THE PÊCHEDEX LIBRARY
Know your fish. Plan your fishing.
Identify a species, understand its habits and choose a suitable approach: practical guides to help plan your fishing trips.
159 documented species. Advice is indicative; always check local fishing rules.
159 guides available
- Freshwater
Brown trout
Salmo trutta
A trout associated with cool, oxygenated water.
Read the guide: brown trout - Freshwater
European perch
Perca fluviatilis
An opportunistic freshwater predator.
Read the guide: european perch - Freshwater
Northern pike
Esox lucius
An ambush predator.
Read the guide: northern pike - Freshwater
Pike-perch
Sander lucioperca
A predator feeding mainly on fish.
Read the guide: pike-perch - Freshwater
Largemouth black bass
Micropterus salmoides
A fish associated with calm, vegetated water.
Read the guide: largemouth black bass - Freshwater
Common carp
Cyprinus carpio
An omnivorous fish often feeding on the bottom.
Read the guide: common carp - Freshwater
Wels catfish
Silurus glanis
A large opportunistic carnivore.
Read the guide: wels catfish - Sea
European seabass
Dicentrarchus labrax
A fish of coastal waters and estuaries.
Read the guide: european seabass - Freshwater
Roach
Rutilus rutilus
An omnivorous fish of calm water.
Read the guide: roach - Freshwater
Tench
Tinca tinca
A fish of ponds and slow rivers.
Read the guide: tench - Freshwater
Barbel
Barbus barbus
A bottom-feeding fish of flowing rivers.
Read the guide: barbel - Freshwater
Chub
Squalius cephalus
An omnivore adapted to many habitats.
Read the guide: chub - Freshwater
Rainbow trout
Oncorhynchus mykiss
A salmonid native to the North American Pacific coast.
Read the guide: rainbow trout - Freshwater
Bleak
Alburnus alburnus
For bleak, depth adjustment and a delicate presentation are more useful than a long bait list. Observe where the shoal is holding, then keep a short line that is easy to control. This suggested approach lets you test the active water layer while respecting the fish and the venue.
Read the guide: bleak - Freshwater
Asp
Leuciscus aspius
Adult asp hunt small fish, sometimes in turbulence visible at the surface. Careful observation of the current comes before lure selection. Start on an accessible current seam, maintain a controlled retrieve and adjust the presentation angle; the recommendations below are suggestions, with no guarantee of triggering a strike.
Read the guide: asp - Freshwater
Freshwater bream
Abramis brama
A shoaling fish associated with muddy beds.
Read the guide: freshwater bream - Freshwater
White bream
Blicca bjoerkna
White bream may occur alongside roach and common bream. Start with a float rig whose depth has been carefully plumbed and a small bait near the bottom. A catch also allows you to compare identification features, retaining uncertainty for hybrids; the suggested fishing actions remain indicative.
Read the guide: white bream - Freshwater
Crucian carp
Carassius carassius
Crucian carp require as much attention to identification as to fishing. Their colouring may resemble other Carassius species or a young carp. To begin, explore a gap in vegetation with a float and a small bait close to the bottom; retain explicit uncertainty if the visible features are insufficient.
Read the guide: crucian carp - Freshwater
Rudd
Scardinius erythrophthalmus
A shoaling fish often near weed beds.
Read the guide: rudd - Freshwater
Gudgeon
Gobio gobio
Gudgeon fishing starts with a rig you can read in a short run near the bottom. This guide follows the catalogue identity Gobio gobio; OFB groups several gudgeon species together in some monitoring. A general observation therefore does not certify each local identification.
Read the guide: gudgeon - Freshwater
Eurasian minnow
Phoxinus phoxinus
A small shoaling fish, the minnow deserves careful observation and brief handling. A light line with a tiny bait offers an introduction to this fishing. The name Phoxinus phoxinus follows the catalogue; current knowledge distinguishes several minnow species, without automatic identification at any location.
Read the guide: eurasian minnow - Freshwater
Common dace
Leuciscus leuciscus
Dace are sought in rivers with a presentation that follows the current. A float rig helps you understand the path of small baits; fly fishing is an alternative when surface feeding appears. A good drift is built through observation, without a universal timetable.
Read the guide: common dace - Freshwater
Common nase
Chondrostoma nasus
The common nase is not a small predator: its mouth is used to graze bottom surfaces. Drifting a suitable bait close to the substrate makes more sense than choosing a range of hard-bodied swimming lures. The suggested steps remain indicative and require an understanding of the fishing stretch.
Read the guide: common nase - Freshwater
Ide
Leuciscus idus
Start searching for ide by observing slow water and feeding activity. A float rig offers a simple starting point; an insect imitation or a small lure becomes an option only when the fish’s behaviour supports it. These suggestions do not promise a catch on every river.
