Etang de Berniere
Availability 14 Anglers
Etang de Berniere is a 27 acre lake located in the Champagne region of north east France. It is a new venue for DreamCarp Holiday for the 2025 season.
Originally excavated as a gravel pit more than 40 years ago, Berniere has depths ranging from 10 to 19 feet and 13 swims, including 5 doubles and 7 singles, all designed to retain a natural appearance.
The lake holds around 450 carp to well over 60lbs including over 100 fish over 40lbs, 15 to 20 over 50lbs and 6 over 60lbs. It is an incredibly exciting lake to fish and recommended for experienced anglers only. In recent years it has been used as a venue for filming by Carp Fix TV, New Direction Tackle as well as Rob Burgess and Jim Shelley.
Although large, the lake’s elongated layout and consistent depths—averaging 12 feet—mean the carp tend to move along the length of the lake rather than congregating in the middle. At just 185 yards wide, there are no clear hiding spots for the fish, so casting to the centre is often unnecessary. The finger bay is worth monitoring during the warmer months, as swim 9 frequently produces carp caught on the surface during hot weather.
As with many French carp lakes, Berniere is home to bream, poisson chat, and crayfish. Although these are being removed, it is advisable to come prepared with tiger nuts for the hair rig if these species become an issue.
Weed can be present in the lake, making it well-suited to anglers comfortable fishing in these conditions. To assist, we provide rowing boats for your use, along with life jackets, which must be worn. Baitboats are also permitted, and some rowing boats can accommodate outboard motors. Please inform us in advance if you plan to bring one.
A track encircles the lake, allowing vehicle access to all swims, making setting up and packing down straightforward. You can park directly behind your swim for the duration of your stay. The lake is fully enclosed with secure fencing to provide peace of mind.
Many swims are equipped with steps leading into the water, which can be helpful when water levels drop during summer.
Campervans
All swims can accommodate campervans up to the size of a long-wheelbase Transit. For larger campervans, swims 1, 2, 8, and 11 are the most suitable options.
Bookings are Saturday to Saturday
Bait can be purchased from the on-site bailiff. Ensure to order a couple of weeks before your trip.
Please do not arrive at the lake before midday.
The latest departure time is strictly 10:30 am.
A fishing line with a minimum strength of 15lb is required.
Leaders of any kind, including safe zone leaders, are not allowed.
We sell particle bait on-site (advance orders required), but you’re welcome to bring your own. However, it must be shop-bought and pre-prepared to ensure proper preparation.
Tiger nuts can also be brought along, but they must be commercially prepared and not homemade. For summer fishing, we recommend using tiger nuts on the hair rig for the best results.
- A maximum of three rods per angler is permitted.
- Do not leave your rods unattended while fishing.
- Braided mainlines or leaders are prohibited; braid may only be used on spod or marker rods.
- Only barbed hooks are acceptable.
- All anglers must carry appropriate carp care gear to treat fish before returning them to the water.
- Bait boats are allowed but must remain within the boundaries of your swim.
Restrictions and Prohibitions:
- Fires are not allowed.
- Disposable barbecues are not permitted; only barbecues with legs can be used.
Please respect other anglers. While we encourage you to enjoy your time, be considerate of those around you. Ensure the kitchen area is left as clean as you found it.
Likewise, toilets and showers should be kept in good condition. Do not dispose of baby wipes, as they can damage the septic system.
Rowing Boat Guidelines:
Rowing boats are allowed, but life jackets must be worn at all times. Failure to wear a jacket while in a boat will result in being asked to leave.
We provide rowing boats and life jackets for your use. Some boats can accommodate outboard motors—if you plan to bring one, please let us know in advance.
Dogs:
Dogs are welcome with prior approval but must always be kept under control, and owners must clean up after them.
As the lake is in a remote area, our facilities are powered by solar energy and gas. For further details, see the facilities section on the venue webpage. Should you encounter any issues with the facilities during your visit, please inform us promptly, and we will resolve them as soon as possible.
| Port | Distance |
|---|---|
| Calais | 241 miles |
| Dieppe | 210 miles |
| Le Havre | 211 miles |
| Caen | 250 miles |
| Dunkirk | 262 miles |
| Cherbourge | 309 miles |
| St. Malo | 323 miles |
| Roscoff | 412 miles |