This intimate 8-hectare natural lake in Ain offers peaceful day-only carp fishing in a protected setting, roughly 354 miles south of Calais near Nantua. The mix of carp, pike, perch and tench provides good sport, though the no-boats rule and day-fishing-only restriction make it best suited to bank anglers seeking a quieter, more naturalistic experience than larger commercials. You'll need a French fishing licence and membership with AAPPMA de Nantua to fish here.
At 354 miles from Calais, Lac d'Onoz requires a longer journey from the UK, but Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes — one of France's most varied fishing regions, with venues ranging from Alpine lakes to lowland reservoirs — rewards the trip.
Night fishing at Lac d'Onoz 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 Lac d'Onoz 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 de Nantua. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Lac d'Onoz 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 Lac d'Onoz — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA de Nantua. 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 de Nantua) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Lac d'Onoz, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA de Nantua is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Lac d'Onoz is 354 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Ain is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Ain or explore all of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
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