Le Grand Étang, Mayenne
This 35-hectare reservoir in the Pays de la Loire offers solid mixed fishing for carp, pike, tench and bream from the bank, making it an accessible option for UK anglers seeking quieter water away from the crowds. Day-fishing only, so plan your sessions accordingly—roughly 3.5 hours from Calais, it suits anglers combining multiple venues on a trip. You'll need a valid French fishing licence and AAPPMA permit (contact Fédération Pêche Mayenne 53).
Night fishing at le Grand Étang is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Mayenne is authorised on about 10 designated night carp parcours, mainly on the Mayenne river and specific plans d'eau. Check the interactive map at fedepeche53.com for the current list. Source: fedepeche53.com
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at le Grand Étang under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Mayenne departmental card (EHGO).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 53 / Fédération Pêche Mayenne. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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le Grand Étang holds carp, pike, perch, zander, tench, bream. 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 le Grand Étang — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 53 / Fédération Pêche Mayenne. 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 53 / Fédération Pêche Mayenne) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish le Grand Étang, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 53 / Fédération Pêche Mayenne is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. le Grand Étang is 209 miles from Calais, around 4 hours from the ferry or tunnel.
Mayenne is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Mayenne or explore all of Pays de la Loire.
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