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Best 7 Fishing Spots in Paris - A Guide to City Fishing Breaks

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Best 7 Fishing Spots in Paris - A Guide to City Fishing Breaks

The city of Paris, also known as the city of light, offers many places to practice urban fishing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, this city is full of magnificent places where you can practice your passion for fishing. 

In this guide, we invite you to discover the best fishing spots in Paris, the species of fish you can find there, as well as the rules to follow for responsible fishing. We will also cover how to get fishing tackle and bait whilst outside of the UK with the help of AnglingDirect.EU!


Do you need a fishing Licence to fish in France?

When looking to fish on a public waterway in France, don't forget your fishing permit. These permits or fishing licences are easily obtainable from sporting goods stores, cafés or tourist offices in and around Paris. You'll be set for a fun and (hopefully!) successful day of fishing. Failing that you can purchase a permit online before you set off to France from Cartdepeche.fr.

carte de pechecarte de peche

According to France.FR, the approximate costs for a licence to fish in Paris, France are: 

  • 1-day permit = 10€ / Roughly £9
  • 1-year permit = 60€ / Roughly £53
  • For children under 16 = 30€ / Roughly £27
  • 2-week vacation permit (issued from June through September) = 30€ / Roughy £27

Why Should I Try Fishing in Paris?

Many anglers are attracted to carp fishing in France, however, in Paris, you can find a wide variety of different fish species in the different fishing spots. 

Great Angler's Specie GuideGreat Angler's Specie Guide

7 Best Places to Fish in Paris

1. Ville d'Avray Ponds

These ponds are located west of Paris and are surrounded by a beautiful forest. They offer a wide variety of fish like pike, carp and roach.

2. Canal Saint-Martin

This canal is famous for its bridges and cafés. But did you know that it is also an excellent place for fishing? You will find roach, perch, carp and pike there.

3. The Seine

The River Seine is one of the largest rivers in Europe and offers a wide variety of fish such as carp, zander, perch, pike and catfish. The banks are accessible and easy to access for fishing.

4. Canal de l'Ourcq

This canal is located on the outskirts of Paris and is known for its pike, carp and perch. It is an ideal place for float-tube fishing.

Fishing Lakes in France


5. Lac des Minimes

Located in the Bois de Boulogne, this lake is one of the most peaceful for fishing in Paris. It offers a wide variety of fish such as pike, carp and roach.

6. Lac de Créteil

This lake is located east of Paris and is an ideal place for boat fishing. Here you will find carp, pike, perch and roach.

7. Lac Daumesnil

Located in the Bois de Vincennes, this lake is one of the most popular for fishing in Paris. Here you will find many species of fish such as pike, roach and carp. It is also possible to rent a boat to fish in the open water.

Carp FishingCarp Fishing

WARNING: It is important to find out which species are allowed to fish in each location and to follow the rules for the size and the number of fish you can catch. It is also important to know that some species may be protected. Therefore, it is essential to enquire before fishing.


How To Find Fishing Spots in Paris

Find out about local fishing regulations

Before you go looking for a place to fish, find out about the local fishing rules and regulations in the area where you want to fish. You can contact the Fédération Nationale de la Pêche in France or the local authorities for information on current fishing regulations.

Do some online research

Use angling websites and fishing forums to find information on popular places to fish and fishing techniques suitable for the area you are targeting.

Ask for local advice

If you can speak French you can ask the local anglers to give you valuable information on the best places to fish in the area, what fishing techniques work best, and what times of year are best for fishing. If English is the only language you can speak, consider a translator or using a translation app.

Look for fish-holding areas

Look for places where fish tend to congregate, such as food areas, rocks, islands, sandbars, or estuaries.

Check local fishing reports

Many areas publish regular fishing reports, which provide information on where fish are active and what types of lures and bait work best.

Best Time to Go FishingBest Time to Go Fishing

Ultimately, choosing a good place to fish will come down to your fishing experience, personal preferences, and local conditions. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of finding a good place to fish and catch fish.


Rules for Fishing in Paris

In addition to sorting the correct French fishing permit, it is important to remember that fishing in Paris is subject to rules to preserve the nature and well-being of the fish.

1. Fishing is authorized only with a valid and valid fishing license. You can get this card in speciality stores or online.
2. Fishing periods are regulated and vary according to location. It is important to find out the fishing opening and closing dates for each fishing location.
3. The number of fish you can catch is limited, and the minimum and maximum sizes are also regulated. It is important to find out about these rules before fishing.
4. The baits used must be authorised and respect the environment. It is forbidden to use live bait or fish food.
5. The practice of fishing must respect safety rules and other anglers. It is important not to disturb other people around the fishing spot.
6. It is forbidden to throw waste into the water. Waste must be thrown in the bins provided for this purpose.

Wild Life When FishingWild Life When Fishing

By respecting these rules, you will help preserve natural fishing environments and ensure a sustainable practice that respects the environment.


Where can you fish without a license in Paris?

Fishing without a license is only authorised in bodies of water located on private property, with the authorisation of the fishery owner. In public waters such as the Seine and the Parisian canals, it is mandatory to have a fishing permit.


How To Ship Fishing Bait to Paris

Fishing Bait DeliveryFishing Bait Delivery

Once you have arrived in Paris for your fishing trip, visit our Europe site which dispatches fishing tackle and bait from our Netherlands warehouse to your destination! You may struggle to pack bait when travelling from the UK due to leaving the EU. Since the UK left the EU, you can NOT bring any meat or dairy products into France or other EU countries, from outside the EU.

Check our Europe Delivery Page for the standard shipping costs and times.


If you are looking to go fishing in the romantic city of Paris, you’re in luck. From tranquil family past-times to serious angling for experienced anglers, these fishing destinations truly have something for everyone. Whether it’s a one-time day trip or an entire week in France dedicated to fishing and relaxation, any of these places provide an opportunity for a unique and unforgettable experience that you’ll be sure to remember forever. 

Don’t forget that responsible fishing means caring for your environment, taking only what you need and adapting your practices according to the local regulations. So remember—enjoy the beautiful landscapes, capture some fish and treat the environment with respect! And don't forget to stock up on all the essential fishing tackle equipment before setting off on your Paris adventure with Angling Direct!

Perch FishingPerch Fishing


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