How much bait will I need?

It depends on the time of year, early season you want to fish small spots with easily digestible bait. After spawning, you want to bait heavier as the carp are more active and also the smaller fish, crayfish, etc - essentially you want to keep a nice spot with a good quantity of food.

What bait do you recommend?

Boilies small size 15mm to 18mm with fishmeal/squidmeal plus spice, creamy/nutty boilies are also very effective.

If you supply bait on site, will I be able to get more bait during my stay if I need it?

Yes we sell everything: our own high quality boilies, pellets bags, and fresh particles cooked by ourselves. Shouldn't be a problem to order more during the week.

Is my UK carp set-up suitable for use at your lake?

Yes of course, that's no problem.

What hook size do you recommend?

2 or 4 will be perfect for our lake; no small hooks, we allow sizes 2 to 6.

What breaking strain of main line do you recommend?

You could use mono, size 0.30 or 0.35mm will be perfect.

What is the surface of the swims - can I use bank sticks?

The swims are gravel, suitable for bank sticks.

Are any special tactics required?

Not particularly. You’ll find a depth map in the cabin which helps you to find underwater features to fish to.

Do you recommend use of a bait boat?

Yes, a bait boat could work well after finding a good spot. Rowing boats are also allowed if you wish to bring your own (but you must wear a life jacket at all times).

Can I drive all the way around the lake in order to unload?

You can drive from the entrance gate to the lodge and main swim, this is a gravel track. You can keep your car parked here for the week. It is not possible to drive around the rest of the lake.

Is the lake secure? Can we leave our gear on the bankside if we go out?

There is a fence all around the lake, the gates are locked with a coded padlock. However, items are left at your own risk.

Can I sleep in the accommodation whilst my rods are out?

Yes, because of the cabins proximity to the water, it is no problem to fish at night whilst sleeping in the cabin.

Can we drink the tap water?

Unfortunately no, the tap water is not drinkable. Please bring bottled water for drinking.

Do you have UK plug points?

No, please bring your own adaptors.

Can I get mobile phone coverage at the lake?

Yes, usually a really good connection with 4G signal, although it may depend on your provider.

How far are the nearest supermarket / petrol / tabac?

The supermarket, bakery and tabac are in nearby Vaudes & Saint-Parres-les-Vaudes, less than 3km from the lake.

Why choose an exclusive carp fishing lake in France?

An exclusive carp fishing lake gives anglers complete privacy, allowing them to fish at their own pace without sharing swims or facilities with other groups. Ilot combines this exclusivity with comfortable, simple lodge accommodation and quality carp fishing.

Is Ilot suitable for a first French carp fishing holiday?

Yes. We think Ilot provides a relaxed introduction to French carp fishing, with fairly straight-forward fishing and a good stock of carp. Whilst it is not a runs water, it usually provides fairly consistent fishing. It is ideal for anglers who want to experience carp fishing in France without the crowds of larger venues and with the space to target any of the lake's features you choose.

What makes Ilot different from other carp fishing lakes in France?

Ilot stands out because it offers exclusive use of the entire lake for just two anglers, combined with simple lakeside lodge accommodation. The intimate size of the lake makes it accessible fishing from a sociable double swim.