Lac François Soula is an intimate 3.8-hectare natural lake in the Pyrenean foothills offering pike, perch and tench in a peaceful setting—ideal if you're seeking a quieter alternative to busier French waters. Day fishing only from the bank means early starts, but the scenic Haute-Garonne location rewards patient anglers with a genuine French lakeside experience far from the tourist trail. You'll need a fishing licence and AAPPMA permit from Fédération Pêche Haute-Garonne (FDAAPPMA 31) to fish here.
At 511 miles from Calais, Lac François Soula 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 François Soula is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Haute-Garonne requires specific prefectoral authorisation. The department has a mix of lowland retenues (mainly near Toulouse) where night carp is authorised and Pyrenean waters where it is prohibited. Check the 2026 guide at fede-peche31.com/5969-guide-de-peche-annuel-du-31.htm for the full list. Source: fede-peche31.com
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Lac François Soula under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by FDAAPPMA 31 / Fédération Pêche Haute-Garonne. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Lac François Soula 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 François Soula — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 31 / Fédération Pêche Haute-Garonne. 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 31 / Fédération Pêche Haute-Garonne) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Lac François Soula, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 31 / Fédération Pêche Haute-Garonne is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Haute-Garonne is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Haute-Garonne or explore all of Occitanie.
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