Theopening of trout fishing 2025 is one of the most eagerly awaited times of the year in a fisherman's season. For many, it marks the start of the fishing season for their favourite species. It should be noted, however, that the opening of the trout season is subject to a number of legislative rules. So as not to be caught unawares, here are the dates and rules to remember for the opening of trout fishing in 2025.
Opening dates for trout fishing 2025
What is the difference between 1st and 2nd category waters?
For novice anglers, first know that our French waters are listed in two distinguished categories. 1st category waters and 2nd category waters.
A first category river or stream is a river or stream where the majority of the fish are salmonids. These are known as trout, common shadow, char or huchon.
This type of watercourse is often referred to as " trout river "or a river dominated by salmonids. This category of watercourse has a specific opening and closing date for fishing.
A second category river or stream is a river or watercourse with a majority of cyprinids. These are white fish (roach, bleak, carp, ...) and predators (pike, pike perch and pole, black bass, catfish).
Fishing in category 2 waters is possible all year round. However, there are exceptions for certain species. In 1st category waters, the regulations are stricter. The fishing season is limited to part of the year.
Why set opening and closing dates for trout fishing?
The opening and closing dates for trout fishing in 2025 take into account the reproductive cycles of trout and salmonids in general. This is called spawning season. The closure of the fishing season is therefore there to protect trout during the breeding season. Failure to respect these trout reproduction periods during the closed season could result in financial penalties. As you will have realised, not respecting this resting period will lead to a long-term decline in fish populations.
WARNING :
Lhe opening dates for trout fishing in 2025 can be adapted locally. We therefore invite you to contact an AAPPMA in your département for more information. This will enable you to find out the exact opening and closing dates for the 2025 fishing season. at your house.
Trout fishing opens in 2025
The opening of trout fishing is the first opening of the year. It symbolises the opening of the fishing season in France. For 1st category waters (mainly populated by trout), the authorised fishing period is set at second Saturday in March, i.e. Saturday 8 March 2025. Trout fishing will close on 3rd Sunday in September, i.e. Sunday 21 September 2025.
However, the opening date for trout in mountain lakes can vary from April, May or even June, depending on the department. The same applies to some French rivers. It is therefore advisable to contact an approved fishing association in your département to find out the exact dates applicable in your area.
Here is some information you need to know for the opening of the 2025 trout fishery:
- The opening of trout fishing starts 30 minutes before sunrise
- The number of catches can vary from 0 to 10 fish according to departmental rules
- The minimum size for catching a trout can also vary depending on the watercourse. As a general rule, it is 30 cm
When can we fish? Legal hours for fishing
For those of you wondering how late you can fish for trout, you should know that you can fish up to one hour before the start of the season. 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.
Opening of fishing season for other salmonids
As with trout, salmonid fishing opens up a whole new world of possibilities. Saturday 8 March 2025 to Sunday 21 September 2025including in category 2 waters.
However, as far as migratory fish such as Atlantic salmon, sea trout and shad are concerned, specific provisions exist at the local level.
You should therefore contact your nearest AAPPMA for full details of the exact dates applicable to these species.
Reminder of the opening dates for the 2025 fishing season in France
*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.
Summary of regulations for the opening of the trout season in 2025
- 8 March 2025 : Opening of trout fishing in 1st category
- 21 September 2025 : Closure of 1st category trout fishing
- Legal catch size : 30 cm for trout
