FRANCE

The FNPF represents France’s extensive network of freshwater recreational fishing organisations. It brings together:

• 94 departmental federations,
• 12 regional associations and
• around 3,500 local approved associations for fishing and the protection of aquatic environments covering the entire country

With approximately 1,000 employees and 68,000 volunteers, the FNPF represents around 1.5 million anglers[1] including:

• 374,000 young people under the age of 18 and
• around 110,000 women.

Recreational fishing in French freshwater ecosystems is also estimated to contribute €2 billion annually to the French economy, including through tourism and local development. See the FNPF’s 2025 key figures and below (French only).

[1] Numbers from 2025

Protecting freshwater ecosystems is central to the FNPF’s work. Its network monitors rivers and lakes, restores habitats affected by human activities or weather conditions, supports declining fish populations and frequently provides early warnings and solutions when pollution or other damage occurs.

Through its national “Sauvons nos rivières” (“Save our rivers”) campaign, the FNPF raises awareness among both public authorities and citizens about the growing pressures on freshwater ecosystems – incl. rivers. Its successive campaigns have addressed water scarcity, the decline of migratory fish, the need for better knowledge and action, and the protection of small watercourses.