Fishing in the Serre-Ponçon valleys is not limited to the lake. Two emblematic rivers, which have given their name to the area, flow through and shape the landscape: the Avance and the Durance.
To the north, the Avance meanders discreetly between La Bâtie-Neuve and Valserres, in the heart of unspoilt countryside. A little-known river, it offers an ideal setting for anglers in search of peace and reconnection with nature.
Further south, just past the Serre-Ponçon dam, the Durance resumes its course. The river quickly regains its wild character, meandering through the magnificent Cassettes forest, a Natura 2000 site. Less tumultuous than upstream from the lake, the Durance here reveals some of the Hautes Alpes' unmissable fishing spots, nestled in an unspoilt natural setting that is sure to amaze amateurs and enthusiasts alike.
The Durance: a mythical river for fishing
The Durance is one of the most emblematic rivers in south-eastern France. It rises at an altitude of over 2,300 m in the Alps and flows for over 300 km before joining the Rhône. This river is an integral part of the natural landscape of the Serre-Ponçon valleys, downstream from the Serre Ponçon lake between Espinasses and Tallard, offering waters with varied currents, perfect for fly, toc or lure fishing enthusiasts .
The river is renowned for its abundance of fish, particularly on this stretch where the flow remains regular thanks to the Serre-Ponçon lake, offering excellent opportunities to catch trout (including brown trout) and other salmonids.
Fishing characteristics of the Durance
- 1st category watercourse: this means that whitefish and predator populations are monitored and trout and grayling are often found.
- Various types of fishing: fly fishing, bait fishing, lure fishing, sport fishing or leisure fishing.
- Majestic landscapes: anglers enjoy a wild and varied alpine environment, from open banks to wooded areas
Fishing spots on the Durance in the Serre-Ponçon valleys
Section of the Durance from Espinasses to Tallard
This section, located in the heart of the Serre-Ponçon valleys, is a popular spot for river fishing. It combines calm zones ideal for beginners and more technical spots suitable for experts. The water is generally clear and the fish are active in spring and early autumn.
Durance Fishing Guide Course details from Tallard to Remollon p 42
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© analogue -
© xavier mordefroid -
© xavier mordefroid -
© analogue -
© xavier mordefroid -
© xavier mordefroid -
© xavier mordefroid -
© xavier mordefroid
The 3 Rochebrune lakes on the banks of the Durance
The 3 Rochebrune lakes are a series of easily accessible lakes on the banks of the Durance. They offer an interesting alternative to river fishing, particularly for :
- anglers looking for calmer areas ;
- those wishing to fish for carp or carnivorous fish.
These lakes are often cited as attractive spots for families or amateurs looking for less technical fishing than the Durance.
The Rivière Avance: a wild, secret fishing spot
The Rivière Avance is a small tributary of the Durance, known for its more intimate and wild character. This winding watercourse flows through tranquil natural areas, much appreciated by anglers seeking more direct contact with nature.
In the Avance, fishing is often by fly or toc, with large populations of fario trout enjoying the cool, fast-flowing waters.
Ideal for lovers of authentic experiences, this river is a real "discovery" spot far from the most touristy areas.
Where can I buy a fishing licence for the Durance and Avance rivers?
To fish, you need a valid fishing permit adapted to local regulations.
It can be purchased :
Online on cartedepeche.fr
On site at Tabac-Presse du Barrage in Espinassesperfect for visitors who haven't planned ahead.
Fishing on vacation? Weekly and daily fishing cards are available, with preferential rates for children.
The fishing card is used in part to protect the aquatic environments in which you fish. It is valid throughout the Hautes department, with its 2,000km of waterways, 53 high-altitude lakes and 28,000ha of lakes and ponds.
Good to know :
tabac presse du barrage is also a fishing store where you can find bait, rods, nets, lines and tackle of all kinds.
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© analogueLégende -
© ambroise benard -
© Analogue production -
© analogue
Fishing regulations
Opening dates for river fishing
In the Hautes-Alpes, river fishing (on 1st category rivers such as the Durance and Avance) is open from March to the first Sunday in October. This calendar offers mountain anglers an advantage, as in other départements, fishing closes earlier.
River fishing regulations
To protect the health of fish populations, it's essential to check the regulations before you go fishing! These can be found on the website of the Hautes Alpes and Alpes de Hautes Provence fishing federations (daily catch quotas, regulatory sizes, opening periods for certain species, etc.)
Fédération de Pêche des Hautes Alpes - Fishing in the Hautes Alpes region
We therefore ask you to show courtesy to other users, pick up your litter and keep a low profile. In most cases, we recommend releasing the fish. Many of you come to enjoy this activity: a nice photo souvenir will immortalize the moment without impacting the environment. Just because a fish is big doesn't mean it has to be caught. Quite the contrary: the biggest fish are generally the best spawners. Regularly releasing your catch, taking all the necessary precautions to ensure that it returns in good condition, is a way of helping to preserve our rivers and lakes for the future.
Specific routes
In the Avance and Durance valleys, there are special courses for anglers:
Nokill de Rochebrune course
Catch-and-releasefishing is compulsory
Only artificial fly fishing is authorized, defined as fishing with a dry fly, emergent or nymph, propelled solely by the weight of the silk. The routes described are officially recognized as no-kill fishing routes. These routes are marked and easily identifiable by specific signage along the watercourse
- All fish caught must be carefully returned to the water
- Barbless hooks are mandatory and the use of landing nets is recommended.
Attractive courses
These courses are easy to access and are managed strictly for fishing purposes. They are signposted along the rivers. There is one on the Avance, two on the Durance, one on the 3 lakes and one on the Espinasses compensation lake. Access is of course open to all holders of a Hautes-Alpes fishing licence, in accordance with the usual regulations (6 trout/day/fisherman)
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