Plan d'Eau du Riou is a modest 13.58-hectare alpine reservoir in Provence offering bank-only carp fishing in a stunning mountain setting, though it operates under strict no-kill regulations and 2nd category rules that limit your approach. Located 490 miles from Calais, it's a destination for those seeking scenic, technical fishing rather than high-volume catches. You'll need a valid fishing licence and permission from FDAAPPMA 04; night fishing is not permitted, so plan day sessions only.
Night fishing at Plan d'Eau du Riou is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this mountain/alpine lake. Only 4 specific lowland plans d'eau in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence have night carp authorisation (Lac de la Forestière, Buissonnades Est/Sud, Lac du Brunet, Retenue de Castillon). Source: AP n°2025-029-006 — peche04.fr Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Plan d'Eau du Riou under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Hautes-Alpes card (non-reciprocal). Night carp per AP.
Managed by FDAAPPMA 04 / Fédération Pêche Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Plan d'Eau du Riou holds carp, pike, perch, tench, black bass. 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 Plan d'Eau du Riou — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 04 / Fédération Pêche Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. 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 04 / Fédération Pêche Alpes-de-Haute-Provence) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Plan d'Eau du Riou, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 04 / Fédération Pêche Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence or explore all of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.
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