Retenue de Couzon is a compact 14.5-hectare reservoir near Lyon offering decent carp and tench fishing in a peaceful Rhône-Alpes setting, accessible exclusively from the bank for a more intimate angling experience. Night fishing is prohibited due to drinking water protection status, so plan daytime sessions—expect a scenic 400-mile trip from Calais. You'll need a French fishing licence and AAPPMA day card from FD 69 before casting; contact the local federation to confirm current access and seasonal availability.
Night fishing at Retenue de Couzon 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.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Retenue de Couzon under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by FD 69 (Fédération de Pêche du Rhône). Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Retenue de Couzon holds carp, pike, perch, tench. 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 Retenue de Couzon — you will also need to be affiliated with FD 69 (Fédération de Pêche du Rhône). 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 (FD 69 (Fédération de Pêche du Rhône)) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Retenue de Couzon, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FD 69 (Fédération de Pêche du Rhône) is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Retenue de Couzon is 398 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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