Read the guide: ide - Freshwater
Grayling
Thymallus thymallus
Grayling are recognised by their large dorsal fin and are often fished for with flies. Start by observing the river: a rise suggests trying a dry fly, while a nymph explores feeding below the surface. In both cases, drift and respect for gravel beds come before changing patterns.
Read the guide: grayling - Freshwater
Brook trout
Salvelinus fontinalis
Brook trout, also called brook char, is a salmonid introduced into French waters. This sheet suggests starting with natural-bait drift fishing in a river, with a lure-fishing alternative; lakes require a different search approach. Check that the species is present and read the rules before preparing the trip.
Read the guide: brook trout - Freshwater
Arctic char
Salvelinus alpinus
Arctic char calls for thinking about the whole lake and the water layer within reach, without automatically seeking the deepest point. This sheet retains Salvelinus alpinus as the catalogue identity; some references also use Salvelinus umbla for European populations. Fishing approaches require adaptation to the particular French lake.
Read the guide: arctic char - Freshwater
Lake trout
Salvelinus namaycush
Lake trout, called cristivomer in France and touladi in Québec, is a lake-dwelling char native to North America. In France, fishing for it concerns lakes where its presence must be confirmed. Gradual lure fishing allows you to compare water layers; this starting approach is indicative, without an ideal depth or a supposedly universal list of sizes.
Read the guide: lake trout - Sea
Gilthead seabream
Sparus aurata
For gilthead seabream, focus above all on careful presentation near the bottom. A securely attached natural bait, an untangled line and careful reading of bites provide a more useful foundation than multiplying rigs. This sheet suggests starting with bottom fishing, adapted to the spot and the French rules for the area.
Read the guide: gilthead seabream - Sea
Black seabream
Spondyliosoma cantharus
Black seabream, also known in French as griset or canthare, calls for attentive fishing near the bottom. Start with a simple bait rig whose depth and contacts you can control. The aim is to understand the presentation; the number of bites alone does not establish that this species is present.
Read the guide: black seabream - Sea
White seabream
Diplodus sargus
This guide covers Mediterranean white seabream, Diplodus sargus. It suggests presenting bait near a rocky margin from a safe position, using a float to control the drift. Rig choices are suggestions; they do not replace checking access, sea conditions and local rules.
Read the guide: white seabream - Sea
Atlantic mackerel
Scomber scombrus
Atlantic mackerel are open-water fish: finding a shoal and its depth matters more than leaving a rig on the bottom. A single metal lure offers a simple start and limits handling. Seasons provide biological context; they do not define permitted catches.
Read the guide: atlantic mackerel - Sea
Pollack
Pollachius pollachius
Pollack are sought around coastal structure and large seaweeds, using a lure whose descent and upward retrieve are controlled. The first aim is to pass near the useful area without snagging. This starting method is a suggestion; depth, drift and local presence require actual observation.
Read the guide: pollack - Sea
Saithe
Pollachius virens
Saithe are not sought in quite the same way as fish holding close to one rock. Their shoaling, open-water life suggests finding an active layer and then repeating the lure’s path. Young fish may inhabit the coast; encountering a small saithe does not prove an adult shoal is in the same place.
Read the guide: saithe - Sea
Atlantic cod
Gadus morhua
Atlantic cod is approached here near the bottom with a simple bait rig that can be kept under control. This guide concerns France’s northern coasts; it does not promise its presence in every harbour. Before a trip, establish the local context and how you will land a fish.
Read the guide: atlantic cod - Sea
Garfish
Belone belone
Garfish draw attention with their long beak and slim outline near the surface. For a first attempt, bait suspended below a float lets you observe the drift and contacts. Keep the approach simple: visible hunting does not mean a violent strike or more hooks will improve the presentation.
Read the guide: garfish - Sea
Thicklip grey mullet
Chelon labrosus
Thicklip grey mullet mainly call for careful observation of fish that are actually feeding. A small bread presentation beneath a float is the suggested starting point. A visible shoal may remain indifferent to the bait: understanding the drift is better than chasing the fish whenever they move.
Read the guide: thicklip grey mullet - Sea
Ballan wrasse
Labrus bergylta
Ballan wrasse are sought around rocks and seaweed without having to bury the rig in crevices. A bait under a float lets you begin while controlling depth. Soft lures offer an alternative; choosing the spot and a route to the landing net remains the priority.
Read the guide: ballan wrasse - Sea
Atlantic horse mackerel
Trachurus trachurus
Look for horse mackerel at the right level in the water using a short feather rig. Watch for bites, keep free hooks under control and prepare to unhook the fish before bringing it up.
