Lac de Barou is an intimate 5-hectare natural lake in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques offering solid carp, pike, perch and tench fishing in a peaceful Pyrenean setting—ideal if you're seeking something quieter than the heavily-fished northern French lakes. Day fishing only, so plan accordingly, and bank access is straightforward with no boat traffic to contend with. You'll need an AAPPMA day ticket from the local association (FDAAPPMA 64); the remote location (535 miles from Calais) makes it perfect for a dedicated southern France trip combining multiple venues.
Night fishing at Lac de Barou is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this mountain lake. Pyrénées-Atlantiques mountain lakes (>1000m altitude) are classified as 1st category waters where night carp is not permitted. Source: federation-peche64.fr/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/fd64_mememto_2025.pdf Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Lac de Barou under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Pyrénées-Atlantiques card (CHI).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 64 / AAPPMA locale. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Lac de Barou 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 de Barou — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 64 / AAPPMA locale. 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 (FDAAPPMA 64 / AAPPMA locale) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Lac de Barou, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 64 / AAPPMA locale is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Pyrénées-Atlantiques is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Pyrénées-Atlantiques or explore all of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
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