/ 
Species present and techniques to be used
The Erdre is a mecca for carnivorous fish: pike-perch, perch, pike and catfish. The latter has become an emblematic fish of the area. Lures (soft, hard, spinnerbaits), live bait, dead fish and vertical fishing are the most popular techniques.
Bream, roach, rotengles and carp are also abundant. Fishing with jigs, feeders or spinners gives good results in the search for whitefish, especially from the banks or in boats.
Highly developed in Nantes, street-fishing allows you to target perch, pike-perch and sometimes pike by casting near barges, pontoons and other urban obstacles.
The case of catfish
Catfish fishing on the Erdre has become a leading sport, as much for the power of the fights as for the impressive size of the fish present. In fact, catfish are gradually colonizing the whole river, and every deep or crowded zone can hold some surprises.
To fish for catfish on the Erdre, target pools, bridge piers and congested areas, particularly between the Pont de la Tortière and Port la Blanche, an area renowned for its deep pools and natural hiding places, ideal for catfish. Practice with lures, either live or set, preferably early in the morning or in the evening, and prefer boat or float-tube access to the best spots.
The urban areas around Nantes also offer some beautiful spots, but access from the shore is more limited, as a boat or float-tube is often essential.
How to get there
Light boatsâeuros¯: Float tubes, kayaks and small boats enable you to reach inaccessible spots from the shore, increasing your chances of catching nice fish.
No-kill courses¯: Certain sectors, such as the Gesvres (a tributary of the Erdre), have been awarded the "âeuros¯no killâeuros¯" label, offering lure fishing passion courses that respect the fish.
Note that fishing the Erdre can be technical, especially in towns (street fishing), due to obstacles, fishing pressure and the sometimes wary behaviour of fish.
Regulations
A fishing licence is of course compulsory, and a departmental licence gives access to the Erdre, but fishing is limited to a single rod on the public domain. However, it is forbidden to fish from dams, causeways and locks, as well as 50âeuros¯m downstream from them.
The Erdre offers a varied, fish-filled environment for recreational fishing, with possibilities for all levels and techniques, making for great fishing sessions.
