But the whole of its linear first category (and even a little more!) is to be discovered absolutely for its populations of wild farios. From the steep Tarn Gorges of Lozère to the imposing river that crosses Millau, it is a magical river for trout.
The Gorges of the Tarn
The Tarn river has its source in the department of Lozère, a territory that it crosses for about a hundred kilometers. It is here a "river of gorges", the landscapes crossed by the river are grandiose.
A diversity of profiles and courses awaits the fishermen, since the Tarn changes dimension between the small brook abounding in small trouts on its upstream part, to the imposing river populated with large specimens that it starts to become at its exit of the gorges and its entry in Aveyron.
One can for example prospect the Tarn in the surroundings of Sainte-Énimie, or towards Les Vignes. This is the tourist valley of the Gorges du Tarn, very busy in summer, with many boats going down the river. At this time of the year, it is best to fish early in the morning or in the evening, when the river is calmer. Otherwise, the beginning and end of the trout season can be excellent. As far as fishing techniques are concerned, the Tarn is ideally suited to fly fishing, with fast stretches alternating with smooth stretches suitable for dry fishing. Fishing with natural baits can also be very effective.
The Tarn towards Millau
It is at its confluence with the Jonte that the Tarn enters Aveyron. The waters become more powerful, the water veins more imposing. The chances of making nice catches increase: the sector is known to shelter magnificent specimens.
When arriving at Millau, the waters of the Dourbie river mix with those of the Tarn, and it is at this point that the river passes into second category. The downstream of Millau remains however to be discovered for the amateurs of big fish. Indeed, on these sectors cohabit wild farios which can reach beautiful dimensions, and barbels just as combative and fierce.
Tributaries of the Tarn to discover
Many tributaries of the Tarn are also richly endowed with brown trout. It is in particular the case of the Dourbie which descends from the Mont Aigoual. The Dourbie is a river known for the quality of its fishing, the downstream portion just before its confluence with the Tarn is for example excellent.
The Gorges of the Jonte are also to be visited, with or without fishing rod. This river is often difficult to access, with crowded banks. The small wild farios are deserved but are nevertheless very present.
Further downstream from the Tarn, the Dourdou de Camarès also has very good densities of wild brown trout, as does the Rance, for example in the vicinity of Belmont-sur-Rance.
Practical information
- How to get there? Millau can be a good starting point to go to several spots in the region. Located in the Aveyron, and served by the A75 highway. Millau is 120 km northwest of Montpellier.
- Other spots nearby it is possible to go up the Tarn to fish in Sainte Enimie in Lozere (1 hour drive). Lozere is to be discovered, for example for the rivers Lot, Colagne, Allier... By pushing a little further, the rivers of Ardeche are offered to the fishermen.
