Theopening of pike fishing 2025 the second most important date of the year, certainly behind that of the opening of the trout. Every year, the opening of the pike season attracts more and more fans and heralds a new season full of hope. However, there will be some changes to the regulations in 2025. Here are the key dates for the opening of the pike season, the rules to follow and our advice on how to get off to a good start.
Fishing opening dates 2025
Why set opening and closing dates for pike?
The opening and closing dates for pike fishing in 2025 are linked to its reproductive cycles. This is called Pike spawning season. Pike fishing is therefore closed for to protect this legendary fish in French waters during its breeding season. If you don't respect these pike reproduction periods, you could face heavy financial penalties. As you will have realised, not respecting this resting period will lead to a long-term decline in pike populations.
Please note, however, that the opening dates for pike fishing in 2025 can be adapted at local level. We therefore invite you to contact the AAPPMA in your department for information. This will enable you to find out the exact opening and closing dates for pike fishing in your area.
Pike fishing opens in 2025
The opening for pike fishing is always the second opening of the year. Pike fishing opens for the second time of the year. Saturday 26 April 2025, i.e. last Saturday in April 2025. Fishing for pike in 2025 will close on Sunday 26 January 2026, be the last Sunday in January 2026.
Here is some information you need to know when the 2025 pike fishing season opens:
- Pike fishing opens starts 30 minutes before sunrise
- The number of sockets can vary from 0 to a maximum of 2 pinsin accordance with local regulations
- The minimum size for catching a pike can also vary depending on the watercourse. As a general rule, it is 60 cm
Here is a summary of the dates and sizes of catches of pike and other species:
*Numerous derogations exist concerning the opening dates for fishing and catch sizes. For example, fishing is not closed in Aveyron, but reserves have been set up in places where carnivores reproduce.
Please contact your local AAPPMA.
When can we fish? Legal hours for fishing
For those of you wondering how late you can fish for pike, the law is clear. We can fish a half an hour before sunrise and an half an hour after going to bed.
The prefect may however locally authorize night fishing for certain species such as carp.
Prepare your 2025 pike season: practical advice
To get you off to a good start to the new pike fishing season, here are a few tips based on our experience:
- Fishing card Don't forget to get your fishing licence. Prices vary from €7 to €110. A mobile application is now available for presenting your dematerialised card.
- Location The best time to look for new spots is in the weeks leading up to the opening of the season. Look out for aquatic vegetation, submerged structures and changes in depth.
- Techniques : Diversify your approaches. Fishing with lures, livebait or stillbait are all effective depending on the conditions.
- Tackle Check and maintain your equipment. This is the ideal time to change your lines, sharpen your hooks and clean your reels.
- Respect for the environment Adopt a responsible attitude. Return any pike you don't want to keep to the water and make sure you don't leave any rubbish on the banks.
By following this advice and scrupulously complying with the regulations, we can all help to preserve our fish stocks. Fishing for predators is much more than just a hobby, it's a real passion that connects us to nature. So let's get ready with enthusiasm for the 2025 season, which promises to be full of excitement and great catches!
