Top 8 Premier Carp Lakes in England: Angler’s Guide

Getting Started: Your Guide to Carp Fishing in England

Best Carp Fishing Lakes in England: Imagine casting your line into the calm waters of a beautiful English lake, surrounded by the beauty of nature. Just as you’re enjoying the quiet, your rod suddenly curves under the weight of a feisty carp! England is renowned for its carp fishing spots, set against beautiful views where these spirited fish thrive. This guide can help you find that trophy carp, or it can be used to plan your next fishing trip. The top 8 carp fishing spots in England, each providing a distinctive experience for fishermen, are about to be explored. Are you up for a journey? Let’s locate the perfect location for carp fishing.

Best Carp Fishing Lakes In England

Farlows Lake: Heathrow’s Day-Trip Carp Paradise

Detailed Location Information:

• Farlows Lake is located near Heathrow Airport in Iver, England. The exact address may not be publicly available, but websites like Farlows Lake’s own or fishing directory websites can provide directions to the fishery.

Destination Insights:

• Getting There: Farlows Lake is conveniently located for travelers arriving at Heathrow Airport. Local public transport options or taxis can be used to reach the fishery.
• Best Fishing Season: Spring and autumn (roughly March-May and September-November) are generally considered the best times for carp fishing in England due to mild water temperatures and increased carp activity.
• Local Regulations and Permits: Farlows Lake operates on a day ticket system. Purchase your day ticket upon arrival at the fishery. Contact them directly for current permit prices and regulations: https://www.farlowslake.co.uk/
• Recommended Gear and Bait: Farlows Lake likely has a bait and tackle shop on-site where you can purchase carp fishing essentials or inquire about recommended bait types. They typically recommend strong rods, reels, and lines suitable for carp fishing, along with boilies (dough balls) as bait.
• Gear Rental Expenses: Contact Farlows Lake directly to inquire about gear rental options and pricing.
• What to Pack for Your Fishing Trip: Sun protection, comfortable clothing for the weather, a landing net, unhooking mat (protects the fish), and any necessary food and drinks.
• Boat Charter Options: Carp fishing at Farlows Lake is done from the bank (shore), so boat charters wouldn’t be applicable.
• Accommodation Recommendations: Search for hotels or B&Bs near Iver, England. Prices will vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £200+ per night.
• Weather and Sea Conditions: England’s weather can be unpredictable. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Local Fishing Techniques: Research carp fishing techniques commonly used in England. These might involve spodding (baiting a specific area), stalking (approaching carp cautiously), and using specialist rigs tailored for carp fishing.

What’s On Offer:

• Convenient day-ticket access for short fishing trips.
• A former gravel pit transformed into a carp fishery with carp exceeding 45lb.
• Calm waters and a peaceful setting close to Heathrow Airport.

Approximate Expenses excluding Flights:

• Day Ticket: Varies depending on the fishery, typically between £20-£50 per day (check website for current prices).
• Gear Rental (optional): Varies depending on availability and rental options (contact fishery directly).
• Accommodation: £50-£200+ per night depending on location and amenities.
• Food and Drinks: Variable depending on personal needs.

Remember: Day ticket prices and regulations can change, so contact Farlows Lake directly before your trip for the latest information.

Linear Fisheries: A Year-Round Carp Fishing Paradise

Detailed Location Information:

• Linear Fisheries is located in Oxfordshire, England. The complex itself encompasses several lakes spread across the county. While the exact addresses of each lake might not be publicly available, their website provides a map and directions: https://www.linear-fisheries.co.uk/

Destination Insights:

• Getting There: Linear Fisheries recommends using a car to reach their various lakes. Directions can be found on their website or through GPS navigation using the lake names.
• Best Fishing Season: Spring and autumn (roughly March-May and September-November) are generally considered the best times for carp fishing in England due to mild water temperatures and increased carp activity. However, Linear Fisheries being open year-round allows for carp fishing throughout the seasons.
• Local Regulations and Permits: Linear Fisheries offers two options:
  • Day Tickets: Available for purchase on arrival at the fishery for most lakes.
  • Syndicate Membership: These exclusive memberships provide access to specific lakes with limited membership, potentially resulting in a less crowded environment and a higher chance of encountering trophy carp.

