Fishing in an exceptional river: the Sorgue!

On the occasion of the future opening of the fishery in April 2022, Isle sur la Sorgue Tourisme was able to meet with Yves Durand, president of the AAPPMA of L'Isle sur la Sorgue.

If fishing is also popular in our territory, it is because the Sorgue is classified as a first category fish river. It has been classified since September 2006 as a Natura 2000 zone because of its rich ecosystem and its rare species, and this, to the delight of fishermen!

This magnificent limestone river resulting from a Vauclusian-type resurgence (karst regime) offers a wonderful fishing territory stretching from Fontaine-de-Vaucluse to Entraigues-sur-la-Sorgue, passing by L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Velleron, Le Thor and Saint-Saturnin.

Isle sur la Sorgue Tourism: Yves, can you explain to us, based on your experience, which techniques are most used to fish in the Sorgue?

Yves Durand: At the beginning of April, at the end of spawning (fish breeding season), we will give preference to natural baits and lures. But, you can also fly fish, the only constraint, you must not enter the water until the grayling opens (month of May), so as not to disturb or trample the spawning grounds. Recall that this species is protected and classifies “No-Kill” throughout the department. Little by little, to the rhythm of the hatching that takes place in spring and more particularly in the month of May, we will practice fishing techniques where imitations of flies and nymphs are used in the art of dry fly fishing and sight nymph fishing.

Our territory receives visits from excellent fly fishermen, from all walks of life in France, Europe and the whole world. It is an elitist technique that is very practiced and allows the fish to be released more easily and without causing it vital injuries, provided that a landing net is used. On the upstream part, above the Partition des Eaux, a single trout cannot be preserved, with a line equipped with a single barbless hook or crushed barb.

I sle on the Sorgue Tourism: What are the interesting fishing “spots” that you could recommend to our future fishermen?

Yves Durand: All sectors are interesting. The most frequented places are Le Partage des Eaux, motocross in Souspiron, the city center and the Avenue du Partage des Eaux. These are emblematic places in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Other sectors of the upstream Sorgue are also very famous. The Chemin Noir, the Pigeolet in the commune of Saumane and the village of Fontaine de Vaucluse and all its linear downstream. The fishing grounds will depend on the volume of water present in the Sorgue. The different techniques must be adapted to these variations in levels. If rainy events take place, we can observe in the days that follow an increased activity, due to the rising waters.

Isle sur la Sorgue Tourism: We are curious to know what the typical day of a fisherman could be in our territory, can you tell us more about it?

Yves Durand: There is not really a typical day, it depends on the period, the level of the river and the weather. Most of the time, a fishing day starts early in the morning (“morning shot”), or later, just before sunset (“evening shot”). These times are usually the quietest. Because on the Sorgue, canoes and kayaks are present from 10 am to 6 pm [from April to September] and are detrimental to fishing activity, the serenity of the place and its inhabitants (humans and biodiversity). Fishermen who have taken their fishing license receive a small booklet with all the explanations necessary for the practice of fishing and the regulations in Vaucluse. Legal fishing times, catch sizes are also mentioned.

Isle sur la Sorgue Tourism: What is the average duration of a fishing session?

Yves Durand: The duration depends only on the time available to the fisherman. It is subject to schedules that change throughout the season. Sometimes, two hours of concentration are enough to make your day a success. But, we can also extend the fun all day, especially above kayak departures or in certain areas where they are less present. Other sectors are quieter and offer great sessions!

Isle sur la Sorgue Tourisme: In order to invite our readers to take part in this new activity, what do you think is the essential equipment to have when you are a beginner?

Yves Durand: The start-up investment will depend on the technique you want to practice. Our dealer the store “Le Sorguett” will be able to advise you effectively, but also offer you fishing guides. To start with the lure (hard or soft) or the English (plug), count about a hundred euros for the rod and the reel. For fly fishing, with entry-level equipment, you need to plan around 150€. The budget for lures and baits comes at an extra cost.

Of course, the fishing card is mandatory, we have the possibility to take either a card for the year, or weekly, or daily. All age groups are represented there. These cards can be acquired either online by mentioning the choice of the AAPPMA, or from our dealer the fishing store “Le Sorgue”.

We will offer more possibilities for the 2022 season near the city center, a young course for those under 12 years old. Young fishermen will be able to start in a less difficult sector than on the upstream Sorgues network. We will soon be communicating with the municipality and the fishermen about this innovative project.

Isle sur la Sorgue Tourisme: Thank you very much Mr Durand for your explanations which, we are sure, will make more than one of our readers want to start fishing!

If the experience tempts you, the Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Tourist Office will be happy to offer you fishing cards to buy on site.
Also find all the information on fishing in the Sorgue on our website.

Exchanges made with Yves Durand in January 2022.

Opening periods

Pêcher dans une rivière d'exception : la Sorgue !

Dernière mise à jour 18/08/2022


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