La Retraite
Availability 3 Anglers
Set in the heart of the French countryside, La Retraite is a peaceful 2.5-acre carp fishing lake offering privacy, natural beauty and the chance to catch carp to over 60lb+. Catering for up to three anglers, it comes complete with a comfortable on-site lodge for two guests, making it an ideal choice for a pair of anglers or a couple looking for a relaxing fishing escape. You can also get a great feel for the venue by watching the overview video on the ‘video tab’.
The lake is located near the village of Ambernac, close to the medieval town of Confolens in the Charente region, and is around 4 hours 30 minutes from Caen ferry port. For those not wishing to drive, full tackle hire for two anglers is available, and airport collection can be arranged from Limoges, just 45 minutes away. Most UK airports offer regular flights to Limoges at very reasonable prices, with a flight time of only 90 minutes.
For non-anglers, the surrounding area is just as appealing, with quiet walking and cycling routes, birdwatching opportunities and an abundance of local wildlife to enjoy.
La Retraite itself is a spring-fed, 2.5-acre lake reaching depths of up to 7ft. Kept in its natural state, it features reed beds, lily pads and two islands, creating superb habitat for the carp and plenty of opportunities for anglers. There are six well-spaced swims around the lake, including one set on the island and accessed via a bridge. This swim is a favourite, offering coverage of around 90% of the water and giving a real edge to your fishing. Two of the swims are fitted with anglers’ cabins, perfect for day or night sessions, each with a bedchair, solar lighting and power points.
Bordered by woodland and meadows, the setting is rich in wildlife – expect to see everything from kingfishers and lizards to roe deer and wild boar during your stay. This is not a runs water, and the carp will certainly test your angling skills, but with the right approach the rewards can be very special.
A full 3 rod set up is available to hire for £200 per person for a maximum of 2 anglers. You will need to bring your own reels, alarms and terminal tackle.
Boilies and pellets are available to purchase from the lake owner for the 2026 season and beyond.
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.
General Rules
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 |
|---|---|
| Calais | 450 miles |
| Caen | 276 miles |
| St. Malo | 282 miles |
| Le Havre | 304 miles |
| Dieppe | 345 miles |
| Cherbourge | 354 miles |
| Roscoff | 368 miles |
| Dunkirk | 471 miles |
News and Catch Reports
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