Set in the Ain department of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Lac de Virieu is a intimate natural lake of 8 hectares that offers accessible public fishing. Species include Carp, Pike, Perch and Tench — with carp fishing the primary attraction for travelling anglers.
Night fishing is not permitted at Lac de Virieu, so plan accordingly. Regarding boats: Bank fishing only. Overnight bivouac camping is authorised, ideal for multi-day carp sessions.
At 394 miles from Calais, Lac de Virieu requires a longer journey from the UK, but Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes — one of France's most varied fishing regions, with venues ranging from Alpine lakes to lowland reservoirs — rewards the trip.
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Lac de Virieu holds carp, pike, perch, tench. Carp fishing is the primary draw for visiting UK anglers, with fish present throughout the venue.
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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 Nantua) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
Ain is home to numerous fishing venues accessible to UK anglers. PiscaMaps covers lakes, reservoirs, rivers and canals across all Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes departments, with full rules, species and access information for each venue.
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