Gros Étang is a compact 14-hectare reservoir in the Vosges foothills offering solid carp and tench fishing in a peaceful, intimate setting — perfect if you want to escape crowded venues. Bank-only access and daylight-only rules (2nd Category water) mean you'll need to plan daylight sessions, but the mixed species potential keeps things interesting. Around 5.5 hours from Calais, it's a worthwhile detour for anglers exploring the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. You'll need an AAPPMA permit from the local Giromagny association before fishing.
Night fishing at Gros Étang is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Territoire de Belfort requires specific arrêté authorisation. Check fd-peche-belfort.fr for current list. Source: fd-peche-belfort.fr
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Gros Étang under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Territoire de Belfort departmental card (URNE/CHI).
Managed by AAPPMA Giromagny / secteur Vosges du Sud. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Gros Étang 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 Gros Étang — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA Giromagny / secteur Vosges du Sud. 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 Giromagny / secteur Vosges du Sud) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Gros Étang, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA Giromagny / secteur Vosges du Sud is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Gros Étang is 332 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Territoire de Belfort is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Territoire de Belfort or explore all of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté.
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