Contact Linear Fisheries directly for current permit prices and regulations: https://www.linear-fisheries.co.uk/

• Recommended Gear and Bait: A well-stocked tackle shop is located on-site at Linear Fisheries. They can advise on appropriate carp fishing gear (strong rods, reels, lines) and bait (boilies are a popular option).
• Gear Rental Expenses: Linear Fisheries offers gear rental for anglers who don’t have their own equipment. Contact them directly for current rental rates.
• What to Pack for Your Fishing Trip: Sun protection, comfortable clothing for the weather, a landing net, unhooking mat (protects the fish), and any necessary food and drinks.
• Boat Charter Options: Carp fishing at Linear Fisheries is done from the bank (shore), so boat charters wouldn’t be applicable.
• Accommodation Recommendations: Search for hotels, lodges, or campsites near Oxfordshire, England. Prices will vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £200+ per night.
• Weather and Sea Conditions: England’s weather can be unpredictable. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Local Fishing Techniques: Research carp fishing techniques commonly used in England. These might involve spodding (baiting a specific area), stalking (approaching carp cautiously), and using specialist rigs tailored for carp fishing.

What’s On Offer:

• Year-round carp fishing access on a variety of lakes.
• Day tickets and syndicate memberships catering to all budgets and experience levels.
• The chance to fish for trophy carp in potentially less crowded environments (syndicate lakes).
• On-site tackle shop for gear and bait purchases or rentals.

Approximate Expenses excluding Flights:

• Day Ticket: Varies depending on the lake, typically between £20-£50 per day (check website for current prices).
• Syndicate Membership: Varies depending on the lake and membership tier (contact fishery directly).
• Gear Rental (optional): Varies depending on availability and rental options (contact fishery directly).
• Accommodation: £50-£200+ per night depending on location and amenities.
• Food and Drinks: Variable depending on personal needs.

Remember: Day ticket prices, syndicate membership fees, and regulations can change, so contact Linear Fisheries directly before your trip for the latest information.

Old Mill Lakes: Home to Legendary Carp Giants

Destination Insights:

• Getting There: As the exact location is unknown, research on commercial carp fisheries in southern England is recommended. Look for websites that mention “Old Mill Lakes” or similar names.
• Best Fishing Season: Spring and autumn (roughly March-May and September-November) are generally considered the best times for carp fishing in England due to mild water temperatures and increased carp activity.
• Local Regulations and Permits: Most commercial fisheries in England require day tickets or memberships for fishing. Contact the specific fishery you choose for details on permit costs and regulations. Here are some resources to find fisheries and their regulations:
  • Angling Trust (national governing body for fishing in England): https://anglingtrust.net/our-competitions/coarse-competitions/
  • Fisheries Finder (https://mdc.mo.gov/fishing/where-fish): Search for fisheries in southern England using keywords like “carp” or “commercial fishery.”
• Recommended Gear and Bait: Contact the chosen fishery for specific recommendations on tackle and bait allowed. Generally, carp fishing setups involve strong rods, reels, and lines suitable for battling large fish. Boilies (dough balls) are popular carp bait options.
• Gear Rental Expenses: Some fisheries may offer gear rental for anglers who don’t have their own equipment. Contact the fishery directly for rental rates.
• What to Pack for Your Fishing Trip: Sun protection, comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, a landing net, unhooking mat ( protects the fish), and any necessary food and drinks.
• Boat Charter Options: Carp fishing at Old Mill Lakes is likely done from the bank (shore), so boat charters wouldn’t be applicable.
• Accommodation Recommendations: Search for hotels, lodges, or campsites near the chosen fishery. Prices will vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £200+ per night.
• Weather and Sea Conditions: England’s weather can be unpredictable. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Local Fishing Techniques: Research carp fishing techniques commonly used in England. These might involve spodding (baiting a specific area), stalking (approaching carp cautiously), and using specialist rigs tailored for carp fishing.

