This is the second time we have had the privilege of fishing at Etang Hirondelle. This time last year the fishing was exceptional. In a 2-week period I managed to catch 72 carp with the biggest 62 lb. After a leisurely start to the fishing on Sunday morning I had a take after only 5 minutes. This resulted in a 49 lb mirror carp. 30 minutes later I had another take. This time a 41 lb grass carp. To say I was happy is a bit of an understatement. In summery by the end of 2 weeks I had caught 100 carp and 6 sturgeon. I have never experienced fishing that good. My biggest carp being 64 lb -a personal best. The sturgeon averaged 37 lb. One of the highlights was catching a 53 lb mirror carp only to have my second rod rip off. Glen was chatting in the swim at the time, so I suggested that he grabbed the rod. This he did which resulted in a 40 lb mirror carp. The fishing slowed a bit in the third week, so my total number of carp was 119 for the 3 weeks. However, during the third week I caught a 66 lb mirror carp -another new personal best. The carp all fight exceptionally well, unlike most other commercial fisheries. The sturgeon fought even more. I did not fish any nights. I had resisted walking around the lake as I hadn’t wanted to disturb the carp. Nearing the end of the holiday I ventured to the end of the lake when the sun was at its hottest. I can only say it was like visiting the Jurassic Park of Carp basking in the sun. I could only view this as fishing is not possible as no swims or access to the water is possible there. The lake is actually a mixed fishery and has a sizable head of crucian carp, pike, roach and other species. I caught a 5 lb crucian carp. Carp cradles, retainer slings, and even sun loungers are all provided. In addition to the fishing the gite and facilities were faultless. The pool is worth a dip in the hot weather. This is beginning to sound like a 5 star Amazon review. Thats because I would recommend Etang Hirondelle to couples who enjoy fishing in beautiful surroundings. Just make sure that you get up early enough to hear the bird song being drown out by the cacophony of frogs. Something I missed most days. Look out for Mr and Mrs Moorhen and their new family of chicks, and the numerous kingfishers, one of which sat on my rod for a minute or two. Thanks to Glen and Linda for an excellently well-run fishery. I am already counting the weeks down to our next visit-49 weeks to go!