Buying a Carp Fishing Lake in France.... part 1

Buying a Carp Fishing Lake in France....

Part 1

It’s been almost 20 years since I sold my last Carp fishing lake in France, aptly named after my son Sebastian. A beautiful 12-acre venue in the Champagne region, where we spent the best part of 5 years creating a fantastic fishery, still going strong to this day under the new ownership & producing some amazing Carp. I’ve always kept an eye on the lake through social media and their website, with an itch one day to get involved again in the French carp scene.

Roll the clock forward to early 2025 and a that itch was suddenly needing a big scratch, it was time to start the hunt for a new lake, a new venture, to be aptly named this time after my daughter Olivia. This time I was on the lookout for a smaller venue, no more than 4-6 acres, with a couple of acres of land, so as easier on the budget and easier to maintain going forward.

Have you ever imagined owning a serene carp fishing lake in the picturesque landscapes of France? If you're reading this, then chances are it may well have crossed your mind, maybe just a passionate angler or an aspiring investor into the fishing holiday business, this could be the perfect opportunity to combine business with pleasure.

Before we delve too much further into my personal journey, let's explore the essentials of purchasing a carp fishing lake in France and transforming it into a thriving venture.

France offers an idyllic setting for carp fishing enthusiasts. With its beautiful countryside, favourable climate, and rich biodiversity, it's no wonder that France is a top destination for anglers across Europe & worldwide.

Steps to Buying Your Dream Lake

Research and Location: Location, location, location. Begin by identifying the region in France that appeals to you the most. The Dordogne, Limousin, and Brittany are popular areas known for their stunning lakes and vibrant fishing communities, but the mush longer drive from Calais has to be considered. I looked at several lakes I shortlisted in the Limoges area, but I had that gut feeling they were just too far a drive from Calais Port & the Eurotunnel, point of entry into France for a very large percentage of holidaying anglers.

Personally, I wanted somewhere in France no more than 4 hours drive from Calais, finding 2 closed lakes on an 8.5-acre plot in the Picardie Region, just a straightforward 2.5 hour drive from Calais was perfect, so very much ticked that box.

DDT Regulations (Direction Départementale des Territoires): Over the years, since I first bought a lake in France, lake sales have become far more complex due to evolving regulations and much stricter & ever-changing DDT regulations & requirements.

There are no universally "new DDT lake regulations" for all of France; instead, each lake's status and regulations are determined by the local DDT office and can vary based on a lake's classification, purpose, and location. Buyers or owners of lakes generally should work directly with their local DDT office to understand and ensure compliance with requirements for water management, property maintenance, and fishing.

You need to check if the lake you are considering is classified as a so called 'Eau Close' (Closed Lake) or not, because if it is not (this is when there is a stream running in on one end and going out the other, then you need to make sure that the lake is certified by the DDT. This is necessary for all lakes that can be drained by letting water out to a stream via an outlet. This way they want to reduce the risk of polluting surrounding nature. With this type of lake typically every 2-5 years DDT requiring draining the lake, checking dam walls and monk systems, and you are required to make any rectifications as DDT advise, this can be costly and take time.

Budgeting: Determine your budget for the purchase. Costs can vary significantly depending on the lake's location, size, and facilities. Factor in additional expenses like Agent fees (the buyer pays the Agent under French Law, Notaire who will do the legal paperwork, legal fees, taxes, DDP costs and potential landscaping, renovation costs, swim building and of course fish stocking (and fish availability). Plan for future maintenance, running costs & upkeep - Set aside a budget for regular maintenance and unforeseen repairs.

Legal Considerations: Navigating French property laws can be complex. Engage a local property lawyer who specializes in rural or commercial properties to guide you through the process.

Inspection and Evaluation: Before purchasing, inspect the lake thoroughly. Consider water quality, fish stock, and the surrounding environment. Hiring a professional to conduct an environmental assessment or the help from an experienced fishery owner in the region is advisable.

Business Plan: Develop a clear business plan: Decide whether you want to run the lake as a private retreat, a commercial fishing venue, or a combination of both. Assess potential revenue streams, such as fishing costs, exclusive hire, accommodation, bait & food sales, equipment rental, bailiff costs etc

Community Engagement: Engage with the local community. Building good relationships with neighbours and local authorities will be beneficial for business operations and compliance with regulations. Promote Sustainability - Implement sustainable practices to preserve the lake's ecosystem and appeal to eco-conscious visitors.

Rare Cases and Alternative Opinions: While buying a carp fishing lake in France can be a dream come true, some may argue that it comes with challenges. Maintaining a lake requires ongoing investment and attention to environmental factors. In rare cases, unforeseen issues like water pollution or invasive species can arise. However, with proper management and expert guidance, these challenges can be mitigated.

Owning a carp fishing lake in France is not just a financial investment; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of nature while sharing your passion with others. Are you ready to cast your line into an exciting French venture?

See you in Part 2.