Read the guide: atlantic horse mackerel - Sea
European conger
Conger conger
Prepare to land a conger eel before casting a bait rig to fish on the bottom. A bite-resistant leader, long pliers and safe access are necessary; abandon a spot you cannot control.
Read the guide: european conger - Sea
Meagre
Argyrosomus regius
Present a shad near the bottom from a controlled drift. These settings are suggestions requiring local adjustment; organise navigation and landing the fish before seeking meagre.
Read the guide: meagre - Sea
Whiting
Merlangius merlangus
Look for whiting with bait near the bottom and keep the line attended. Start simply, check every presentation and reassess the fishing if small catches keep recurring.
Read the guide: whiting - Sea
European flounder
Platichthys flesus
Try soft-bottomed estuary margins with a worm near the bottom. An accessible, stable presentation matters more than a long cast; the approach remains indicative.
Read the guide: european flounder - Sea
European plaice
Pleuronectes platessa
Search for plaice with a worm close to soft bottom during a short, controlled drift. Keep the rig’s behaviour readable and compare the features of every flatfish.
Read the guide: european plaice - Sea
Common sole
Solea solea
Present a worm over soft bottom with an attended line. Low light is a clue for sole, provided you have first checked a safe access route.
Read the guide: common sole - Sea
Turbot
Scophthalmus maximus
Try a strip of fish near the bottom during a slow drift from which the rig can be retrieved. Avoid concentrations of small coastal turbot and prepare how you will handle them before fishing.
Read the guide: turbot - Sea
Common dab
Limanda limanda
Seek dab with worms over sand or gravel. Keep the presentation low and easy to read; the Irish variants are suggestions, without transferring Irish regulations to France.
Read the guide: common dab - Sea
Surmullet
Mullus surmuletus
Present a small piece of worm close to soft bottom without entering rock crevices. This indicative approach for striped red mullet still needs local review.
Read the guide: surmullet - Sea
Sand steenbras
Lithognathus mormyrus
Striped seabream invite you to read a beach rather than always cast farther. This guide suggests comparing a few presentations over sand, then retaining what you actually observe.
Read the guide: sand steenbras - Sea
Red porgy
Pagrus pagrus
When searching for red porgy, controlling the line near rocks matters more than lowering a heavy rig blindly. The suggestions below favour a controlled presentation and careful identification.
Read the guide: red porgy - Sea
Common pandora
Pagellus erythrinus
Here, common pandora are sought over open bottoms with a bait rig that is easy to control. The priority is to detect contacts and distinguish pink seabream species before recording a catch.
Read the guide: common pandora - Sea
Sharpsnout seabream
Diplodus puntazzo
Sharpsnout seabream are sought here at the edge of rocks, with a presentation that remains retrievable. Identification requires more than simply comparing stripes.
Read the guide: sharpsnout seabream - Sea
Common two-banded seabream
Diplodus vulgaris
The two bands of two-banded seabream help identify it. To seek it, a float rig is used here to compare different depths along an open margin.
Read the guide: common two-banded seabream - Sea
Annular seabream
Diplodus annularis
Annular seabream are more than just small seabream to count: their markings and association with seagrass call for a dedicated approach. This guide suggests a light presentation along a clear edge.
Read the guide: annular seabream - Sea
Golden grey mullet
Chelon auratus
Golden grey mullet require careful identification and observation of the available food. This guide favours a discreet coastal approach, without promising that all mullet accept bread.
Read the guide: golden grey mullet - Sea
Thinlip grey mullet
Chelon ramada
Thinlip grey mullet link marine, brackish and sometimes river habitats. A controlled presentation in accessible current provides the starting point here, with identification kept distinct from golden grey mullet.
Read the guide: thinlip grey mullet - Sea
Flathead grey mullet
Mugil cephalus
Flathead grey mullet have a characteristic head and inhabit varied environments. This sheet suggests observing a lagoon margin before deciding where to place a bait, without automatically applying methods used for other mullets.
Read the guide: flathead grey mullet - Sea
Saddled seabream
Oblada melanura
Saddled seabream invite you to look at open water above rocks rather than only at the bottom. A float drift is used here to compare depths without repeatedly passing through the shoal.
Read the guide: saddled seabream - Sea
Mediterranean horse mackerel
Trachurus mediterraneus
When looking for Mediterranean horse mackerel, think first about the level in the water. A shoal may pass near the bottom or beneath the surface. This guide suggests a light approach inspired by horse-mackerel fishing reports in general; these practices are not specific trials for Trachurus mediterraneus.
Read the guide: mediterranean horse mackerel - Sea
Rainbow wrasse
Coris julis
Mediterranean rainbow wrasse are sought with a small morsel presented well near rocks or seagrass. The challenge is to see the bites and keep the bait accessible, rather than add more hooks. The approach below cautiously adapts a practice used for fishing rocky-bottom species.
