Fishing

If you're keen to cast a line while you're in Avoriaz, you're in luck. The area is home to a variety of lakes and rivers that offer something for everyone, from relaxed lakeside angling to more adventurous mountain fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just fancy having a go, here are six spots worth exploring.

Jotty Lake

For a true taste of mountain fishing, head to Jotty Lake, perched just above the dramatic Devil’s Bridge Gorge. Its calm surroundings hide healthy stocks of fario and rainbow trout, making it a peaceful yet rewarding place to spend a few hours by the water.

The River Dranse

The River Dranse winds through Morzine and is a favourite with those who enjoy river fishing. Home to wild fario trout and lake trout from Lake Geneva, it stretches for 21km between Morzine and Thonon-les-Bains, with plenty of tributaries joining along the way.

The river is known for its wilder spots and more challenging conditions. After early summer storms, lake trout often head upstream to deeper pools, but catching one will take both patience and skill. You can use a reel, weighted line or fly-fishing technique here. Just make sure you have a valid river fishing licence.

Tavaneuse Lake

Tavaneuse Lake is tucked away at 1,805m above sea level, surrounded by meadows and rocky cliffs. It’s only accessible on foot, but it’s worth the hike for its peaceful setting and pristine waters. The lake is home to Arctic char, fario trout and minnows, and fly-fishing is especially rewarding around sunrise or sunset.

From Abondance, it’s around a two-hour walk via the Serranant alpine meadows. From Montriond, start at the lake and follow the signs towards Chalets de Lens, then up to Col de Tavaneuse, with the lake on your descent. The lake covers 2 hectares and is around 4.5 metres deep.

Lac Montriond

Set beneath dramatic cliffs and surrounded by forest, Lac Montriond is a scenic spot for a day of fishing. The lake is well-stocked with brown trout, rainbow trout, Arctic char and minnows.

Early in the season, line fishing tends to work best, while fly fishing becomes more effective as the summer goes on. A river fishing licence is required and can be bought at Ardent Sports in Montriond village or online.

Meuniers Fish Farm

This fish farm offers a great opportunity to learn more about the fish that live in the mountain waters of the region. You’ll see Arctic char, fario trout, rainbow trout and brook trout, and can find out how they’re raised.

Guided tours are available by appointment, and the fish can be purchased whole, cleaned or filleted. There are also regular fishing competitions on site, with lines, hooks and bait provided.

Mines d’Or Lake

This small artificial lake lies at the far end of the Vallée de la Manche and is surrounded by high alpine pastures. It is stocked with fario and rainbow trout, some of which reach an impressive size. All common fishing methods are allowed here. A fishing licence is required and can be bought at the nearby Mines d’Or restaurant.