France is an exceptional destination for getting out the fishing rod and having fun being at the water’s edge. If some are fans of fishing in the open sea or even in the oceans, others prefer to join the edge of a river or even a lake , for a good game of freshwater fishing. Fishing is also a great opportunity to discover new regions, their landscapes and their specificities in the area. The strong point of the Hexagon is to have peaceful fishing spots in each region of France, and advice to amateurs: here are some of the prettiest for future getaways.
Freshwater fishing: what are the prettiest corners of France?
French freshwater fishermen are spoiled for choice when it comes to their favorite activity. Fishing is the pleasure of joining a lake or a river near your home on weekends, but also the opportunity to join other territories to discover new landscapes and fish for other species . Before looking at quality equipment, like that of the Fox Rage brand , which you need to take with you, let’s take a look at the essential spots to enjoy an exhilarating moment of fishing.
Head first to the Hérault department, which is full of splendid rivers with pure and translucent waters. To fish for trout, you can go to La Vis, for example . The banks of the river offer pleasant, peaceful observation points. Fishing with cork, fly, spoon or even toc, the main thing to fish for trout is to remain silent and discreet, because it is much smarter than you think. During this time, we can marvel at the green landscapes that surround us.
If Brittany often evokes the sea, you should know that the region is also a place of choice for lovers of freshwater fishing. Let us first mention the lake of Saint-Michel, in Finistère . This artificial lake of 450 hectares takes place in the heart of the Monts d’Arrée national park, and in addition to being able to fish for salmon, we can delight in the incredible panorama of peat bogs and moors. In another Breton department, Morbihan, the Vilaine is suitable for varied fishing since there are both trout and predator fish, but also chard and roach.
Another setting, that of Swiss Normandy and the green landscapes that surround Lake Rabodanges. Here, we sit quietly at the edge of the water, but fishing can also be practiced from a boat. Pike, perch and pike perch populate the lake in numbers , so the place is a delight for lovers of predators.
On a completely different note, there is something special about fishing in mountain lakes. How can you resist the beauty of the superb panoramas while you wait for it to bite the hook? An idea of a getaway for mountain lovers: the Ossau valley and its lakes . At an altitude of between 1,845 m and 2,082 m, it is possible to reach six bodies of water bearing the names of Roumassot, Paradis, Castérau, Gentau, Miey and Bersau. The ideal is to hike to reach it. Then, enjoy fishing with the presence of brown trout, minnows, brook salmon and some common char, all in an enchanting setting.
Finally, to experience thrills while fishing in fresh water, it is strongly recommended to go and face catfish in the Tarn ! In the surroundings of Albi, it is easy to find a place by the river to experience sport fishing. Indeed, you should know that the catfish can measure up to 2.80 m and reach the weight of 120 kg! Impressive.
How to properly equip yourself to go fishing in freshwater?
As with most outdoor activities, it is essential to be well equipped to fish in good conditions . Of course, the equipment will depend on the type of fishing practiced and the fish targeted.
For coarse fishing, it is necessary to equip yourself with a telescopic rod with nylon line, plug, leader, sinker and hook. This fishing rod, of different sizes, but also the most standard, is used with bait. To practice fly fishing, you must equip yourself with a rod called a “whip” . They have a fixed reel and are known to be very flexible. The fly is the other essential element to have with you. Now it’s time for lure fishing which requires a classic casting rod, equipped with a fixed or rotating reel . It is therefore also necessary to provide lures, to be chosen according to the fish caught.
Fishing rods and baits or lures aren’t the only materials you should have with you when fishing. No need to put on any special outfit if you stay by a lake or river, but it is recommended to wear glasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Fishing is indeed always more pleasant on sunny days. When entering the water to fish, then it is essential to wear waterproof overalls and waders. Similarly, it is always advisable to provide boxes for storing equipment and to have a practical and resistant fishing bag .