Lac de Tracens is an intimate natural lake in the Hautes-Pyrénées offering bank fishing only in a spectacular mountain setting—perfect if you're seeking a quieter alternative to busier French waters. Pike and tench are the main draws here, though note that night fishing is not permitted and the lake sits 564 miles south of Calais, making it a serious expedition rather than a quick cross-Channel trip. You'll need a valid French fishing licence and membership with the local FDAAPPMA 65 to fish here.
At 564 miles from Calais, Lac de Tracens requires a longer journey from the UK, but Occitanie — a region of warm summers and excellent coarse fishing, particularly for carp and catfish — rewards the trip.
Night fishing at Lac de Tracens is not permitted. Night carp fishing in Hautes-Pyrénées is only permitted on specific named venues per prefectoral order. This lake is not on the authorised list — night carp fishing is prohibited here. See peche65.fr for the full list. Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Lac de Tracens under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Hautes-Pyrénées card (CHI).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 65 / Fédération Pêche Hautes-Pyrénées. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Lac de Tracens holds pike, perch, tench. Pike fishing is a highlight of the venue — spinning, deadbaiting and lure fishing are all effective methods.
A valid Carte de Pêche is required to fish Lac de Tracens — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 65 / Fédération Pêche Hautes-Pyrénées. 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 65 / Fédération Pêche Hautes-Pyrénées) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Lac de Tracens, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 65 / Fédération Pêche Hautes-Pyrénées is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Hautes-Pyrénées is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Hautes-Pyrénées or explore all of Occitanie.
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