Retenue de Saint-Martial is a compact 13-hectare reservoir in the Auvergne highlands offering carp alongside pike, perch and tench in a peaceful setting roughly 435 miles south of Calais. Day-fishing only (no night sessions), but electric boats and pedal boats are permitted, giving you flexibility to explore the water. You'll need an AAPPMA day ticket from FD 43 (Haute-Loire federation) to fish legally.
At 435 miles from Calais, Retenue de Saint-Martial requires a longer journey from the UK, but Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes — one of France's most varied fishing regions, with venues ranging from Alpine lakes to lowland reservoirs — rewards the trip.
Night fishing at Retenue de Saint-Martial is not permitted. Night carp is generally not authorised in Haute-Loire. The department is dominated by salmonid and volcanic mountain waters. Verify with peche-hauteloire.fr for any specific 2nd category exceptions. Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Retenue de Saint-Martial under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Managed by FD 43 (Fédération de Pêche de Haute-Loire). Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Retenue de Saint-Martial 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 Saint-Martial — you will also need to be affiliated with FD 43 (Fédération de Pêche de Haute-Loire). 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 43 (Fédération de Pêche de Haute-Loire)) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Retenue de Saint-Martial, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FD 43 (Fédération de Pêche de Haute-Loire) is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Haute-Loire is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Haute-Loire or explore all of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
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