Read the guide: rainbow wrasse - Sea
Painted comber
Serranus scriba
Painted comber are small inshore predators. First observe the transition between shelter and open water, then present bait without losing the line in the structure. This natural-bait approach is a suggestion; it distinguishes documented biology from a rig proposed for beginners.
Read the guide: painted comber - Sea
Comber
Serranus cabrilla
Comber occur on rocky structure and are caught notably by bottom fishing with bait. To start, seek a controlled presentation at the edge of shelter. The biology and use of this fishing approach are documented; the simple rig described here remains a suggestion to adapt to the area.
Read the guide: comber - Sea
Bogue
Boops boops
When looking for bogue, do not restrict yourself to the bottom. Observe the shoal and test presentation height with a small bait. The float rig is an exploration suggestion; the sources consulted mainly support identification, diet and the use of worms as bait.
Read the guide: bogue - Sea
Salema
Sarpa salpa
Adult salema graze on plants; a small-predator lure strategy is therefore not the starting point chosen here. Bread beneath a light float is an approach described by an angling author. Observe the shoal, present gently and adjust the drift rather than casting repeatedly.
Read the guide: salema - Sea
Pouting
Trisopterus luscus
To look for common pouting, locate shelter close to a workable bottom, then offer a small bait. The rig presented simplifies a surfcasting account to make initial observations easier. It promises neither catches in series nor a permanent presence at the spot.
Read the guide: pouting - Sea
Tub gurnard
Chelidonichthys lucerna
Tub gurnard search for prey over soft bottoms. To begin, offer bait near the substrate rather than aiming for rocky holes. The trailing-hook presentation is a starting point drawn from worm-fishing practices; its settings need confirmation in the area.
Read the guide: tub gurnard - Sea
Small-spotted catshark
Scyliorhinus canicula
Small-spotted catshark are sought with bait near soft bottoms. Before casting, prepare above all for unhooking: this small shark can twist and its skin is abrasive. The suggested method simplifies a surfcasting account; whether it may be retained depends on local rules, never merely on its apparently common nature.
Read the guide: small-spotted catshark - Freshwater
European whitefish
Coregonus lavaretus
Whitefish are often sought with a multi-nymph rig known in French as a gambe. The aim is to present at the right depth and read a sensitive rod tip. Lavaret remains the catalogue name; populations grouped under local names such as féra or corégone require cautious identification.
Read the guide: european whitefish - Sea
European pilchard
Sardina pilchardus
A small schooling marine fish of open water, the sardine must be distinguished from other silvery fish. Feathered hook lines are scientifically documented; their presentation remains an indicative adaptation subject to French rules.
Read the guide: european pilchard - Sea
European anchovy
Engraulis encrasicolus
A small shoaling pelagic fish, distinct from the sardine. This sheet covers identification and documented incidental rod-and-line encounters; it does not propose a targeted anchovy recipe.
Read the guide: european anchovy - Sea
Atlantic herring
Clupea harengus
Herring are small pelagic fish whose shoals do not stay at one fixed spot. This guide provides identification and coastal-observation pointers, followed by an adaptation of the hook-train method described by the Danish federation. This foreign context establishes neither a season nor permission for a French harbour.
Read the guide: atlantic herring - Sea
Atlantic chub mackerel
Scomber colias
The name “mackerel” may cover several species. Before transferring a technique or rule, check the belly markings and the whole profile. This guide distinguishes Scomber colias from Atlantic mackerel and proposes a sabiki adaptation from the Italian CNR manual, which documents the two species together. This context does not establish French permission.
Read the guide: atlantic chub mackerel - Sea
Spotted seabass
Dicentrarchus punctatus
A small coastal seabass with dark spots.
Read the guide: spotted seabass - Sea
Brill
Scophthalmus rhombus
For brill, start over retrievable sand with bait near the substrate. Ireland’s Galway guide associates flatfish, including brill, with worms and fish baits. The proposed approach is an indicative adaptation, without a guaranteed capture calendar.
Read the guide: brill - Sea
Lemon sole
Microstomus kitt
A North Atlantic flatfish with a small mouth.
Read the guide: lemon sole - Sea
Red mullet
Mullus barbatus
Red mullet searches soft bottoms with its barbels. The bottom-dragging method described by Laurent Duclos provides a practical approach; the scientific CNR-IRBIM manual confirms natural bait, notably polychaete worms, for both red mullet species.
Read the guide: red mullet - Sea
European hake
Merluccius merluccius
European hake are mainly encountered offshore. Bait fishing from a suitable boat requires a controlled descent and preparations for landing before fishing; this suggestion adapts an Irish account, not a universal recipe for France.
