Here, fishing is a leisurely affair
Provence, an unexpected fishing paradise — rivers, gorges and lakes with crystal-clear waters
Territory
+40 km of rivers
Duration
Demi-journée à journée
Fishing licence
Compulsory
Season
March to October
An Unexpected Fishing Paradise
Set amongst gorges and hills, between isles and valleys, the Verdon region offers discerning anglers an exceptional fishing ground. The AAPPMA Verdon-Colostre manages over 40 km of first-class rivers and 518 hectares of lakes — a rare find in the heart of Provence.
The Verdon and the Colostre are home to wild brown trout that have inhabited these waters since time immemorial. Recognisable by the multitude of black spots on their gill covers, they are the river’s living treasure. Catching them requires finesse and discretion — that is the very art of fishing on the Verdon.
For lake fishing enthusiasts, the turquoise waters of Esparron, Quinson and Montpezat are teeming with pike, zander and perch. Whether by boat or from the banks, every trip offers a chance to immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery.
Fishing Trails
The Verdon — No-Kill Route
Wild brown trout in the shaded waters of Gréoux-les-Bains. A 3.4 km catch-and-release stretch: single hooks compulsory, all fish must be released. Techniques: casting and fly fishing.
Colostre
The main tributary of the Bas-Verdon, 36 km of fast-flowing, narrow river winding through magnificent wooded gorges. Wild brown trout. A scenic route through rolling hills, with panoramic views and secluded farms.
Lake Esparron-de-Verdon
An artificial lake created in 1957, comprising 8 km of lower gorges and 6 km of reservoir. Pike, zander, perch and rainbow trout. Kayaks, rowing boats and electric boats available for hire on site.
The Lakes of Quinson and Montpezat
The Verdon flows freely from the Sainte-Croix dam to Quinson. Pike, perch and whitefish. Access by boat is recommended from Quinson or Saint-Laurent-du-Verdon.
Travel Tips
Fishing licence
- • Compulsory for all anglers
- • Online: cartedepeche.fr → AAPPMA Verdon-Colostre
- • Local: Tourist Information Offices in Gréoux, Quinson, Riez and Valensole
- • Prices: from €6 (daily) to €96 (annual)
- • Day pass available
Regulations
- • Category 1: From the second Saturday in March to the first Sunday in October
- • Category 2 (lakes): 17 April to 31 January
- • Minimum size for brown trout: 23 cm (tributaries) / 30 cm (lower Verdon)
- • Limit: 6 salmonids per day per angler
- • No-Kill Route: single hooks without barbs
Ready to cast your line?
Book your stay and set off to explore the wild, unspoilt waters at the heart of the Verdon.