Grand Étang d'Urfé is a compact 11.6-hectare reservoir in the Loire region (370 miles south of Calais) offering bank fishing for trout, pike and perch in a scenic upland setting—though it's worth noting this is a first-category water, so it's primarily a trout venue rather than a carp destination. Night fishing isn't permitted due to its sensitive ecological status, making it better suited to daytime sessions. You'll need an AAPPMA day permit from FD 42 (Fédération de Pêche de la Loire) and must fish from the bank only.
Grand Étang d'Urfé is 370 miles from Calais. For UK anglers willing to make the drive into Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes — one of France's most varied fishing regions, with venues ranging from Alpine lakes to lowland reservoirs — the fishing is well worth it.
Night fishing at Grand Étang d'Urfé 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 Grand Étang d'Urfé 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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Grand Étang d'Urfé holds brown trout, rainbow trout, perch, pike. Pike fishing is a highlight of the venue — spinning, deadbaiting and lure fishing are all effective methods.
A valid Carte de Pêche is required to fish Grand Étang d'Urfé — 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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1st Category (Salmonid) water. Trout season: 14 Mar–20 Sep 2026. No night fishing permitted. Carp/coarse: all year.
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 Grand Étang d'Urfé, 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. Grand Étang d'Urfé is 370 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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