Read the guide: european hake - Sea
Haddock
Melanogrammus aeglefinus
Haddock feed near the bottom. A small shellfish bait and a simple line offer a starting point for reading contacts; this approach adapts Irish practices and requires local adjustment.
Read the guide: haddock - Sea
John dory
Zeus faber
John Dory is a predator with a deep, flattened body, recognisable by its dark spot and protrusible mouth. A slow soft-lure approach and landing with a net are documented.
Read the guide: john dory - Sea
Red gurnard
Chelidonichthys cuculus
Red gurnard explore the bottom with free pectoral rays. Bait fishing close to the substrate can be tried as an adaptation of mixed-species angling; it is not a targeted protocol validated on every coast.
Read the guide: red gurnard - Freshwater
Ruffe
Gymnocephalus cernua
Ruffe may occur among float-fishing catches. Identify it before handling its spines. The suggested worm presentation is an indicative adaptation for a venue where it is permitted.
Read the guide: ruffe - Freshwater
Burbot
Lota lota
An elongated, mottled freshwater fish associated with cool waters, Lota lota has a chin barbel. A French federation documents fishing for it with a worm on the bottom; a more detailed Swiss protocol is presented with its geographical limits and the necessary local checks.
Read the guide: burbot - Freshwater
Prussian carp
Carassius gibelio
An often silvery Carassius, very similar to goldfish; a photograph may remain inconclusive.
Read the guide: prussian carp - Freshwater
Goldfish
Carassius auratus
Goldfish include ornamental forms; in the wild their colour may be subdued.
Read the guide: goldfish - Freshwater
Grass carp
Ctenopharyngodon idella
Grass carp is an introduced Asian fish, mainly herbivorous as an adult. Bottom fishing with plant baits is documented by the University of Zagreb and corroborated by federation sources. Its use in a French water body requires checking the venue and its instructions; this guide authorises no stocking or translocation.
Read the guide: grass carp - Freshwater
Silver carp
Hypophthalmichthys molitrix
An introduced Asian fish that filters food particles. The practical scope of this sheet is Hungarian: an indicative adaptation of collective methods targeting “busa”, silver carp, bighead carp and hybrids. It does not certify every capture as pure Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and provides no French authorisation.
Read the guide: silver carp - Freshwater
Belica
Leucaspius delineatus
Sunbleak is a small silvery fish of calm water, distinct from bleak. The Mayenne federation describes a fine pole-fishing method; it remains indicative and subject to local rules.
Read the guide: belica - Freshwater
Schneider
Alburnoides bipunctatus
A small river fish favouring flowing water.
Read the guide: schneider - Freshwater
Pumpkinseed
Lepomis gibbosus
Pumpkinseed is a North American fish introduced to Europe. Observing it helps identify a regulated alien species; this sheet proposes neither live transport nor use as bait.
Read the guide: pumpkinseed - Freshwater
Black bullhead
Ameiurus melas
The catalogue’s black bullhead is Ameiurus melas, a North American species introduced and regulated in Europe. Identifying a catch does not remove the need to check its handling; no live transport or release instruction is proposed.
Read the guide: black bullhead - Freshwater
Stone moroko
Pseudorasbora parva
Topmouth gudgeon is a small Asian fish introduced to Europe and subject to restrictions on alien species on the Union list. This sheet prioritises identification and preventing its spread.
Read the guide: stone moroko - Freshwater · Sea
European smelt
Osmerus eperlanus
European smelt is Osmerus eperlanus, a small silver fish of coastal waters, estuaries and some lakes. Its name must not group together capelin and small cod-family fish; a local French fishing protocol remains to be documented. The practical scope here is an attributed Danish example, subject to access and local protections; it does not provide a French fishing calendar.
Read the guide: european smelt - Sea
Red scorpionfish
Scorpaena scrofa
A large bottom-dwelling, camouflaged and spiny scorpionfish, distinct from other red scorpionfish.
Read the guide: red scorpionfish - Sea
Black scorpionfish
Scorpaena porcus
A bottom-dwelling, camouflaged scorpionfish, often motionless; prevent contact with the spines.
Read the guide: black scorpionfish - Sea
Small red scorpionfish
Scorpaena notata
A small bottom-dwelling scorpionfish with difficult identification; do not touch its spines.
Read the guide: small red scorpionfish - Sea
Greater weever
Trachinus draco
Greater weever can be targeted with a jig near a sandy bottom. This approach adapts advice from Guillaume Fourrier; prepare unhooking before lowering the lure.
Read the guide: greater weever - Sea
Lesser weever
Echiichthys vipera
A small buried coastal fish with venomous spines.
