Blog

The Martin Pêcheur Blog

Blog

Guides, tips and fishing stories from the Lot river

Read our in-depth articles on fishing in France: species guides, detailed techniques, regulations, gear reviews and session reports.

Regulations & Practice

Everything about licences, legal sizes and legislation.

Regulations & Practice12 min read

Fishing Licence in France: Prices, Types and Where to Buy

Everything you need to know about fishing licences in France in 2026: the different types, updated rates, reciprocity, how to buy online, and the rules for foreign anglers.

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Species & Technique Guides

In-depth guides to master every species and technique.

Species & Technique Guides15 min read

Complete Guide to Carp Fishing in France

From common carp to mirror carp, from boilie to method feeder: everything you need to know to fish for carp in France, whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler.

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Species & Technique Guides14 min read

Wels Catfish Fishing: A Beginner's Guide

The wels catfish is the largest freshwater fish in Europe. Here's how to get started: techniques, tackle, spots and tips to land your first whiskered giant.

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Species & Technique Guides12 min read

The 10 Best Lures for Pike

Shads, jerkbaits, spinnerbaits or crankbaits: which lures should you put in your box to target pike? Our selection of the 10 must-haves with detailed analysis.

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Species & Technique Guides11 min read

How to Fish for Zander in Winter

Zander is one of the few predators that stays active in winter. But you need to adapt your techniques to the cold. Here are our strategies for targeting them between December and February.

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Species & Technique Guides10 min read

The Biggest Carp Caught in France

44 kg for a common, mirrors exceeding 35 kg: discover carp records in France, the legendary lakes and the stories behind these exceptional catches.

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Species & Technique Guides11 min read

Catfish Records in France and Europe

2.79 m in the Tarn in 2025, 2.85 m in the Po in Italy: catfish records keep pushing the limits. Discover the most spectacular catches in France and Europe.

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Species & Technique Guides10 min read

Largemouth Bass in France: Where and How to Fish for Them

The largemouth bass (black-bass) is conquering French waters. Discover the best spots, lure techniques and regulations for this exciting species.

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Species & Technique Guides13 min read

The 15 Best Carp Baits

Boilies, tiger nuts, sweetcorn, pellets, seeds: which bait to choose for carp? Our ranking of the 15 best baits with their optimal use according to the season.

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Species & Technique Guides10 min read

No-Kill Fishing: Why and How to Practice

No-kill is much more than a trend: it is a philosophy that preserves fish stocks. Here is why and how to practise catch-and-release in the best conditions.

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Species & Technique Guides9 min read

Common Carp vs Mirror Carp: The Differences

Common, mirror, leather, koi: learn to recognise the different carp varieties, their physical characteristics and behaviour when fishing.

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Species & Technique Guides11 min read

How to Choose Your Carp Rod

12 or 13 ft? 2.5 or 3.5 lb? Parabolic or progressive? Everything you need to know to choose the carp rod suited to your practice and budget.

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Species & Technique Guides10 min read

How to Choose Your Carp Reel

Baitrunner or front drag? Size 5000 or 10000? The reel is a crucial investment for the carp angler. Here is how to choose the one that matches your practice.

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Species & Technique Guides10 min read

The Essential Knots for Carp Fishing

Palomar, knotless knot, Grinner, Albright: mastering these essential knots makes the difference between a carp on the mat and a drop-off. Practical guide with usage for each knot.

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Species & Technique Guides12 min read

Bivouac and Carp Fishing: Organisation

A 48 to 72 hour carp session takes planning. Bivvy, sleeping bag, stove, food: here is how to prepare your bivouac for a successful and comfortable session.

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Species & Technique Guides11 min read

River Carp vs Lake Carp Fishing

River carp fishing and lake carp fishing are two different disciplines. Discover the necessary adaptations in terms of tackle, techniques and strategy to excel in both venues.

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Destination & Travel

Trip ideas, itineraries and discoveries around fishing.

Destination & Travel15 min read

Top 10 Best Fishing Lodges in France in 2026

Our selection of the 10 best fishing lodges in France in 2026. From the Lot to Normandy, via Champagne and Rhône-Alpes: discover the must-visit addresses for your carp fishing holidays.

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Destination & Travel14 min read

Carp Fishing on the Lot: 2026 Complete Guide

The Lot is one of France's finest rivers for carp. Exceptional biodiversity, specimens up to 30 kg, accessible swims: discover the complete guide to successful carp sessions on the Lot in 2026.

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