What’s On Offer:

• The chance to battle trophy carp exceeding 55lb, particularly mirror carp.
• Four separate lakes offering a diverse carp fishing experience with varying sizes and challenges.
• A picturesque setting for a memorable fishing adventure.

Approximate Expenses excluding Flights:

• Day Ticket/Membership: Varies depending on the fishery, typically between £20-£50 per day.
• Gear Rental (optional): Varies depending on the fishery, possibly £20-£50 per day.
• Accommodation: £50-£200+ per night depending on location and amenities.
• Food and Drinks: Variable depending on personal needs.

Remember: Research specific fishery regulations and obtain any required permits before your trip.

Wasing Estate: Carp Fishing Paradise

Detailed Location Information:

• Wasing Estate Lake is situated within the Wasing Estate in Berkshire, England. The exact location of the lake might not be publicly available, but the Wasing Estate website offers directions and a map for reaching the estate itself: https://www.wasing.co.uk/fishing

Destination Insights:

• Getting There: The Wasing Estate website recommends using a car to reach the property. Follow their directions or use GPS navigation to reach the estate.
• Best Fishing Season: Spring and autumn (roughly March-May and September-November) are generally considered the best times for carp fishing in England due to mild water temperatures and increased carp activity.
• Local Regulations and Permits: Wasing Estate Lake operates on a membership system with various syndicate options. Contact the Wasing Estate directly for details on memberships, regulations, and permit fees: https://www.wasing.co.uk/fishing
• Recommended Gear and Bait: The specific recommendations for Wasing Estate Lake might be available through the estate itself. Generally, carp fishing setups involve strong rods, reels, lines suitable for battling large fish, and boilies (dough balls) as bait.
• Gear Rental Expenses: Information on gear rental availability and pricing isn’t readily available. Contact the Wasing Estate directly to inquire.
• What to Pack for Your Fishing Trip: Sun protection, comfortable clothing for the weather, a landing net, unhooking mat (protects the fish), and any necessary food and drinks.
• Boat Charter Options: Carp fishing at Wasing Estate Lake is done from the bank (shore), so boat charters wouldn’t be applicable.
• Accommodation Recommendations: Search for hotels, lodges, or campsites near the Wasing Estate in Berkshire. Prices will vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £200+ per night.
• Weather and Sea Conditions: England’s weather can be unpredictable. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Local Fishing Techniques: Research carp fishing techniques commonly used in England. These might involve spodding (baiting a specific area), stalking (approaching carp cautiously), and using specialist rigs tailored for carp fishing.

What’s On Offer:

• A 15-acre lake with a healthy carp population known for its good average weight.
• A picturesque setting within the Berkshire countryside for a scenic fishing experience.
• Membership system for access to the lake (specific details available through the Wasing Estate).

Approximate Expenses excluding Flights:

• Membership Fees: Varies depending on the chosen syndicate option (contact Wasing Estate directly).
• Gear Rental (optional): Varies depending on availability and rental options (contact Wasing Estate directly).
• Accommodation: £50-£200+ per night depending on location and amenities.
• Food and Drinks: Variable depending on personal needs.

Remember: Membership fees and regulations can change, so contact Wasing Estate directly before your trip for the latest information.

Bluebell Lakes: Legendary Carp & Monster Kings 

Detailed Location Information:

• Bluebell Lakes is situated near Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, England. The complex itself encompasses several lakes. While specific lake locations might not be publicly available, their website provides a map and directions: https://www.bluebell-lakes.co.uk/

Destination Insights:

