Nestled in the heart of the Chamonix Valley, it's a relatively unknown, medium-sized pond that, in reality, is teeming with very large brown trout, but they possess an intelligence and a level of caution that is absolutely unmatched.
"Fishing at Lac des Praz is one of the most challenging fishing experiences I've ever had. Brown trouts are amazing but so, so cautious!"
First of all, for all lure enthusiasts, I wouldn't even recommend trying (as fishing with lures will be impossible). Here, the trout are extremely cautious, and at the slightest lure entering the water, they vanish.
In my opinion, only two techniques have proven successful:
Fly fishing
and, above all, natural bait.
Grasshopper imitations for fly fishing !
For fly fishing, I highly recommend fishing early or late in the day due to the heat, which the trout are not accustomed to.
During the summer, small terrestrial flies, such as grasshopper imitations, work well if the trout are not too alert because I get the impression that these trout often distinguish between an imitation and the real thing.
However, on some days, this fishing can be good when the big trout come into water about 50 cm deep along the shores, waiting for an insect to drown. The water is translucent year-round, and it's also for this beauty that I continue to fish there all year (even though the fish see me about three-quarters of the time).
Bait as the ultimate solution for these tough trout. !
When it comes to natural bait, only earthworms and minnows will do. Maggots or pinkie won't work because they are "not natural enough." Live grasshoppers can also be a good alternative during the August mornings when some trout come to suck up these large insects on the surface. For me, during the rest of the year, it's worms and minnows that yield good results.
Fishing with worms is quite simple. Just place your worm on the bottom with as little weight as possible and, of course, using a very thin line (around 14/100). It's a waiting game where you cast your line while staying several meters from the shore (because the trout quickly spot us).
The trout will hover over the worm several times before lowering their nose and gently picking it up from the bottom. This technique is very particular because it requires keeping a close eye on your worm on the bottom without using a float and being able to perceive the bite.
How to 'animate' your minnow effectively. ?
Two techniques are available to you:
Early in the season, using a minnow on a very light float (about 3 grams) can entice a strike, even though it remains quite rare. The retrieve should be very slow above the lake's bottom, as there is a thick carpet of algae. Once you reach the shore, slow down because the trout will follow your minnow for tens of meters before possibly deciding to take it or giving us a frustrating refusal after three consecutive casts.
Later in the year, you can fish for trout with a live minnow. This is probably the most productive method on this water. You use a float that's just slightly heavier than the minnows to keep it from sinking. It's a relatively simple technique, similar to pike fishing with live bait, but with much smaller rigs.
With this method, the minnow is free to swim, and the trout is free to strike when it desires. (If you need minnows, you can catch them in the lake using a bottle.)
"In short, fishing on Lac des Praz has its unique characteristics and trout that never cease to amaze me, but where the size of the fish is often very good."
Good to know / Where is the fishing spot ?
A fishing permit is required (from the AAPPMA du Faucigny). Please be aware that fisheries wardens are on the lookout and conduct checks. The fishing season is open from April 1st to October 15th.
How to get there? From Chamonix town center, head in the direction of Argentière. The lake is less than 10 minutes away by car. Alternatively, if you're using public transportation, take the train to the "Les Praz" stop (click on the map to enlarge).
Also to visit in the area
I live in Chamonix. I am a high-level skier at the Ski Club des Houches. I love nature and sports... let me tell you that Cham is my place! Arno asked me for my favorite spots in Chamonix in six lines. I may have gone a bit beyond, but when you love it...
Chamonix is both a bustling, typical small town and an extraordinary natural space! Here are my tips:
Hiking An absolute must! You can't miss out on the breathtaking views offered by the Mont Blanc massif. I recommend heading up to Lac de Chéserys via the Flégère cable car or taking a hike to Aiguillette des Posettes. An incredible spot slightly off the beaten path.
Food! Chamonix is also known for great food. Treat yourself after a good fishing session? Mumma (Asian cuisine) is my top pick, while Anapurna II (Indian) and Bivouac (Savoyard specialties) are also great. But my favorite remains Maison Carrier: a delightful buffet with candied raspberries, floating islands, chocolate fondant, custard, fruit coulis, and tarts, all for just 15 euros. Perfect for comforting you after an unsuccessful fishing day!
Mountain Biking A fantastic way to explore the valley playfully, cruising through different trails. If you love speed (just like me!), I highly recommend checking out the Houches area, which has some thrilling downhill bike tracks.
I would have mentioned ski spots like Grands Montets, but Arno mentioned that's not the ideal season for fishing in winter.
Enjoy your time and happy fishing in Chamonix!
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