Lac de Saint-Mathieu is a compact 14-hectare reservoir in Charente offering solid carp and tench prospects in a peaceful, lesser-known setting around 365 miles south of Calais. Day fishing only (2nd Category water) means early starts, but you'll enjoy uncrowded banking and the chance to explore a venue that sees fewer UK visitors than the famous northern lakes. You'll need a valid French fishing licence and membership with the local AAPPMA — contact FDAAPPMA 16 for permits before your trip.
Lac de Saint-Mathieu is 365 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 de Saint-Mathieu is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Charente requires specific prefectoral authorisation on designated parcours. Check peche16.fr for the current list before fishing at night. Source: peche16.fr
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Lac de Saint-Mathieu under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by FDAAPPMA 16 / AAPPMA locale. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Lac de Saint-Mathieu holds carp, pike, perch, tench, black bass. 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 Saint-Mathieu — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 16 / 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 16 / AAPPMA locale) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Lac de Saint-Mathieu, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 16 / AAPPMA locale is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Lac de Saint-Mathieu is 365 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Charente is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Charente or explore all of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
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