Fishing in Périgord

When we think of fishing, we imagine the ultimate relaxation. And yet, this activity is considered a sport, as it's not always easy… Nevertheless, it remains a great way to recharge outdoors and observe nature. It's often a family tradition, passed down from generation to generation. We suggest you go fishing in the Périgord region to share a fun-filled day with your family.

Want to learn how to fish?

First and foremost, you need to find your fishing style, in order to define which body of water to choose.

The main fishing techniques

• Pole fishing is the most classic method. You set up your rod, find a good spot, and just let the fish bite.
• Fly fishing is more of a sport. It is practiced in areas with strong currents, using live bait.
• Fly fishing is ideal for trout fishing. It takes its name from the shape of the hook.
• Spin fishing is probably the most technical. To cast your hook with a lure or bait a sufficient distance, you certainly need a good spinning rod, but above all, a lot of practice. Rest is not an option, as the angler remains constantly active and on the move!

Choosing your fishing spot

• For river fishing, there's a real desire to understand your environment in order to better navigate it. This requires keen observation skills and a good knowledge of the site. You'll be looking for a clear stream. You'll also need to consider the current and water depth, depending on what you want to catch. This will allow you to select the right line and bait. Finally, it's important to adapt your technique and equipment to the regulations.
• As for coarse fish, such as bream, carp, and roach, it's off to the fishing pond! It's a very enjoyable type of fishing for beginners, even if it requires a bit of technique at first. First, you'll need to learn how to set up your pole fishing rig and master the spade end knot.

The basic equipment for starting fishing in Périgord

Fishing sounds appealing, but you're a bit lost in the technical jargon and don't know the different rods and baits to use? Don't panic, we'll clear things up!

The different types of rods and hooks

When choosing a fishing rod, nothing beats the advice of a professional. Whether it's made of carbon fiber, fiberglass, composite, etc., it's essential to keep in mind that the weight and rigidity of the fishing rod are the main criteria.

Spinning, casting, sea spinning, big baits, ultralight… There are all sorts, but that would only confuse you. The main thing to remember is that each fishing rod corresponds to a specific line, depending on the type of fish you want to catch.

Comfort equipment

• Fishing is above all a pastime of patience and you're going to have a good time... So don't neglect a good folding chair.
• You'll be spending a lot of time in a humid area. In summer, remember to protect yourself against mosquitoes !
• Finally, during spring and autumn, a good rain jacket is essential.
• Don't forget your boots for wading in the water if needed.

What species can you fish for in Périgord?

Let's discover together the species of salmonids, predators and whitefish that you might find in the rivers and ponds of the Dordogne:

• The salmonids found in our beautiful Périgord rivers are the brown trout, the grayling, and the brook trout. Rainbow trout are sometimes introduced into the fishing areas.
• Among the predatory fish, the best known are the perch, the pike, the black bass, the catfish and the zander.
• For white fish, there is carp, roach, ruffe, stone loach, crucian carp, tench, dace, bullhead and common bream, gudgeon, minnow…
• Eel fishing is quite unusual.
• You might also encounter some crayfish in the waterways, but they are rare.

The most fish-rich rivers of Périgord

We've taken a tour of the Périgord region to identify the most interesting rivers for fishing. That said, whatever the spot, it's the angler's skill that makes all the difference!

The top 3 most fish-rich rivers in the Périgord region are:

• The Auvézère
• The Loue
• L'Isle

The Dronne is great for fishing from a boat. The Vézère, near Montignac, remains a good spot, although the number of tourists in canoes can be bothersome. The same goes for the Dordogne, where the constant coming and going of barges and canoes can disturb the peace and quiet of your fishing sessions.

Fishing lakes

Whether you're fishing with children or just starting out, a fishing pond is the easiest option. We've selected the nicest bodies of water to please the whole family. Here are our favorite pond fishing spots.

In the Black Périgord

• The Tamniès ponds: home to tench, carp, roach, pike, perch, gudgeon, zander, and sturgeon. There are two ponds. The larger one is ideal for swimming, with its leisure facilities. The smaller one is recommended for fishing.
• At the Bos Ponds: you will find roach, gudgeon, carp, tench, and zander. Catch and release is appreciated but not mandatory.
• The Fongran ponds in Thonac for trout and carp.
• Groléjac Lake boasts beautiful specimens of coarse fish and predatory fish, such as pike, zander, roach, and bleak! You'll also find some migratory fish like eels and shad. Fishing on the lake is free and permitted by the municipality from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

In the White Périgord

• The Barde pond in La Coquille is very full of fish and is also very popular with the many birds that come to nest and feed there.
• Lake Neufont is renowned for its trout and carp.
• Lake Gurson: pike, zander, perch and black bass. Catch and release is mandatory on the small "carp fishing " body of water.

In the Périgord vert

• The Coucou pond in Hautefort where fishing competitions are organized throughout the year.
• The Saint-Estèphe pond where you can fish for rainbow trout. It is regularly restocked.
• The Mialet Reservoir, in the heart of the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park.
• Lake Rouffiac offers a certified fishing route.

In the Purple Périgord

• Lake Pombonne is a place where you can fish for predatory fish such as pike and black bass, as well as rainbow trout. Natural bait is prohibited and fishing is limited to two hooks.

The regulations

Fishing is a family-friendly and enjoyable activity, but it must be practiced with respect for nature, wildlife, and local flora. Here's a quick reminder of the main rules to follow:

• Read the fishing permit carefully, including the authorized periods, restrictions and prohibitions.
• Do not damage natural areas : be careful of the flora when walking on the banks and pick up your waste.
• Have rods and hooks specifically designed for freshwater fishing.
• Certain fishing techniques may be prohibited or restricted depending on the body of water.
• Catch and release may be mandatory in protected ecosystems.
• Respect the number of catches allowed per person.

You are now all set for a fishing session in Périgord and all we have to do is wish you some great catches.

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