Set in the heart of the French countryside, La Retraite is a peaceful 2.5-acre carp fishing lake offering privacy, natural beauty, and carp to over 60lb+. The venue caters for up to three anglers, with comfortable on-site lodge accommodation for two guests – making it ideal for a pair of anglers or a couple seeking a relaxing fishing escape.
La Retraite is located near the village of Ambernac, close to the medieval town of Confolens, in the Charente region of France, it is approximately 4 hours 30 minutes from Caen ferry port.
For non-anglers, the surroundings are equally appealing with quiet walking and cycling routes, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to enjoy the wildlife that thrives around the lake.
Size: 2.5 acres
Depths: up to 7ft
Features: Two islands, reed beds, lily pads, spring-fed water
Swims: Six designated swims (room for doubles)
Kept in its natural state, La Retraite is spring-fed and rich in natural food sources, creating the perfect conditions for the carp to thrive. There are six well-spaced swims, offering anglers plenty of choice.
The lake is bordered by woodland and meadows, where you’ll spot wildlife ranging from kingfishers and lizards to roe deer and wild boar. This is not a runs water – the carp will challenge you – but with the right approach, you can be rewarded with some very special fish.
The welfare of our carp comes first – all fish must be handled with care and respect. Any mistreatment will result in immediate removal from the venue without refund.
Only single barbless or micro-barb hooks are allowed, size 4 maximum.
Minimum of 80 cm rig tubing must be used on every setup.
All hook holds and minor injuries must be treated with an appropriate carp care product (e.g., Medi-carp or Clinic).
Mainline must be monofilament only – braid is not permitted.
Hooks should be checked and changed regularly.
Rods must never be left unattended.
Supplied unhooking mats/cradles must be used at all times, and fish must not be left alone on them.
If unsure about tackle, rigs, or fish care, please ask a bailiff for advice.
No sacks or keepnets.
Maximum of three rods per angler.
Shock leaders, leadcore, permanently fixed leads, and tether rigs are not allowed.
The following rigs are banned: Ronnie, Helicopter, 360, Spinner, Zig, or any rig that allows a hook to rotate freely through 360°.
Baits: Fresh or frozen boilies only (hard hookers recommended for hookbaits). No particles, tiger nuts, peanuts, artificial/plastic baits, etc.
Please do not bring your own mats or cradles – these are supplied and must be used.
Where possible, unhook and photograph fish while in the water. Floating cradles are provided for this, and waders are required.
Always use the on-site toilets – never the surrounding bushes.
Anglers who are drunk, disruptive, or behave in an unsafe manner will be asked to leave immediately without refund.
Night fishing is permitted only from a bivvy or anglers’ cabin. Fishing is not allowed from inside the lodge accommodation.
Please treat the lake, the grounds, and the lodge with respect at all times.
Due to the septic tank system, do not flush sanitary items, wipes, kitchen roll, or similar products.
Smoking is not permitted inside the lodge.
Leave the accommodation tidy and clean before departure.
Muddy boots and dirty footwear should not be worn indoors.
Open fires are strictly prohibited in this region.
Report any damage, breakages, or faults straight away.
All rubbish must be bagged and placed in the bins provided.
Towels and bedding must remain in the lodge – please do not remove them.
Dogs may be allowed by prior arrangement, but they are not permitted on beds or furniture.
Children under 12 are only accepted with prior agreement.
| Port | Distance |
|---|