Lac de la Selves is a substantial 108-hectare reservoir in the Auvergne highlands offering excellent mixed fishing with solid populations of carp and catfish alongside pike, zander and tench. Night fishing is permitted in designated zones, giving you flexibility for extended sessions, and boats (electric or petrol up to 6hp) are allowed if you fancy exploring deeper water. At 436 miles from Calais, it's a serious road trip, but the relatively quiet venue and diverse species make it worth the journey—grab your AAPPMA de Riom-ès-Montagnes licence before you fish.
Night fishing at Lac de la Selves is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this lake. Cantal's mountain/river waters are predominantly 1st category. Source: auvergne-peche.fr Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Boat fishing: Boats are permitted at Lac de la Selves. Allowed. Electric or petrol motors (max 6hp recommended in some zones)
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Lac de la Selves under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by AAPPMA de Riom-ès-Montagnes. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Lac de la Selves holds carp, catfish, pike, perch, zander, tench, bream. 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 la Selves — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA de Riom-ès-Montagnes. 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 Riom-ès-Montagnes) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Lac de la Selves, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA de Riom-ès-Montagnes is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Cantal is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Cantal or explore all of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
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