• Getting There: Bluebell Lakes recommends using a car to reach the fishery. Follow their directions or use GPS navigation using “Bluebell Lakes” as your destination.
• Best Fishing Season: Spring and autumn (roughly March-May and September-November) are generally considered the best times for carp fishing in England due to mild water temperatures and increased carp activity.
• Local Regulations and Permits: Day tickets and extended stay options are available at Bluebell Lakes. Contact them directly for current permit prices, regulations, and specific details on Kingfisher Lake: https://www.bluebell-lakes.co.uk/
• Recommended Gear and Bait: A well-stocked tackle shop is located on-site at Bluebell Lakes. They can advise on appropriate carp fishing gear (strong rods, reels, lines) and bait (boilies are a popular option).
• Gear Rental Expenses: Bluebell Lakes might offer gear rental for anglers who don’t have their own equipment. Contact them directly for current rental rates.
• What to Pack for Your Fishing Trip: Sun protection, comfortable clothing for the weather, a landing net, unhooking mat (protects the fish), and any necessary food and drinks.
• Boat Charter Options: Carp fishing at Bluebell Lakes is done from the bank (shore), so boat charters wouldn’t be applicable.
• Accommodation Recommendations: Search for hotels, lodges, or campsites near Peterborough, Cambridgeshire. Prices will vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £200+ per night.
• Weather and Sea Conditions: England’s weather can be unpredictable. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Local Fishing Techniques: Research carp fishing techniques commonly used in England. These might involve spodding (baiting a specific area), stalking (approaching carp cautiously), and using specialist rigs tailored for carp fishing.

What’s On Offer:

• Renowned carp fishery with a reputation for carp exceeding 50lb.
• Kingfisher Lake specifically is known for producing monster carp.
• Day tickets and extended stay options available.
• On-site tackle shop for gear and bait purchases or rentals.

Approximate Expenses excluding Flights:

• Day Ticket/Extended Stay: Varies depending on the chosen option (check website for current prices).
• Gear Rental (optional): Varies depending on availability and rental options (contact fishery directly).
• Accommodation: £50-£200+ per night depending on location and amenities.
• Food and Drinks: Variable depending on personal needs.

Remember: Permit prices, regulations, and specific details on Kingfisher Lake can change, so contact Bluebell Lakes directly before your trip for the latest information.

Colts Pond: A Chance for a Whopper Carp

Image source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/

Detailed Location Information:

• Colts Pond’s exact location might not be publicly available due to potential overfishing concerns. However, it’s likely situated in southern England where many commercial carp fisheries are found.

Destination Insights:

• Getting There: Research commercial carp fisheries in southern England. Look for websites mentioning “Colts Pond” or similar names for directions.
• Best Fishing Season: Spring and autumn (roughly March-May and September-November) are generally considered the best times for carp fishing in England due to mild water temperatures and increased carp activity.
• Local Regulations and Permits: Most commercial fisheries in England require day tickets or memberships for fishing. Contact the specific fishery you choose for details on permit costs and regulations. Here are some resources to find fisheries and their regulations:
  • Angling Trust (national governing body for fishing in England): https://anglingtrust.net/our-competitions/coarse-competitions/
  • Fisheries Finder (https://mdc.mo.gov/fishing/where-fish): Search for fisheries in southern England using keywords like “carp” or “commercial fishery.”
• Recommended Gear and Bait: Contact the chosen fishery for specific recommendations on tackle and bait allowed. Generally, carp fishing setups involve strong rods, reels, and lines suitable for battling large fish. Boilies (dough balls) are popular carp bait options.
• Gear Rental Expenses: Some fisheries may offer gear rental for anglers who don’t have their own equipment. Contact the fishery directly for rental rates.
• What to Pack for Your Fishing Trip: Sun protection, comfortable clothing for the weather, a landing net, unhooking mat (protects the fish), and any necessary food and drinks.
• Boat Charter Options: Carp fishing at Colts Pond is likely done from the bank (shore), so boat charters wouldn’t be applicable.
• Accommodation Recommendations: Search for hotels, lodges, or campsites near the chosen fishery. Prices will vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £
  200+ per night.
• Weather and Sea Conditions: England’s weather can be unpredictable. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Local Fishing Techniques: Research carp fishing techniques commonly used in England. These might involve spodding (baiting a specific area), stalking (approaching carp cautiously), and using specialist rigs tailored for carp fishing.