Read the guide: lesser weever - Sea
East Atlantic peacock wrasse
Symphodus tinca
A robust Mediterranean wrasse with variable colours.
Read the guide: east atlantic peacock wrasse - Sea
Ornate wrasse
Thalassoma pavo
A slender coastal wrasse with blue reticulation on its head.
Read the guide: ornate wrasse - Sea
Common dentex
Dentex dentex
Morgan Calu documents searching for common dentex with a shad from a boat. Start on a controllable drift and prepare to land the fish; this suggestion does not guarantee its presence.
Read the guide: common dentex - Sea
Atlantic bonito
Sarda sarda
Atlantic bonito can be sought by casting at identified surface activity. This suggestion adapts Nicolas Borreau's account; it remains indicative and requires a permitted position and prepared landing arrangements.
Read the guide: atlantic bonito - Sea
Greater amberjack
Seriola dumerili
Greater amberjack is a powerful open-water predator. An approach with a jig from a suitable boat is suggested indicatively after Laurent Duclos; prepare navigation and landing before searching.
Read the guide: greater amberjack - Sea
Bluefish
Pomatomus saltatrix
Bluefish is a coastal predator with cutting teeth. The suggested lure approach adapts Laurent Duclos indicatively; the leader and landing tools must be ready before the first cast.
Read the guide: bluefish - Sea
Common dolphinfish
Coryphaena hippurus
Common dolphinfish is a pelagic fish of warm waters. This sheet describes Coryphaena hippurus; it does not transfer methods from tuna or from the other dolphinfish species.
Read the guide: common dolphinfish - Sea
Yellowmouth barracuda
Sphyraena viridensis
Yellowmouth barracuda is distinct from European barracuda. The long-jerk approach here adapts Francesco Curreli’s practice and remains indicative.
Read the guide: yellowmouth barracuda - Sea
European barracuda
Sphyraena sphyraena
European barracuda has scales on its preopercle. The proposed plug-fishing approach adapts a cast-and-retrieve method described for this species by Guillaume Fourrier.
Read the guide: european barracuda - Sea
Leerfish
Lichia amia
Leerfish is a coastal predator with a strongly sinuous lateral line. The proposed surface approach adapts practices from Cyril Gressot and Fabien Fernandez and guarantees no catch.
Read the guide: leerfish - Sea
Albacore
Thunnus alalunga
Albacore is Thunnus alalunga, with very long pectoral fins. The trolling approach is an indicative adaptation of documented practices; the old Irish account proves no current permission in Ireland or France. In French Mediterranean waters, the order of 8 July 2025 establishes a 3-year moratorium for this species from its publication on 17 July 2025: recreational fishing is prohibited, including catch and release. An accidental catch must be reported within 48 hours. This text grants no permission on the Atlantic coast; check the rules in force before any trip.
Read the guide: albacore - Sea
Axillary seabream
Pagellus acarne
A slender silvery-grey sparid with pink reflections.
Read the guide: axillary seabream - Sea
Blackspot seabream
Pagellus bogaraveo
A bottom-associated sparid with large eyes, also known as blackspot seabream.
Read the guide: blackspot seabream - Sea
Sand sole
Pegusa lascaris
A flatfish of the sole family with both eyes on the right side.
Read the guide: sand sole - Sea
Grey gurnard
Eutrigla gurnardus
A grey to grey-green gurnard with a pearly white belly.
Read the guide: grey gurnard - Sea
Ling
Molva molva
Common ling is an elongated fish of rocky bottoms. Irish sources confirm boat angling for it, but this biological sheet does not recommend deep-water capture without a local protocol for landing and managing catches.
Read the guide: ling - Sea
Blue ling
Molva dypterygia
Blue ling is a bottom-dwelling species distinct from common ling. Its deep habitat is a biological fact, not an invitation to transfer rigs or release instructions from another species.
Read the guide: blue ling - Sea
Forkbeard
Phycis phycis
Forkbeard inhabits dark shelters and searches for food at night. These facts concern Phycis phycis; no deep-water fishing protocol is inferred from those for greater forkbeard.
Read the guide: forkbeard - Sea
Greater forkbeard
Phycis blennoides
Greater forkbeard is a Phycis associated particularly with sandy and muddy bottoms. Phycis blennoides is distinct from forkbeard; its recorded depths are not a recommended fishing programme.
Read the guide: greater forkbeard - Sea
Megrim
Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis
Megrim is a flatfish with both eyes on the left side, associated with soft bottoms on the continental shelf and slope.
Read the guide: megrim - Sea
Anglerfish
Lophius piscatorius
White anglerfish is a bottom predator with a very broad head and a fishing filament. It is distinct from black-bellied anglerfish.
