NEWS
News from the UK and European carp fishing scene including notable captures, new holiday venues and more…
MEDIA TEAM
Join our media team and connect with our network of like minded anglers with a drive for discovery and a passion for angling adventure.
UPLOAD
Upload your media for a chance to feature with Carp Social and other third parties including social media outlets, websites and printed publications.
French Lake Success as Nathan Donovan Lands 84lb Giant at Gigantica Main Lake
Carp Social | Feature Date: 03rd June 2025
Giant from Gigantica: Monster French Carp for Nathan Donovan
When it comes to unforgettable carp fishing holidays in France, this was certainly one to remember for Nathan Donovan.
Nathan got in touch with Carp Social following a hugely successful winter session at the famous Gigantica Main Lake, one of the most iconic French carp lakes in Europe and a venue renowned for producing some of the biggest carp on the continent.
Fishing Gigantica Main Lake in January, Nathan knew bites would likely be few and far between. Winter carp fishing in France can be incredibly challenging, especially on large, pressured venues where the fish see plenty of anglers throughout the year. However, those willing to put the effort in are often rewarded with the chance of a truly special fish.
After arriving at the lake on Sunday and completing a full walk around the venue, it was time for the swim draw — always one of the most nerve-racking moments during any French carp fishing holiday.
Unfortunately for Nathan, he drew last out of the hat.
Disaster? Maybe not.
As luck would have it, one of the more productive swims on the lake was still available, so he quickly made the decision to settle in there and begin preparing for the week ahead.
Fishing to a spot at 27 wraps, Nathan introduced a carefully prepared baiting approach consisting of hemp, maize and Mainline Baits Fyber boilies. The baiting strategy included whole boilies, halves and crumb to encourage the carp to feed confidently and grub around in the area for longer periods.
Fishing Gigantica Main Lake in France
Gigantica Main Lake is widely regarded as one of the premier French carp fisheries and one of the most challenging big carp venues in Europe. The famous 35-acre gravel pit, owned by Korda Developments, has built an international reputation for producing enormous carp and attracting anglers from across the UK and Europe searching for the ultimate French carp fishing experience.
The lake is believed to hold between 700 and 850 carp, including multiple fish over 70lb and several over the magical 80lb barrier. Among its legendary residents is the “Immaculate Common”, a fish that had reached an incredible 96lb 8oz at the time of Nathan’s trip and has since gone on to be caught at a staggering 105lb in June 2025 — cementing Gigantica Main Lake’s reputation as one of the most prolific big carp venues in France and Europe.
Despite the impressive stock, Gigantica is far from easy. The fish are pressured, highly mobile and incredibly cautious, meaning successful anglers often need accurate baiting, strong watercraft and complete confidence in their approach.
The Take of a Lifetime
On Monday morning, Nathan’s alarm suddenly burst into life.
First one beep, then another… before the reel quickly melted into a full-blooded take.
As with any carp battle, especially on a venue like Gigantica, there’s always that question in the back of your mind — what exactly is on the end?
Could it be one of the smaller stock fish, or one of the lake’s true giants?
The answer soon became obvious.
As Nathan’s mate slipped the net underneath the fish, he reportedly shouted:
“I don’t know if it’s going to fit!”
Thankfully, it did.
Lying safely in the folds of the net was a carp known as “The Giggler”, a fish last reported at 61lb back in 2017 by Ali Hamidi. However, the carp had clearly piled on significant weight since then.
As the scales settled, even Danny Fairbrass — who happened to be fishing the lake at the time — was left stunned as the bailiff confirmed the fish at an incredible 84.8lb.
Not only had the carp not been caught for more than two years, but it had also gained over 23lb since its previous capture.
The giant French carp fell to a 15mm high-vis pink Tutti Frutti pop-up presented on a Multi Rig — proof that simple, confident presentations can still be devastatingly effective on pressured French carp lakes.
More Action on the French Carp Holiday
The action didn’t stop there either.
Nathan later added a 25lb common carp to his tally, keeping him on his toes throughout the session while other anglers around the lake also enjoyed success.
One notable capture came on the final night, with another angler banking a stunning 46lb common known locally as “Last Call”.
Stories like Nathan’s are exactly why carp fishing holidays in France continue to attract anglers year after year. From famous big fish venues like Gigantica Main Lake to intimate French carp lakes hidden deep in the countryside, France remains one of the ultimate destinations for serious carp anglers chasing monster fish and unforgettable memories.
Whether it’s the possibility of landing a personal best, experiencing new venues, or simply enjoying a week away surrounded by like-minded anglers, French carp fishing holidays continue to offer something truly unique.
For Nathan Donovan, this was undoubtedly a session that will live long in the memory — and proof that even in the depths of winter, French carp fishing can still produce true giants.
Compiled by Carp Social | June 2025
Disclaimer
Carp Social upholds journalistic rights to report freely, responsibly, and in accordance with UK legal standards, but disclaims any liability for errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from the use of the information provided.