Petit Étang des Mottes is an intimate 2.65-hectare natural lake in the Vosges offering day-fishing only for pike, perch and tench from the banks—ideal if you're seeking a quieter, more personal French water away from the crowds. Located 288 miles from Calais, this is a serious trek east, but worth it for anglers wanting something different from the mainstream carp lakes. You'll need an AAPPMA licence from the local Vosges federation to fish legally.
Night fishing at Petit Étang des Mottes is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this lake. Vosges night carp is only permitted on: Lac de Bouzey (specific section), Étang fédéral n°2 de Châtel-sur-Moselle (350m), and river sections of the Moselle and Madon. Source: peche88.fr/reglementation-de-la-peche-nocturne-de-la-carpe-vosges/ Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Petit Étang des Mottes under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by AAPPMA locale Vosges. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
Filter by species, size, night fishing, boats and bivvy. Find venues near Vosges and across all of France.
Petit Étang des Mottes 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 Petit Étang des Mottes — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA locale Vosges. Licences are available online before your trip.
Join to unlock full rules, night sectors, access notes and local camping spots for Petit Étang des Mottes and 10,000+ venues across France, Belgium and the Netherlands.
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 locale Vosges) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Petit Étang des Mottes, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA locale Vosges is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Petit Étang des Mottes is 288 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Vosges is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Vosges or explore all of Grand Est.
Other public fishing venues near Petit Étang des Mottes on PiscaMaps: