France has long been a dream destination for anglers looking to land large carp. In this article, we’ll explore nine top French lakes for big carp – places where a 70lb’er is a genuine possibility. Discover these proven, ultimate destinations for your next big carp adventure.
1. Old Oaks
Nestled in the heart of France, 5 acre Old Oaks is a true gem. Opened in 2006 by Mehdi Daho, Old Oaks is a testament to his dedication and expertise in creating world-class fisheries. Mehdi’s first lake Laroussi became very well known in the early 2000’s for producing loads of 50lb+ carp, newsworthy in all the publications at the time. Old Oaks then was his second project – and we can certainly class it as a success.
Exclusively available for groups of up to five anglers, this intimate lake offers unparalleled access to some of the biggest and most sought-after carp in France.
The lake’s current record is a stunning common that exceeds 82lb, named the ‘long common’ and it isn’t hard to see why. This is one of the very few lakes in France where you are more likely to catch a 40lb+ carp than smaller, consistently delivering trophy fish for those ready to take on the challenge.
See more about the lake and book here: Old Oaks Carp Lake
2. Sky Lake
Since its establishment in 2007, Sky Lake has quickly become one of France’s most sought-after venues. With a lake record now exceeding a remarkable 84lb, Sky Lake continues to attract serious anglers in pursuit of monster carp.
Spanning 12 acres and home to approximately 600 carp, it boasts an impressive stock, with around 50 fish now tipping the scales at over 50lb. Whilst not a “runs water,” it’s still a fairly straight forward lake to fish. Importantly, the chance of landing a PB is also very much alive.
Anglers also appreciate its location in northern France, which makes it a simple drive of just over 3 hours from Calais.
See more about the lake and book here: Sky Lake
3. Fullys Lake
Fullys Lake is a 26-acre gravel pit that offers some of the most unique and picturesque carp fishing. Home to around 550 carp, including stunning commons and mirrors at over 70lb, the real jewels of this lake are its dazzling scaley specimens. With an impressive mix of linears, fully-scaled mirrors, and even the occasional koi, Fullys Lake promises a photo album full of striking captures.
Created and meticulously managed by Constant Lebel, a respected French FOX consultant, Fullys Lake strikes the perfect balance between a well-maintained fishery with comfortable swims and a natural, wild appeal.
See more about the lake and book here: Fullys Lake
4. Golden Carp Lake
Set in the Dordogne region in south-west France, Golden Carp Lake is a 12-acre angler’s paradise, surrounded by 20 acres of unspoiled woodland, with the added benefit of almost unbeatable anglers facilities – the social lodge is well equipped and only 20 metres from all three double swims.
The lake is home to a thriving stock of big carp, back in 2022 we calculated at least:
- 1x 70lb+ fish
- 4x 60lb+ fish
- 14x 50lb+ fish
- 38x 44lb+ fish
Among the stars of the lake is the “BSM” (Big Scaled Mirror), which has held the record for the past couple of years at an impressive 71lb. This magnificent fish is regularly landed throughout the year, with its weight fluctuating between 64lb and its peak weight as the season progresses, offering anglers a real chance to land a true giant.
See more about the lake and book here: Golden Carp Lake
5. Emeraude
A stunning 15-acre gravel pit in Northwest France, this is a true haven for big carp enthusiasts. The lake record sits at over 72lb, alongside at least 60 carp tipping the scales at 40lb+. Time and time again this lake has proven it delivers unforgettable holidays.
With wild overhanging margins, diverse depths and an array of underwater features, Emeraude is a challenging lake. However, if you apply your skills, the rewards are definitely there.
You can book swims individually (all doubles) or hire the lake exclusively for your group of up to 10 anglers. We do however recommend booking it for up to 8 anglers, for a more comfortable angling experience.
See more about the lake and book here: Emeraude
6. Evaro
Opened to anglers in 2021, Evaro has quickly earned a reputation as a must-visit lake for experienced carp anglers. This is a 7.5 acre gravel pit, set in the picturesque Champagne region, just a 3 hour 45-minute drive from Calais.
Evaro holds an estimated 280 carp that culminates in a lake-record common surpassing an incredible 84lb. Whilst it is definitely not a runs water, the lake offers serious rewards for those willing to rise to its challenges.
The lake features three spacious double swims, comfortably accommodating six anglers. You prebook your swim in advance. For those seeking exclusivity, you can book Evaro privately for your group of up to seven anglers by incorporating its fourth single swim.
Packed with underwater features and diverse depths, Evaro offers a rewarding experience for seasoned anglers.
See more about the lake and book here: Evaro Carp Lake
7. Jonchery
Jonchery is a renowned 30-acre lake meticulously created and managed by the esteemed Bachelier fish farming family.
The lake boasts six spacious double swims, which you prebook in advance. Jonchery’s stock includes over 45 carp exceeding 50lb, around 10 surpassing 60lb and a lake record over 70lb. With these large carp, and even grass carp exceeding 77lb, the potential for big fish action is immense.
What also sets Jonchery apart is the hand selected mirrors, chosen for their remarkable scale patterns. From scale perfect linears to fully scaled mirrors – they’re definitely carp you want in your photo album!
Optional food packages and bait are available to purchase on site, both highly rated by anglers.
See more about the lake and book here: Jonchery Carp Lake
8. Seigneurie
Seigneurie is a well managed 12.5 acre gravel pit in the peaceful Eure Valley around 3 hours from Calais. Created by Bruno Simond, the same owner as the much-loved Deux Iles, this quiet venue has quickly gained a reputation for consistent action and big carp to over 71lb.
The lake offers three spacious double swims (including a unique pair of singles back-to-back at one end) that give anglers plenty of water to target. Fishing is fairly straight forward here with plenty of 30’s and 40’s, alongside genuine potential for a 70lb+ new personal best!
Available as individual bookings or exclusive for up to six anglers, Seigneurie is also under three hours drive from the port of Calais, therefore easy to reach.
See more about the lake and book here: Seigneurie Carp Lake
9. Beaurepaire
Beaurepaire is a traditional French gravel-pit around 7 acres in size, located just 2 and a half hours from the port of Calais. The lake has a relaxed feel and is home to carp up to 73lb.
There are no fixed swims here giving anglers freedom to bivvy up where they choose. A large central spit is the main feature and acts as a natural base camp for a group. You can reach all areas of the lake from here whilst bivvying up together.
The stock here is very mature with an excellent average weight and also a good head of large catfish for those that wish to target them. Baitboats and boats are allowed, dogs are also welcome.
For those wanting a simple authentic carp fishing holiday with big fish potential, then Beaurepaire is a great choice.
See more about the lake and book here: Beaurepaire Carp Lake
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