check drome.federationpeche.fr/5064-parcours-carpe-de-nuit.htm for the full list. Source: drome.federationpeche.fr
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Étang du Fay under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by FD 26 (Fédération de Pêche de la Drôme). Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Étang du Fay 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 Fay — you will also need to be affiliated with FD 26 (Fédération de Pêche de la Drôme). 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 26 (Fédération de Pêche de la Drôme)) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Étang du Fay, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FD 26 (Fédération de Pêche de la Drôme) is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Drôme is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Drôme or explore all of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
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