Étang du Petit Chaussey is a compact 10-hectare reservoir in the Dombes region of eastern France, holding carp, pike, perch and tench — perfect for a focused day-session trip away from the crowds. Bank fishing only on this intimate venue means you'll need to pick your swims carefully, but the smaller size works in your favour for reading the water and locating fish. Day fishing only, so plan your sessions accordingly; at 373 miles from Calais, it's a worthwhile drive for those exploring the Dombes plateau circuit. You'll need a valid French fishing licence and membership with the local AAPPMA Villars-les-Dombes to fish here.
Night fishing at Étang du Petit Chaussey is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this lake. Ain's 2026 arrêté only covers specific designated venues (Lac de Barterand, Étangs du Comte, de la Rica, Plan d'eau de Glandieu, La Malourdie casiers 3/4/10, Plan d'eau de Cormoranche, plus Ain/Rhône/Saône river sections). Source: federation-peche-ain.com/parcours-carpes-de-nuit/ Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Étang du Petit Chaussey 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 Petit Chaussey 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 Petit Chaussey — 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 Petit Chaussey, 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. Étang du Petit Chaussey is 373 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
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