Read the guide: anglerfish - Sea
Blackbellied angler
Lophius budegassa
Black-bellied anglerfish is a benthic predator resembling white anglerfish. Identification relies on several features rather than the common name “monkfish” alone.
Read the guide: blackbellied angler - Sea
Wreckfish
Polyprion americanus
Wreckfish is a robust fish whose adults live close to the bottom, while juveniles may inhabit open water.
Read the guide: wreckfish - Sea
Undulate ray
Raja undulata
A marbled ray with wavy markings; recreational fishing for it is prohibited in ICES divisions VIII a and VIII b. Other areas require their own checks.
Read the guide: undulate ray - Sea
Thornback ray
Raja clavata
A diamond-shaped ray recognisable by the large buckler thorns on its back.
Read the guide: thornback ray - Sea
Spotted ray
Raja montagui
A small dark-spotted ray whose disc margin is free of these spots.
Read the guide: spotted ray - Sea
Blonde ray
Raja brachyura
A beige to light-brown ray whose small dark spots reach the edge of the disc.
Read the guide: blonde ray - Sea
Nursehound
Scyliorhinus stellaris
Nursehound is a bottom-dwelling shark distinct from small-spotted catshark. Fish baits over rocky ground are documented; its abrasive skin and teeth require prepared landing.
Read the guide: nursehound - Sea
Starry smooth-hound
Mustelus asterias
Starry smooth-hound is a demersal shark whose pale spots may be faint or absent. Accounts using only the name “smooth-hound” do not prove a catch of Mustelus asterias.
Read the guide: starry smooth-hound - Sea
Smooth-hound
Mustelus mustelus
Common smooth-hound is a taxon distinct from starry smooth-hound. An unspotted body does not confirm Mustelus mustelus; this sheet preserves uncertainties in identification and distribution.
Read the guide: smooth-hound - Sea
Swordfish
Xiphias gladius
Swordfish is a large pelagic fish. In French Mediterranean waters, the order of 8 July 2025 prohibits recreational fishing for it, including catch and release, during the prescribed moratorium; this sheet proposes no targeted fishing.
Read the guide: swordfish - Freshwater · Sea
Twaite shad
Alosa fallax
Twaite shad migrates between sea, estuary and river. Its fishing is subject to restrictive basin-specific rules; this guide recommends no technique or targeted trip. The order of 5 May 2026 also prohibits fishing for it in freshwater in Pyrénées-Atlantiques during 2026, including catch-and-release angling.
Read the guide: twaite shad - Freshwater · Sea
Allis shad
Alosa alosa
Allis shad grows at sea before ascending rivers to reproduce. Its eggs and some spawning habitats are subject to protection; fishing is heavily restricted depending on the basin. No capture method is recommended here. The order of 5 May 2026 also prohibits fishing for it in freshwater in Pyrénées-Atlantiques during 2026, including catch-and-release angling.
Read the guide: allis shad - Freshwater · Sea
European eel
Anguilla anguilla
European eel reproduces at sea after growing in fresh or brackish water. Different stages and habitats are subject to different rules; in Seine-Normandie, recreational sea fishing is prohibited at every stage. No technique is recommended here. For the 2025–2026 season, the Deux-Sèvres prefecture reports a freshwater recreational closure on 31 July 2026, without extending an earlier local opening; check any earlier closure. In Gard, the 2026 order closes glass-eel fishing throughout the year and likewise closes yellow- and silver-eel fishing, subject to the specific authorisations indicated for the latter two stages; this departmental framework does not describe other basins.
Read the guide: european eel - Freshwater · Sea
Atlantic salmon
Salmo salar
Atlantic salmon alternates between river and sea during its life. Fishing is prohibited under the Seine-Normandie 2026–2027 framework and restricted elsewhere; this guide recommends no targeted fishing. The order of 5 May 2026 also prohibits fishing for it in freshwater in Pyrénées-Atlantiques during 2026, including catch-and-release angling.
Read the guide: atlantic salmon - Freshwater
Mediterranean barbel
Barbus meridionalis
A small mottled barbel from streams in southern France, Barbus meridionalis differs from common barbel. The methods below are documented by federation sources and an identified practitioner; their use remains subject to local rules and protection of eggs and the relevant habitats.
Read the guide: mediterranean barbel - Freshwater
Vairone
Telestes souffia
A small fish of flowing water with a violet stripe along its sides.
Read the guide: vairone - Freshwater
European bitterling
Rhodeus amarus
A small deep-bodied fish whose reproduction depends on freshwater mussels.
Read the guide: european bitterling - Freshwater
French nase
Parachondrostoma toxostoma
A river fish with a conical snout and curved downward-facing mouth.
