Marais de Viocet is a scenic 44-hectare gravel pit in the Rhône region offering solid opportunities for carp alongside catfish, pike and tench in a protected wetland setting. Bank fishing only and strictly daylight hours keep the venue quiet and peaceful, making it ideal if you're seeking a more relaxed pace than high-pressure French lakes. Located 360 miles from Calais in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, it's a rewarding detour for those exploring south-central France.
Practical note: You'll need to fish via the local AAPPMA de Villars-les-Dombes — check their permit requirements before your trip, as access may be restricted to members.
Night fishing at Marais de Viocet is not permitted. Night carp NOT authorised on this lake. The Rhône federation (peche69.fr) explicitly states: 'la pêche de nuit est interdite sur la totalité des lacs et étangs public du département du Rhône'. Only the Rhône and Saône rivers are authorised for night carp. Source: peche69.fr/1646-peche-de-la-carpe-de-nuit.htm Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Boat fishing: Boat access is restricted at Marais de Viocet. Wetland marsh — restricted access.
Bivouac & overnight camping is not permitted at Marais de Viocet.
Required permits & cards: Verify local access rules.
Managed by AAPPMA de Villars-les-Dombes. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Marais de Viocet holds carp, catfish, 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 Marais de Viocet — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA de Villars-les-Dombes. 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 (AAPPMA de Villars-les-Dombes) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Marais de Viocet, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA de Villars-les-Dombes is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Marais de Viocet is 360 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Rhône is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Rhône or explore all of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
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