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Carrelet fishing is a traditional activity that is an integral part of the coastal maritime landscape.
Practiced on the coasts of Charente-Maritime, as well as in the Charente, Seudre, and Gironde estuaries, carrelet fishing is a typical activity of the region.
The Carrelets, a Common Sight along the Rivers
A carrelet is a type of square-mesh net, mounted on two hoops and suspended from a winch, operated from a pontoon.
Until the 19th century, it was considered a professional fishing tool. Today, the carrelet is part of the coastal heritage and attracts the curiosity of passers-by.
The first carrelets on pontoons appeared after the First World War. These pontoons extend to the low tide mark, allowing fishing at any time, without being dependent on the tides. They house small wooden huts that serve as shelters. An inventory of existing carrelets has even been carried out.
The net itself is suspended from a mast, lowered and raised using a winch. Carrelet fishing can be practiced in three different ways: from a pontoon or a boat, on foot, or from the parapet of a building.
Where to See the Carrelets on the Royan Coastline?
Visit the carrelets in the commune of Saint-Palais-sur-Mer. You can observe them by following the pedestrian path towards Grande Côte, starting from the Devil’s Bridge.
They appear isolated on the rocks, or they form picturesque alignments at Conche du Concié and around Puits de l’Auture.
Many carrelets were destroyed by the storms of December 1999 and February 2010. Fortunately, many of them have been rebuilt respecting traditions.
Other carrelets are visible along the Gironde estuary, such as in Meschers-sur-Gironde or Talmont-sur-Gironde.
Other sites in Charente-Maritime will allow you to enjoy these typically Charentais landscapes: Fouras-les-Bains, Port-des-Barques, or Saint-Savinien-sur-Charente.