Read the guide: french nase - Freshwater
Languedoc gudgeon
Gobio occitaniae
Languedoc gudgeon is a species described in 2005, distinct from common gudgeon and Lozano's gudgeon. Identification based only on the river basin or the name “gudgeon” remains insufficient.
Read the guide: languedoc gudgeon - Freshwater
Pyrenean gudgeon
Gobio lozanoi
Lozano's gudgeon corresponds to Gobio lozanoi, a species distinct from Gobio gobio. Findings from an Iberian population or another gudgeon do not automatically describe all Adour populations.
Read the guide: pyrenean gudgeon - Sea
Atlantic bluefin tuna
Thunnus thynnus
Atlantic bluefin tuna is a highly migratory fish. Recreational fishing for it requires specific authorisations and follows annual rules; a catalogue entry permits neither targeting nor retention. The practical example below is limited to the CRRF in English waters, on a vessel holding an MMO permit and with the required trained person aboard. It provides neither French authorisation nor self-directed training in handling the fish.
Read the guide: atlantic bluefin tuna - Freshwater
Huchen
Hucho hucho
A large salmonid of the Danube basin. This account presents a fly-fishing example under a special C&R permit in Slovenia, on Sava Bohinjka 3; ZZRS rules and the stated closure remain decisive.
Read the guide: huchen - Freshwater
Marble trout
Salmo marmoratus
A trout of cold Adriatic-basin waters. The angling example here concerns fly fishing under Tolmin’s C&R permit on the Soča in Slovenia; it distinguishes reported practices from the venue’s own rules.
Read the guide: marble trout - Freshwater
Vendace
Coregonus albula
A small pelagic salmonid of northern European lakes. This knowledge sheet distinguishes English vendace, named Coregonus albula in official sources and protected against intentional taking, from Finnish fishing practices; no targeted fishing is proposed in England.
Read the guide: vendace - Freshwater
Volga pikeperch
Sander volgensis
A percid of Ponto-Caspian basins.
Read the guide: volga pikeperch - Freshwater
Blue bream
Ballerus ballerus
Blue bream is a plankton-feeding leuciscid of large rivers. This sheet concerns identification and protection in Upper Austria, where the general rules protect it throughout the year; no targeted fishing is proposed.
Read the guide: blue bream - Freshwater
White-eye bream
Ballerus sapa
White-eye bream is a leuciscid of large Eurasian rivers. This sheet concerns identification and protection in Upper Austria, where the general rules protect it throughout the year; methods named in Lower Austria are not transferred.
Read the guide: white-eye bream - Freshwater
Vimba bream
Vimba vimba
A leuciscid of European rivers.
Read the guide: vimba bream - Freshwater
Sichel
Pelecus cultratus
Sichel is a pelagic Eurasian leuciscid. This sheet covers identification and protection under the general rules of Upper Austria, where it is protected throughout the year; no targeted fishing is proposed.
Read the guide: sichel - Freshwater
Italian barbel
Barbus plebejus
A barbel of the Adriatic basin.
Read the guide: italian barbel - Freshwater
Italian nase
Chondrostoma soetta
An Adriatic leuciscid with a horny lip.
Read the guide: italian nase - Freshwater
Italian riffle dace
Telestes muticellus
Italian freshwater fish; documented hybridisation with Telestes souffia.
Read the guide: italian riffle dace - Freshwater
Iberian barbel
Luciobarbus bocagei
Barbel of Iberian Atlantic river systems.
Read the guide: iberian barbel - Freshwater
Iberian long-snout barbel
Luciobarbus comizo
Iberian barbel; large adults mainly eat fish.
Read the guide: iberian long-snout barbel - Freshwater
Ebro barbel
Luciobarbus graellsii
Iberian barbel inhabiting middle and lower river reaches.
Read the guide: ebro barbel - Freshwater
Andalusian barbel
Luciobarbus sclateri
Southern Iberian barbel with long barbels.
Read the guide: andalusian barbel - Freshwater
Iberian nase
Pseudochondrostoma polylepis
Schooling fish of Iberian rivers.
Read the guide: iberian nase - Freshwater
Northern straight-mouth nase
Pseudochondrostoma duriense
Schooling river fish of northwestern Iberia.
Read the guide: northern straight-mouth nase - Freshwater
Ebro nase
Parachondrostoma miegii
Spanish river fish feeding on diatoms.
Read the guide: ebro nase - Freshwater
Southern Iberian chub
Squalius pyrenaicus
Fish of Iberian streams with Mediterranean flow regimes.
Read the guide: southern iberian chub - Freshwater
Northern Iberian chub
Squalius carolitertii
Iberian river fish with a subterminal mouth.
Read the guide: northern iberian chub