Find out which fish live in Lake Geneva, the pearl nestling between France and the Swiss canton of Vaud. A veritable Alpine jewel, this lake is home to an impressive diversity of fish. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of this majestic lake to discover the species that thrive there. Whether you're an avid angler or simply curious about aquatic life, we'll tell you all about the fish living in Western Europe's largest lake.
Our article in brief:
Lake Geneva is rich in fish, making it an ideal playground for anglers. Here are some key facts about the lake and the fish it shelters.
- Emblematic species perch, perch and arctic char. They are highly prized for their culinary value.
- Carnivorous and other species trout, pike and carp
- Preservation issues These fish and the lake require sustainable resource management.
The star fish of Lake Geneva: perch, féra and arctic char
Among the fish that are emblematic of Lake Geneva, there is of course the pole. This striped fish, which can measure up to 40-50 cm and weigh up to 2.5 kg, is a local culinary gem. The spawning season runs from April to June, a time when fishermen take extra care to preserve the resource.
The perchAnother star fish of Lake Geneva is the whitefish. Measuring up to 60 cm and weighing 3 kg, this silvery fish reproduces in December. Its delicate flesh makes it a sought-after delicacy in the region's restaurants.
Thearctic charanother of Lake Geneva's flagship fish, is the king of the deep. This salmonid, which can grow to between 60 and 90 cm and weigh between 3 and 10 kg, reproduces from mid-November to mid-January. Its mottled coat and pink flesh make this fish a prime target for gourmet dishes.
Carnivorous fish and other fish to catch on Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is not just about its stars. It is also home to carnivores and other fish that contribute to the balance of the ecosystem. Here's a glimpse of this fascinating diversity:
- The trout Can grow to 80 cm and 15 kg, spawning from November to January.
- The pike Large carnivore measuring up to 1.30 m and weighing 20 kg, it breeds from February to April.
- The monkfish This deep-water creature can measure 70 cm and weigh several kilos. It appeared in the Léman as early as the 17th century, when the Entreroche canal linking the Orbe (Rhine basin) and the Venoge (Rhône basin)
- The carp Imposing with its metre length and potential weight of 30 kg, it spawns in May-June.
- The stud Small fish measuring 10-15 cm, popular with fryers.
Other species also inhabit the waters of Lake Geneva, such as roach (or vengeron), bleak, grayling and even catfish, the presence of which sometimes provokes debate among local fishermen.
| Species | Maximum size | Maximum weight | Spawning period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perch | 40-50 cm | 2-2.5 kg | April to June |
| Arctic char | 60-90 cm | 3-10 kg | Mid-November to mid-January |
| Féra | 60 cm | 3 kg | December |
| Pike | 120-130 cm | 15-20 kg | February to April |
Fishing on Lake Geneva: a major challenge
Lake Geneva's wealth of fish stocks is a major asset for the region, but it also faces some major challenges. Visit professional fishing on the lake is going through a difficult period, marked by an ageing fishing population and economic difficulties. What's more, some fish populations are in worrying decline.
Faced with these challenges, measures to sustainable management fisheries resources are put in place. Spawning periods are strictly observed to allow species to reproduce. Fishing quotas are also introduced to preserve the balance of the lake ecosystem.
As responsible fishermen, we are particularly sensitive to these issues. We strongly encourage the practice of respectful fishing and the release of the most important specimens to ensure the sustainability of populations.
The preserving biodiversity of Lake Geneva is everybody's business. Professional fishermen, amateurs and local authorities are working, or trying to work, hand in hand to guarantee a sustainable future for this exceptional natural heritage.
Lake Geneva fish at the heart of local gastronomy
The fish of Lake Geneva occupy a place of choice in the regional gastronomy.
The perch fillets are undoubtedly the star of the menu. They are usually served meunière style, accompanied by chips and a homemade tartar sauce. Arctic char, on the other hand, is often served poached or grilled, and is often enhanced by delicate sauces that bring out its fine flesh.
Less well known but just as tasty, the féra is also an emblematic fish of Lake Geneva. Smoked, it is a delight as an aperitif. Grilled, it delights the taste buds of connoisseurs.
During our travels around the lake, we had the opportunity to sample these culinary marvels. I particularly remember a meal in Yvoire, a charming medieval village, where the freshness of the fish and the skill of the chef left a lasting impression.
The gastronomy of Lake Geneva is not limited to noble fish. Gudgeon, for example, can be eaten fried, and pike in quenelles. This culinary diversity reflects the richness of the lake's ecosystem and contributes to the region's cultural identity.
When you look for fish in Lake Geneva, you soon realise that the lake is a treasure trove for anglers and gourmets alike. Its exceptional diversity of fish species, from majestic Arctic char to discreet gudgeon and emblematic perch, provides an exciting playground for anglers and an inexhaustible source of inspiration for chefs. Preserving this richness is our collective duty!
