Fishing in France: Where to Go and What to Catch

France is a country that offers some exquisite fishing opportunities. Whether you’re an amateur angler just starting out or a seasoned professional, France has something to offer for everyone. With its many rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, you’ll find a variety of fish species and a wide range of angling experiences. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best places to go fishing in France, as well as the types of fish you can catch. Read on to learn more!

The Best Fishing Spots in France

When it comes to fishing in France, there are plenty of spots to choose from. Here are some of the best:

• The River Seine: The Seine is a popular fishing spot in France. It’s a large river that runs through Paris and is teeming with fish. Some of the most common species you’ll find in the Seine include carp, pike, perch, roach, and eels.
• The River Rhone: The Rhone is another river that’s popular among anglers. It’s situated in central France and is home to many different species of fish, such as carp, pike, perch, roach, and eels.
• The Loire River: The Loire is France’s longest river and is also a great spot for fishing. You’ll find a variety of species here, including carp, pike, zander, and perch.
• The Mediterranean Sea: The Mediterranean Sea is one of the most popular places to fish in France. There are many species to be found here, including bass, mackerel, tuna, and sea bream.

What to Consider Before You Go Fishing in France

When you’re planning a fishing trip to France, there are a few things to consider before you go. First, you’ll want to make sure you have the necessary permits and licenses. In France, you’ll need a “Carte de Pêche” or “License de Pêche” to fish in any public body of water. You can purchase these permits from most sporting goods stores or online. Additionally, you’ll want to research the local fishing regulations as they can vary depending on the body of water you’re fishing in.

You’ll also want to make sure you have the right tackle and gear. Depending on the type of fish you’re targeting, you’ll need different lures, rods, reels, and other accessories. Lastly, make sure you know the best times to fish in the area you’re visiting. Different species feed at different times of the day, so you’ll want to make sure you’re fishing when the fish are most active.

The Best Types of Fish to Catch in France

France is home to many different species of fish, so you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to what to target. Here are some of the most popular species you’ll find in French waters:

• Carp: Carp is one of the most popular fish in France and is found in many rivers and lakes. Carp can grow to be quite large and are known for their fighting spirit when hooked.
• Pike: Pike are another popular species in France and can be found in many rivers and lakes. They’re known for being aggressive predators and can put up quite a fight when hooked.
• Zander: Zander is a species of freshwater fish found in France’s rivers and lakes. They’re known for being strong fighters and can grow to be quite large.
• Sea Bream: Sea bream is a species of saltwater fish found in the Mediterranean Sea. They’re known for their delicious flavor and can be found in abundance in the Mediterranean.

Tips for Fishing in France

Fishing in France can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your fishing trip:

• Be aware of the weather: The weather can have a major impact on your fishing trip, so it’s important to be aware of the forecast. If it’s windy or raining, you may want to postpone your trip.
• Know the local regulations: Make sure you’re aware of the local fishing regulations before you go. This will help you avoid any fines or other penalties.
• Use the right tackle: Different species of fish require different types of tackle, so make sure you have the right gear for the fish you’re targeting.
• Be respectful of the environment: When fishing in France, it’s important to be respectful of the environment. This includes not leaving any trash behind and following all local regulations.

The Best Times to Fish in France

The best times to fish in France vary depending on the species and the body of water you’re fishing in. In general, the best times to fish in France are during the spring and summer months, when the water is warmest and the fish are most active. Additionally, the best times of day to fish are early morning and late afternoon, when the sun is not at its peak and the fish are more likely to be feeding.

The Best Fishing Gear for France

When fishing in France, it’s important to have the right gear. Depending on the species you’re targeting, you’ll need different lures, rods, reels, and other accessories. In general, you’ll want to have a mix of spinning and casting rods, as well as a variety of lures and baits. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure you have a net and a pair of waders if you’re fishing in a river or stream.

Fishing Tours in France

If you’re looking for a more guided experience, there are many fishing tours available in France. These tours are a great way to get the most out of your fishing trip, as they take care of everything from permits and licenses to gear and lodging. Additionally, many of these tours offer additional services, such as fly-fishing lessons and boat rentals.

What to Eat After Fishing in France

After a day of fishing, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. In France, the most popular way to enjoy freshly caught fish is through the classic dish of “poisson frit”, which is fried fish served with a variety of sides. Additionally, if you’re looking for something more unique, you can also try the classic French dish of “truite aux amandes”, which is trout served with almonds and herbs.

Conclusion

France is an excellent destination for anglers of all skill levels. With its many rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, you’ll find a variety of fish species and a wide range of angling experiences. In this blog post, we explored some of the best places to go fishing in France, as well as the types of fish you can catch. We also discussed what to consider before you go fishing in France, the best types of fish to catch, tips for fishing in France, the best times to fish, the best fishing gear, and what to eat after fishing. So, if you’re planning a fishing trip to France, now you know where to go and what to catch!