There’s something special about packing the gear, loading the van, and setting off across the Channel in search of monster carp. Every year, thousands of anglers head for France, Croatia, Ireland, and beyond — each with their own expectations, routines, and styles of fishing. If you’re thinking about a 2026 trip or even planning ahead for 2027, here’s a look at what the journey can look like, how to prepare, and why Europe remains a paradise for carp anglers.
Getting There: Fly or Drive?
When it comes to continental carp trips, most anglers are faced with one big early question: How are we getting there?
Driving
Driving is still the most popular choice — especially for France — because you can bring your full setup: bivvy, barrow, bait, food, spare clothing, bait boats, etc. It’s the ultimate “go at your own pace” option.
If you drive, you’ll need to decide how you want to cross the Channel:
- Ferry: Slower but scenic, and gives you time to stretch your legs, grab food, or get some sleep. Ideal for anglers coming from further north or making long trips.
- Eurotunnel: Fastest crossing — just 35 minutes — and you stay with the car. Perfect if you want to get to the lakes quickly.
Before booking, it’s worth reaching out to AP Crossings — they specialise in discounted international ferry & Eurotunnel fares for anglers. Many anglers save money compared to booking direct, especially during peak carp season. You can check them out at APCrossings.com.
Flying
Flying works best for venues that provide gear hire, bait packages, and end-tackle support. It’s the fastest travel method, but less ideal if you rely on your own setup.
The Journey Through France & Europe
For many anglers, the journey is half the experience. Rolling through rural France or Croatia’s scenic countryside, stopping at bakeries for fresh bread, hunting down gas canisters at supermarkets, loading up on bottled water and treats — it’s all part of the ritual.
If you drive deeper into Europe, the scenery evolves from vineyards and wheat fields to forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife. It’s peaceful, unrushed, and often a welcome break from busy British life.
Bait — Bring Your Own or Buy on Site?
Carp anglers are creatures of habit, and bait is often personal.
Some swear by preparing their own bait in advance — soaking maize, rolling home-made boilies, mixing gooey stick mixes and crumb. Others prefer the convenience of buying bait directly from the venue.
Both approaches have their perks:
Bringing Your Own Bait
✔ Confidence in what you’re using
✔ Can tailor to your own rigs and feeding strategy
✔ Familiar smells, colours & breakdown times
Buying Bait at the Venue
✔ Saves weight and vehicle space
✔ Fresh and guaranteed to work on that venue
✔ Supports the lake owner’s management
In terms of bait preferences, you’ll see it all across Europe:
Boilies for consistency,
Maize for quantity,
Pellet for attraction and feeding spells,
with combinations often producing the best results.
What’s Your Fishing Style?
Not every carp angler travels to Europe for the same reasons — and that’s the beauty of it.
Some head out to relax:
- Bivvy up
- Watch the water
- Enjoy the countryside
- Be delighted with the odd 30, 40, or 50 slipping over the cord
Others come to hunt:
- Watching for rolling fish
- Listening through the night
- Mapping spots & feature finding
- Stalking margins and overhanging branches
- Constant watercraft and strategy
There’s no right or wrong — it’s your holiday.
Some venues offer stalking opportunities with clear margins and small bays, while others are about deep water, long-range work, or massive gravel plateaus where big carp patrol at dawn.
Food: Self-Catering or Food Packages?
Just like fishing styles, food prep varies:
🔥 Some anglers love the self-catering approach
Travel kettles, fry-ups, tins, pastas, BBQs — all part of the adventure.
🍽️ Others prefer full food packages offered by the venue:
Breakfast + evening meals, cooked fresh, delivered to the bank, BBQs, no washing up, no stress.
When you’re fishing hard, a proper plate of food at sunset can make a big difference. When you’re relaxing, frying bacon in the morning with a coffee feels just as good.
Why Fish with Angling Paradise?
Whether you’re a holiday angler or a big-fish hunter, Angling Paradise offers access to a wide variety of carp venues across France and Europe.
From tranquil private lakes perfect for group bookings, to well-stocked French carp lakes with giant commons and mirrors, to adventurous long-haul European destinations — we’ve got something to match every style.
✨ So whatever your priorities are—travel, bait, adventure, comfort, or PB hunting—you’ll find a venue that fits.
Ready to Plan Your 2026–2027 Trip?
Prime weeks go quickly, especially in spring and autumn, so booking ahead is key. Whether you’re driving, flying, relaxing, hunting, stalking, cooking, or dining, one thing’s guaranteed:
Carp fishing in Europe is unforgettable.
Start planning today — view venues & availability at:
Secure your discounted travel crossings at:
Tight lines, and here’s to an incredible 2026–2027 season! 🎣