Retenue du Tessonne is a compact 22-hectare reservoir in south-west France offering solid mixed coarse fishing, with carp, catfish, and tench alongside pike and bream—ideal if you're exploring beyond the classic northern venues. Day fishing only and bank access keeps things straightforward, though the 490-mile distance from Calais means this works best as part of a longer Occitanie trip rather than a quick dash. You'll need a valid fishing licence and AAPPMA membership (contact FDAAPPMA 82) to fish here.
Night fishing at Retenue du Tessonne is not permitted. Night carp not confirmed on this lake. Tarn-et-Garonne's designated night carp sites include specific river sections (Garonne, Tarn, Canal de Montech) and a small number of designated plans d'eau. Check pechetarnetgaronne.fr/trouver-mon-site-de-peche/ for the full list. Source: pechetarnetgaronne.fr Anglers must leave the bank before dark.
Bivouac & overnight camping is permitted at Retenue du Tessonne under standard French fishing law — one rod, within 10m of the water, no open fires.
Required permits & cards: Tarn-et-Garonne card (CHI).
Managed by FDAAPPMA 82 / Fédération Pêche Tarn-et-Garonne. Always verify current rules with the AAPPMA before your session — regulations can change seasonally.
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Retenue du Tessonne holds carp, catfish, pike, perch, 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 du Tessonne — you will also need to be affiliated with FDAAPPMA 82 / Fédération Pêche Tarn-et-Garonne. 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 82 / Fédération Pêche Tarn-et-Garonne) before fishing. French fishing regulations can change seasonally.
To fish Retenue du Tessonne, you need a valid Carte de Pêche (French fishing licence), available online at cartedepeche.fr before you leave the UK — affiliation with FDAAPPMA 82 / Fédération Pêche Tarn-et-Garonne is included in the purchase process. Annual, weekly and daily licences are all available online.
Tarn-et-Garonne is home to numerous public fishing venues. Browse all venues in Tarn-et-Garonne or explore all of Occitanie.
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