Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 146 acres (59 ha) Reservoir No night fishing Bivvy permitted 491mi from Calais
About Fishing at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans
Retenue de la Saulce (Curbans)
This 59-hectare alpine reservoir in Provence offers solid carp and zander fishing in a stunning mountain setting, though at 491 miles from Calais it's a serious southern destination. Day-fishing only (no night sessions due to its role as a compensation basin), and boat access is prohibited due to dangerous currents—expect fishing from the bank. You'll need an AAPPMA day ticket from the local federation (FDAAPPMA 04) to fish here legally.
Department
Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
Region
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Water Type
Reservoir
Size
146 acres (59 ha)
Night Fishing
Not permitted
Boats
Unknown
From Calais
491 miles
Managed by
AAPPMA Verdon Colostre / FDAAPPMA 04
Fishing Rules & Regulations — Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans
Night fishing at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this lake. Only 4 specific plans d'eau in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence have night carp authorisation: Lac de la Forestière (Manosque), Lacs des Buissonnades Est/Sud (Oraison), Lac du Brunet, Retenue de Castillon (specific bank sections). All are weekend-only, April–December. Source: AP n°2025-029-006 — peche04.fr Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Fish Species at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans
Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans holds carp, pike, perch, zander, tench, bream, 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 Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA Verdon Colostre / FDAAPPMA 04. Licences are available online before your trip.
Full details available to PiscaMaps members
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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 Verdon Colostre / FDAAPPMA 04) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans?+
Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans covers 146 acres (59 ha) in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France. It is a public reservoir managed under the French AAPPMA system.
What fish can I catch at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans?+
The water holds Carp, Pike, Perch, Zander, Tench, Bream, Black Bass. Carp are the primary target for most visiting UK anglers. All carp must be handled with care and returned.
Is night fishing allowed at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans?+
Night fishing at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans is not permitted. Night carp not authorised on this lake. Only 4 specific plans d'eau in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence have night carp authorisation: Lac de la Forestière (Manosque), Lacs des Buissonnades Est/Sud (Oraison), Lac du Brunet, Retenue de Castillon (specific bank sections). All are weekend-only, April–December. Source: AP n°2025-029-006 — peche04.fr Plan your trip as a day session and leave the bank before dark.
Are bivvies allowed at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans?+
Bivvy camping is permitted at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans under standard French bivouac law — one rod, within 10 metres of the water, no open fires. Always confirm current rules with the local AAPPMA before fishing. Standard rules apply.
Are boats allowed at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans?+
Boat use is restricted at Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans. No specific rules found.
How far is Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans from Calais?+
Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans is approximately 491 miles from Calais by road. Allow a full travel day from Calais.
Do I need a French fishing licence to fish Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans?+
Yes — all anglers fishing in France require a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available from cartedepeche.fr. You must also be affiliated with the local AAPPMA (AAPPMA Verdon Colostre / FDAAPPMA 04). Annual, weekly and daily licences are available online before your trip.
Planning a Trip to Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans
To fish Retenue de la Saulce ou de Curbans, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA Verdon Colostre / FDAAPPMA 04 is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
