The Vézère valley in Dordogne is full of outdoor activities. For nature lovers, its landscapes and environment are renowned for their richness and diversity. Caves, castles and fishing, you will be spoiled for choice! Rivers, streams and ponds welcome many amateur and professional fishermen. With family or between amateurs, experience fishing in the Vézère valley in Dordogne. Here are the best spots for unforgettable memories in Périgord.

Why come fishing in the Vézère valley in Dordogne?

The Vézère Valley in Dordogne offers fishermen a variety of species, in grandiose landscapes: trout, pike, zander and other roach. Every year, the Vézère valley is transformed into a playground for apprentice and experienced fishermen. Clear water reveals up to 3 m depth. Calm and discretion are therefore essential for great fishing!

Fishing, an activity for everyone

3 fishing routes have been certified to provide the best experience according to everyone’s expectations:

  • “Discovery” course for beginners who wish to learn fishing; 
  • “Family” course for those who wish to spend a moment of to relax ;
  • “Passion” course, for the specialists fishing for river or pond fish.

Streams and rivers are classified into fish categories:

  • La 1re catégorie includes salmonids, such as char, grayling and trout.
  • La 2de catégorie brings together bodies of water and all other canals and watercourses. 

The essential fishing spots in Dordogne

Périgord therefore offers practitioners a wide variety of sites. Whether for fly fishing or more traditional reel techniques, here is a guide to emblematic places of the Dordogne.

The valleys

In addition to those of the Dordogne and Isle, think of the Vézère valley. The river meanders along steep cliffs and forested valleys immediately transport you to another world. 

The throats

Discover the magnificent Saut Ruban waterfall in the Auvézère river, whose clear, clear water requires discretion.

Ponds and bodies of water

Tease the fish on a large body of water, especially in the ponds of:

  • Le Bos;
  • Tamnies;
  • Saint Estephe ;
  • Fongran;
  • Firbeix;
  • Neufont;
  • La Ganne;
  • The Net;
  • The Lescouroux.

Thanks to the marked trails, you can access the best fishing areas. Aquatic ecosystems are rich in a wide variety of fish and plants.

What are the specificities of fishing in Dordogne?

The Dordogne is a pioneer department in the renewal of species. Fishing regulations are therefore strictly regulated to ensure the preservation of water and the environment.

Good to know :

The fishing area is divided into 2 categories. The public domain includes several rivers: the Isle, the Vézère and the Dordogne. If you fish somewhere other than one of these three rivers, it may be private property! 

     

Fishing regulations in Dordogne

We must therefore be attentive to respect certain rules :

  • reserve areas, both temporary and permanent;
  • legal fishing hours;
  • the opening period;
  • navigation sectors.

The fishing license is obligatory. The price of this card is set by the Dordogne departmental fishing federation. It varies depending on age and desired category. For the year 2023, count for a card:

  • adult: €80 
  • interfederal registration for an adult: €105
  • minor: €22
  • discovery: €7
  • daily: €15
  • weekly: €34

Fish from Vézère and Dordogne

These two rivers are mainly frequented by migratory fish. You will enjoy fishing there:

  • salmonids (trout and salmon);
  • white fish (carp and roach)
  • predators (pike, zander, catfish)
  • lampreys, shad, bleak or eels.

These fishing areas of 2de category impose minimum sizes:

  • 60 cm for pike;
  • 15 cm for the pole;
  • 50 cm for zander.

Material adapted to each audience

Everyone has their own techniques! Whether for leisure fishing or sport fishing, you will find many stores offering equipment for fishing in rivers or ponds:

  • canes;
  • reels;
  • lures;
  • bait;
  • all kinds of accessories.

Whether you're a newbie or an experienced fisherman, you should be able to find what you need without difficulty. 

Fishing in the Vézère valley in Dordogne is a very pleasant activity and accessible to all audiences. After discovering the caves and numerous castles of Périgord Noir, fishing completes your week of vacation perfectly. This is the opportunity to make unique memories in an exceptional setting. With its numerous rivers, category 1 bodies of water and natural parks, the Dordogne offers a huge choice of different fishing spots. Whether you are looking for river or pond fish, you will certainly find a place suited to your tastes.

Info +

Go to the Lascaux-Dordogne, Vézère Valley tourist office to obtain complete documentation on fishing in the Dordogne.

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