Retenue de Rastoul is a compact 11.6-hectare reservoir in Lot-et-Garonne offering solid carp prospects alongside pike and tench in a peaceful, less-pressured setting—ideal if you're seeking something quieter than the famous French lakes. Day fishing only from the bank means you'll need to plan shorter sessions, but the intimate scale makes it highly fishable for a long weekend trip around 459 miles south of Calais. You'll need a French fishing licence and membership with FDAAPPMA 47 or the local AAPPMA to fish here.
At 459 miles from Calais, Retenue de Rastoul requires a longer journey from the UK, but Nouvelle-Aquitaine — a vast region stretching from the Dordogne to the Basque Country, with outstanding fishing across its many departments — rewards the trip.
Night fishing at Retenue de Rastoul is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Lot-et-Garonne requires specific authorisation on designated parcours. The Lot at Aiguillon and specific lake sections are known venues. Check peche47.fr for the current list before fishing at night. Source: peche47.fr
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Retenue de Rastoul under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Lot-et-Garonne card (CHI).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 47 / AAPPMA locale. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Retenue de Rastoul 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 Retenue de Rastoul — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 47 / AAPPMA locale. 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 47 / AAPPMA locale) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Retenue de Rastoul, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 47 / AAPPMA locale is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Lot-et-Garonne is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Lot-et-Garonne or explore all of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
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