How to prepare for a weeks carp fishing in France

Carp fishing in France for the week at Domaine De Goncourt requires good planning, especially if you're traveling from the UK or elsewhere. Here's a comprehensive list divided into categories to make sure you don't forget anything important:

Fishing Tackle

• Rods (2–4 carp rods, 2.75–4 lb test curve)
  
• Reels (with good line capacity)
  
• Bite alarms + receiver + spare batteries
  
• Rod pod or bank sticks + buzz bars
  
• Landing net (42" minimum) Provided on most lake
  
• Unhooking mat/cradle (Provided on most lakes)
  
• Weigh sling (Provided on most lake)
  
• Scales
  
• Carp care kit (for hook wounds, etc.)
  
• Rig wallet + pre-tied rigs
  
• End tackle (hooks, swivels, lead clips, tubing, beads, etc.)
  
• Leads (plenty of weights in various sizes)
  
• PVA bags, mesh, string
  
• Baiting tools (needles, drills, stops)
  
• Catapult, throwing stick or spod rod
  
• Marker rod + float
  
• Spod rod + spomb
  
• Bivvy or brolly system with pegs
  
• Bivvy light / head torch (extra batteries!)
  
• Line Mono only (mainline + spare) recommended 15lb to 25lb
  
• Polarized sunglasses
  
• Bait boat (not essential)
  

Bait

• Boilies (freezer ones only, can be purchased on site) — enough for a week
  
• Pop-ups / wafters
  
• Particles (maize, hemp, prepared properly, must be branded or purchased onsite)
  
• Pellets
  
• Groundbait / method mix
  
• Glugs, dips, liquids
  
• Corn (sweetcorn, fake corn)
  
• Hookbaits / wafters / fake baits
  

Camping & Living Gear

• Bedchair + sleeping bag (4-season recommended)
  
• Bivvy table
  
• Chair
  
• Cookware (gas stove, pans, utensils)
  
• Gas bottles / cartridges
  
• Kettle
  
• Lighter/matches
  
• Cool box or electric cooler
  
• Food for the week (or plan to shop locally)
  
• Water container
  
• Mugs, plates, cutlery
  
• Tea / coffee / sugar / milk (UHT or powdered)
  
• Bin bags
  
• Washing-up liquid + sponge
  
• Baby wipes / hand sanitiser
  
• Towels
  
• Head torch + spare batteries
  
• Extension lead + Euro plug adapter (some swims have power in accommodation)
  
• Power bank(s)
  
• Phone + charger
  
• First aid kit
  
• Toilet paper
  

Clothing

• Waterproofs (jacket & trousers)
  
• Warm layers
  
• T-shirts, shorts, joggers
  
• Spare clothes
  
• Hat (for sun or warmth)
  
• Boots / trainers / sliders / waders
  
• Thermal socks
  
• Gloves 

• Sunglasses (polarised)
  
• Sun cream & insect repellent
  

Documents & Essentials

• Valid Passport
  
• EHIC/GHIC card or travel insurance
  
• Fishing licence is covered by Domaine De Goncourt, needed if fishing other places.
  
• Booking confirmation from Domaine De Goncourt
  
• Driving licence
  
• Euros / bank card
  
• Mobile phone + roaming activated
  
• Maps / GPS / directions
  
• Local emergency numbers
  

Vehicle & Travel Preparation 

• Roof box or trailer if needed
  
• European car kit (hi-vis vest, triangle, headlamp adjusters, breathalyzers, etc.)
  
• Ferry or Eurotunnel booking
  
• Car insurance + breakdown cover (includes EU)
  
• Tolls / Autoroute info
  
• Check lake rules (barbless, bait restrictions, etc.)
  

Optional handy items to bring with you

• Camera or GoPro
  
• Tripod / camera arm
  
• Solar charger
  
• Books / entertainment
  
• Spare batteries
  
• Marker pens & notepad

Fishing on the bank for a week is an amazing expereice as long as you are prepared for all weather conditions, also ensuing you look after your self and fellow anglers. Stay hydrated, have plenty of food and spare clothes makes your visit to Domaine De Goncourt more enjoayble!

Please ensure you read the rules and terms well before your holiday.