Lac de Sèchemaille is a peaceful 43-hectare reservoir in central France offering solid populations of carp, catfish and tench in a scenic Corrèze setting—ideal if you prefer quieter, less-pressured water away from the northern circuit. Day fishing only from the bank means you'll need to plan sessions carefully on this smaller venue, though the mixed coarse and predator stock keeps things interesting. Note: You'll need an AAPPMA permit from the local federation (FDAAPPMA 19) before fishing.
At 375 miles from Calais, Lac de Sèchemaille requires a longer journey from the UK, but Nouvelle-Aquitaine — a vast region stretching from the Dordogne to the Basque Country, with outstanding fishing across its many departments — rewards the trip.
Night fishing at Lac de Sèchemaille is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this lake. Corrèze's 13 designated night carp venues (2nd Sat March–31 Dec) are specific named reservoirs — this lake is not among them. Source: peche19.fr/ou-pecher/les-parcours-specifiques/les-parcours-carpe-de-nuit/ Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Boat fishing: Boats are permitted at Lac de Sèchemaille. Boats permitted. Trolling forbidden.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Lac de Sèchemaille under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Corrèze departmental card (CHI).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 19 / AAPPMA locale. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Lac de Sèchemaille holds carp, catfish, pike, perch, zander, tench, bream, 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 Sèchemaille — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 19 / 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 19 / AAPPMA locale) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Lac de Sèchemaille, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 19 / AAPPMA locale is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Lac de Sèchemaille is 375 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Corrèze is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Corrèze or explore all of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
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