Lac d'Hourtin is a sprawling 3,321-hectare natural lake offering excellent variety with carp, catfish, pike and bream across vast open water—perfect for UK anglers seeking something different from smaller French commercials. Night fishing is permitted in designated zones like Piqueyrot, and boats are allowed, giving you flexibility to explore this Nouvelle-Aquitaine gem located 423 miles south of Calais. You'll need an AAPPMA licence from the local Sandre Hourtinais federation to fish here legally.
Lac d'Hourtin is 423 miles from Calais. For UK anglers willing to make the drive into Nouvelle-Aquitaine — a vast region stretching from the Dordogne to the Basque Country, with outstanding fishing across its many departments — the fishing is well worth it.
Night fishing at Lac d'Hourtin is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Charente-Maritime requires specific prefectoral authorisation. Check peche17.fr for the current list before fishing at night. Source: peche17.fr
Boat fishing: Boats are permitted at Lac d'Hourtin.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Lac d'Hourtin under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by AAPPMA Sandre Hourtinais / FDAAPPMA 17. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Lac d'Hourtin holds carp, catfish, pike, perch, zander, bream, black bass. Carp are the primary draw for visiting UK anglers — fish to 15kg have been recorded. All carp should be handled with care and returned promptly. A landing mat and unhooking mat are essential kit for any carp session.
Carp present; avg ~10kg (local reports)
A valid Carte de Pêche is required to fish Lac d'Hourtin — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA Sandre Hourtinais / FDAAPPMA 17. 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 Sandre Hourtinais / FDAAPPMA 17) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Lac d'Hourtin, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA Sandre Hourtinais / FDAAPPMA 17 is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Charente-Maritime is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Charente-Maritime or explore all of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
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