Retenue de Rochereau is a substantial 114-hectare reservoir in Vendée offering solid mixed coarse fishing with carp, pike, zander and bream in a scenic, uncrowded setting 320 miles south of Calais. Night fishing is permitted in designated federal zones, and electric motors only keep the water peaceful for anglers—ideal if you're seeking a more relaxed pace than busier French venues. You'll need an AAPPMA day ticket or membership; contact the local AAPPMA Rochereau or FDAAPPMA 85 (Vendée federation) before your trip to confirm access and zone restrictions.
Retenue de Rochereau is 320 miles from Calais. For UK anglers willing to make the drive into Pays de la Loire — a region with diverse fishing including carp lakes, river pike and coastal species — the fishing is well worth it.
Night fishing at Retenue de Rochereau is permitted but with restrictions. Night carp in Vendée is authorised on specifically balisaged postes. Two types: 'Permanent' (year-round) and 'Seasonal' (from 1 September). All big Vendée reservoirs are water supply lakes — strict fishing rules apply. Check the interactive map at federation-peche-vendee.fr/quelles-especes/carpe/ before fishing at night. Leave no trace. Only fishers with a valid permit are allowed at overnight posts. Source: federation-peche-vendee.fr/quelles-especes/carpe/
Boat fishing: Boats are permitted at Retenue de Rochereau. Barrage lake — boats permitted.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Retenue de Rochereau under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Vendée departmental card (EHGO).
Managed by AAPPMA Rochereau / FDAAPPMA 85. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Retenue de Rochereau holds carp, pike, perch, zander, tench, bream. Carp are the primary draw for visiting UK anglers — fish to 14kg have been recorded. All carp should be handled with care and returned promptly. A landing mat and unhooking mat are essential kit for any carp session.
Carp to 14kg+
A valid Carte de Pêche is required to fish Retenue de Rochereau — you will also need to be affiliated with AAPPMA Rochereau / FDAAPPMA 85. 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 (AAPPMA Rochereau / FDAAPPMA 85) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Retenue de Rochereau, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with AAPPMA Rochereau / FDAAPPMA 85 is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online. Retenue de Rochereau is 320 miles from Calais — plan for a full travel day from Calais.
Vendée is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Vendée or explore all of Pays de la Loire.
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