Guide to the best deep-sea fishing destinations in France
France offers an exceptional variety of destinations for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts.
From the waters of the Mediterranean to the Atlantic to the English Channeleachregion offers something special in terms of fish species, fishing techniques and marine experiences.
In this guide, Orca Retail takes you on a discovery of the best fishing regions in France, highlighting the coastal gems, great times to fish and marine treasures you may encounter.
Before diving into the article...
If you're unfamiliar with deep-sea fishing techniques, we strongly recommend you read our dedicated article. Mastering the different fishing methods is essential to maximise your chances of success and to enjoy a rich and satisfying fishing experience.
Côte d'Azur, Mediterranean
The Côte d'Azur, caressed by the waters of the Mediterranean, is a real invitation to a deep-sea fishing adventure. With prestigious ports such as Antibes, Nice and Cannes, you're guaranteed to sail from renowned nautical bases. The best time to go is May to September, when the waters warm up and the fish move closer to the surface. Here, you'll come across some legendary predators, including bluefin tuna, swordfish, marlin and the majestic grouper. Trolling, coarse fishing and long-line fishing techniques are your allies in conquering these kings of the deep.
Brittany, Channel and Atlantic
Brittany, a proud and wild region, offers a range of seascapes to explore. Ports such as Quiberon, Belle-Île-en-Mer and the Bay of Morlaix will become your departure points into the unknown. From April to October, this region offers diverse fishing experiences for iconic species such as sea bass, bream, mackerel and pollack. Embark on lure fishing, discover coastal trolling and dive into the adventure of vertical fishing to capture these Atlantic treasures.
Gironde, Aquitaine
The waters of the Gironde, bathed in the Aquitaine sun, harbour secrets from the sea. Renowned ports such as Bordeaux, Arcachon and La Rochelle offer a warm welcome. The period from March to October is your window to unforgettable encounters with sea bass, meagre, sole and conger eel. Wade fishing, light trolling and long lining are the backdrops for your adventure in the Aquitaine region.
Corsica
Corsica, the pearl of the Mediterranean, awaits you with its characterful ports such as Ajaccio, Bastia and Porto-Vecchio. From May to October, the crystal-clear waters hide marine treasures such as bluefin tuna, swordfish, denti and pagre. Heavy trolling and bonito fishing are the keys to unlocking this rich biodiversity.
Normandy, Manche
The Normandy coasts of the English Channel are imbued with a unique atmosphere. The ports of Dieppe, Le Havre and Granville invite you to a maritime adventure from April to October. Trolling, buoy fishing and more will connect you to iconic species such as lake, sea bass, mackerel and turbot.
Tips for responsible and memorable fishing
- Scrupulously respect local regulations for minimum sizes, closed seasons and quotas.
- Think responsible fishing by releasing non-targeted or surplus fish.
- Working with local fishing guides can enrich your experience by teaching you techniques specific to the region.
- Make sure you pack all the safety equipment you need and check the weather forecast before setting sail.
Whether you're looking for sporting challenges or relaxing moments at sea, these deep-sea fishing destinations in France offer a wealth of opportunities for anglers of all abilities.
However, it is vital to preserve marine resources to ensure the sustainability of this passion for future generations. By exploring French waters, you're helping to preserve the delicate balance of our oceans and the sustainability of the unique marine ecosystems that France has to offer.
Happy responsible fishing
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