Location, Location, Location. The mantra from the real estate industry is just as important regarding fishing lakes. You can have all the best equipment, the very best bait, but a poor location can hamper your chance of the perfect big catch.
Most locations have the views, the peace and the fish, but you need to do your research to get the best from your fishing trips.
What fish populations are there? Do you need a licence? Are there any restrictions? Research failure could doom you to a failed fishing trip.
The UK is awash with great fishing lakes, but we have put together a list of our favourites in no particular order.
HORSESHOE LAKE, GLOUCESTERSHIRE
Horseshoe Lake is named because of its’ shape. Spanning 62 acres, it attracts 100s of anglers every year. With a large population of tench, rudd, bream, roach and pike, you can guarantee an entertaining fishing experience. However, the big draw is anglers looking for a big carp for which the lake is famous. There is a restriction to fish here as you must be a full member of The Carp Society.
Membership of The Carp Society comes with an annual fee of £25 and an additional £1 / hour whilst you are fishing.
CAERPHILLY CASTLE, SOUTH WALES
With impressive views of a Norman castle, it is a dream venue to fish. The fishing is made up of the former moat and leaves you with multiple lakes to fish. A long list of fish is available for your fishing challenge, including carp, bream, perch, tench and crucian.
ANGLERS PARADISE, DEVON
The Anglers Paradise certainly lives up to its’ impressive title. The estate has 30 great lakes, 12 exclusive to those staying at the resort. Yes, I said resort, as this is a holiday resort for anglers. If you are not staying at the resort, you can buy day tickets to fish on most of the estates’ lakes.
Novices are well catered for with valuable guides to help them hone their skills. Experienced anglers will love the variety of fish stocks, including koi, carp, catfish and trout, to name just a few.
WINDERMERE, CUMBRIA
We are all familiar with the Lake District and lake Windermere. With a population of arctic char, pike, trout and perch and a transient population of sea trout and salmon, you are assured of a great fishing experience.
REDMIRE POOL, HEREFORDSHIRE
It is long established as a go-to destination for carp. With slots to fish here starting at £2000, you have to be serious about the sport.
LOCH LEVEN, SCOTLAND
Would you like the chance to catch large wild brown trout? Loch Leven would be the destination for you if you answered yes. Brown trout are known for their spirited fight, and experienced anglers enjoy the battle to land big ones. However, a quick note is that bank fishing is forbidden, and all fishing must be from a boat and fly only. The loch is over 3,600 acres of shallow water surrounded by stunning Scottish scenery.
