Your sea and freshwater fishing guide between Noirmoutier and Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie
Carp fishing in Vendée
A technical, calm and exciting approach in the heart of nature
Carp fishing is a unique discipline, blending observation, strategy, and patience. An emblematic fish of our freshwater ecosystems, the carp fascinates with its power and wary nature, capable of challenging both the beginner and the seasoned angler. Found in many lakes and ponds in the Vendée region, it prefers calm, vegetation-rich areas where it can reach several kilos. Long considered a contemplative form of fishing, it is now one of the most popular activities in Europe thanks to the thrilling experience it provides during the fight.
Carp fishing in the Vendée region benefits from a favorable natural environment: shaded ponds, large lakes, accessible rivers, and areas maintained by local federations. These conditions make it an ideal activity to enjoy during the day or at night, in a relaxing setting, alone, with friends, or with family. The approach relies on essential technical steps: locating the fishing spot, baiting, precise rigging, managing bites, and handling the fish respectfully. When the bite alarm sounds, the fight demands mastery of the drag, power, and composure when facing a robust and unpredictable fish.
Carp fishing is also strongly linked to values of respect for nature. Catch and release—releasing the fish after capture—is very common, allowing for the preservation of fish populations and the sustainable enjoyment of increasingly larger specimens. For anglers in the Vendée region, dedicated stretches of water offer optimal conditions, with appropriate equipment: long, powerful rods, robust reels, hair rigs, unhooking mats, bite alarms, and more. It's a practice that combines total immersion, calm, strategic thinking, and the adrenaline rush of a bite.
Practical information
– Carp fishing is possible in Vendée ponds, lakes and rivers
– Fishing license required
– The common practice of catch and release to preserve populations
– Recommended equipment: 3 to 3.90 m rods, carp reel, hair rig, bite alarms, unhooking mat
– Best performance in calm spots: weed beds, drop-offs, submerged branches
– Seasonal routes 2025/2026 open from September 1, 2025 to April 20, 2026:
• Apremont: 1,550 m (2 routes)
• Jaunay: 4,450 m (3 routes)
• Mervent: 3,600 m (1 route)
• Marillet: 450 m (1 course)
Customized services
– Introduction to or improvement of carp fishing
– Assistance with locating the workstation and reading the zones
– Assistance in setting up an effective priming
– Loan of complete equipment: rod, bite alarms, bait, rigs
– Training in rig techniques (hair rig, weighted rig, adapted rigs)
– Advice on handling and releasing the fish with respect for them
– Sessions tailored to your needs: daytime, evening, introductory or advanced
Carp fishing techniques
Pole fishing and feeder fishing
An accessible and highly effective method for targeting carp in canals, slow-moving rivers, and still waters. Feeder fishing allows for precise baiting thanks to a cage filled with groundbait and micro-pellets, ideal for keeping fish in the swim. Reinforced pole fishing, with stronger lines and bulkier baits (corn, pellets, maggots), allows you to target carp in shallow areas or near the banks.
Boilie fishing
The gold standard of modern carp fishing. Hair rigs allow for a natural and selective presentation of the boilie. Pop-up rigs lift the bait above bottom debris, while wafters ensure a balanced and very discreet presentation. Groundbaiting—whether spot, light, or heavy—remains crucial for attracting and keeping fish in the area.
Subtle approaches and stalking
Discreet and highly effective methods for targeting educated fish or those holding near cover. Stalking involves spotting carp visually before fishing for them with minimal tackle. Simple rigs (corn, pellets, floating bread) and light presentations allow for immediate and precise strikes. Float fishing, with surface-floating baits, excels in summer for fish basking in the sun.
When is the best time to fish for carp?
– Spring: high activity during the rise in temperature. The fish move around a lot; stalking and small baiting are very effective.
– Summer: activity is particularly high at sunrise and sunset. Surface fishing, floating bread, and light tackle fishing yield excellent results.
– Autumn: the most productive period. Carp feed intensively before winter; regular baiting and heavy boilies work very well.
– Winter: reduced activity, fish grouped together. Slow fishing, delicate presentations and minimal baiting.
