The Charente: A paradise for fishermen

The Charente region, with its enchanting landscapes and countless waterways, is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you're a fan of pike, trout, zander, or catfish, the region abounds with idyllic spots where you can indulge your passion while enjoying the bounty of nature. To fully enjoy fishing in the Charente, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with local regulations. Some areas allow fishing without a permit, while others impose quotas or specific restrictions. Anglers know this well: talking to local fishermen and listening to their advice is always invaluable for discovering the best spots and techniques!

Fishing Practices and Spots in Charente

Discover an overview of fishing spots and practices in Charente, but don't forget to always consult the Fishing Federation 16 to be up-to-date on current regulations before casting your line.

Trout: Tributaries of the Charente

For trout enthusiasts, the tributaries of the Charente River are perfect havens. The Bonnieure, for example, meanders through wooded areas and teems with brown trout, accessible via several public access points. The Bandiat, though less well-known, is another tributary offering ideal conditions for trout fishing, particularly around the villages of Marthon and Charras.

Catching Zander: Key Spots

Zander fishing, targeting this fish renowned for its cunning, is particularly popular in the lakes and ponds around Ruffec. These bodies of water offer perfect spots for this fish. Lake Lavaud, on the border between Charente and Haute-Vienne, is another prime location for zander, thanks to its natural beauty and diverse aquatic life, including pike and perch.

Pike Fishing: The Best Rivers

Pike fishing enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in several rivers in the Charente region. The Touvre is renowned for its abundant pike population, thanks to its clear waters rich in aquatic vegetation. Similarly, the Charente River, between Jarnac and Angoulême, offers numerous spots where these predators hide among the weed beds and rocks. The river's secluded coves and backwaters are particularly prized for peaceful and productive fishing.

Carp Fishing in Charente: A Unique Experience

The Charente region offers numerous night carp fishing spots, each providing unique adventures for enthusiasts. The spots around Angoulême, Châteauneuf-sur-Charente, Sireuil, Bourg-Charente, and Merpins-Cognac are among the most popular for this activity.

To protect the carp population, specific tags (called "spaghetti tags") are attached to the base of each fish's dorsal fin, bearing a unique number. Anglers are asked to record the fish's weight, the location of the catch, and the spaghetti number, and to submit this information to the Fishing Federation. It is crucial not to remove the spaghetti from the fin to ensure accurate monitoring of the specimens and the preservation of the species.

In addition to these courses, around fifteen private ponds and bodies of water offer tranquil settings such as the Moulin de Plachas pond, the Tâtre pond and the Galandries pond, which welcome fishermen on reservation and are managed by enthusiasts who fully understand the needs and expectations of fishermen.

Catfish Fishing: Legendary Specimens

The wels catfish has been present in the Charente River for several years, and some individuals exceed 2 meters in length. Catching this trophy fish is often quite a challenge! Catfish enthusiasts will find legendary spots in the Charente, particularly around Cognac and Bourg-Charente, where these predators can reach impressive sizes.

Some favorite fishing spots and routes in Charente

1. La Camoche on the Touvre : this 1,300-meter stretch is perfect for salmon trout fishing. All techniques are permitted, except from a boat, with barbless hooks.
2. Fregeneuil in Angoulême : this 4.5-hectare body of water is dedicated to carp fishing, but it also shelters predatory fish such as perch, pike, and zander. Catch and release is encouraged.
3. Vindelle Lake : known for swimming, this lake is also popular for fishing for pike, trout, catfish and zander. It is part of the "night carp fishing" area.
4. The Port du Lys in Salignac-Charente : located in the lower Charente River valley, this 4.8-kilometer stretch is one of the most beautiful for sport fishing for predatory fish such as pike, zander, perch, black bass, and catfish. It is accessible by motorized or non-motorized watercraft, such as float tubes and canoes/kayaks.

Little secret spots

Besides the major rivers, the Charente offers more secluded spots that are just as rich in fish.

• In Verteuil-sur-Charente, for example, the charming local mill is a popular spot for quiet fishing.
• The Bois-Blanc pond, near Confolens, is a hidden gem, fed by underground springs, offering a peaceful and fish-filled setting.

The Charente region is undoubtedly a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. Its rivers, lakes, and ponds offer a diversity of species and fishing spots, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether you're after large specimens or peaceful havens, the Charente will meet your expectations. Spring and autumn are generally the best seasons for pike and zander, while summer is ideal for trout and catfish.

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