What’s On Offer:

• A 10-acre lake with a healthy carp population.
• An average carp weight of around 20lb, offering a good challenge for anglers.
• The chance to catch a monster carp – the record common carp at Colts Pond exceeds 40lb!

Approximate Expenses excluding Flights:

• Day Ticket/Membership: Varies depending on the fishery, typically between £20-£50 per day.
• Gear Rental (optional): Varies depending on availability and rental options (contact fishery directly).
• Accommodation: £50-£200+ per night depending on location and amenities.
• Food and Drinks: Variable depending on personal needs.

Remember: Research specific fishery regulations and obtain any required permits before your trip.

St. John’s Lake (Linear Fisheries)

Detailed Location Information:

• St. John’s Lake is part of the Linear Fisheries complex located in Oxfordshire, England. The exact location of the lake might not be available publicly, but the Linear Fisheries website has a map and directions for the complex: https://www.linear-fisheries.co.uk/

Destination Insights:

• Getting There: Linear Fisheries recommends using a car to reach their various lakes. Directions can be found on their website or through GPS navigation using “Linear Fisheries” and the lake name “St. John’s Lake”.
• Best Fishing Season: Spring and autumn (roughly March-May and September-November) are generally considered the best times for carp fishing in England due to mild water temperatures and increased carp activity. However, St. John’s Lake is open year-round.
• Local Regulations and Permits: Linear Fisheries offers day tickets for St. John’s Lake, allowing for easy access. Contact them directly for current permit prices and regulations: https://www.linear-fisheries.co.uk/
• Recommended Gear and Bait: A well-stocked tackle shop is located on-site at Linear Fisheries. They can advise on appropriate carp fishing gear (strong rods, reels, lines) and bait (boilies are a popular option).
• Gear Rental Expenses: Linear Fisheries offers gear rental for anglers who don’t have their own equipment. Contact them directly for current rental rates.
• What to Pack for Your Fishing Trip: Sun protection, comfortable clothing for the weather, a landing net, unhooking mat (protects the fish), and any necessary food and drinks.
• Boat Charter Options: Carp fishing at St. John’s Lake is done from the bank (shore), so boat charters wouldn’t be applicable.
• Accommodation Recommendations: Search for hotels, lodges, or campsites near Oxfordshire, England. Prices will vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £200+ per night.
• Weather and Sea Conditions: England’s weather can be unpredictable. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Local Fishing Techniques: Research carp fishing techniques commonly used in England. These might involve spodding (baiting a specific area), stalking (approaching carp cautiously), and using specialist rigs tailored for carp fishing.

What’s On Offer:

• Renowned for its large carp population with several specimens exceeding 50lb.
• Day ticket access for easy fishing opportunities.
• On-site tackle shop for gear and bait purchases or rentals.

Approximate Expenses excluding Flights:

• Day Ticket: Varies depending on the fishery, typically between £20-£50 per day (check website for current prices).
• Gear Rental (optional): Varies depending on availability and rental options (contact fishery directly).
• Accommodation: £50-£200+ per night depending on location and amenities.
• Food and Drinks: Variable depending on personal needs.

Remember: Day ticket prices and regulations can change, so contact Linear Fisheries directly before your trip for the latest information.

Manor Farm Lake (Linear Fisheries)

Detailed Location Information:

• Manor Farm Lake is part of the Linear Fisheries complex located in Oxfordshire, England. The exact location of the lake might not be available publicly, but the Linear Fisheries website has a map and directions for the complex: https://www.linear-fisheries.co.uk/

Destination Insights:

• Getting There: Linear Fisheries recommends using a car to reach their various lakes. Directions can be found on their website or through GPS navigation using “Linear Fisheries” and the lake name “Manor Farm Lake”.
• Best Fishing Season: Spring and autumn (roughly March-May and September-November) are generally considered the best times for carp fishing in England due to mild water temperatures and increased carp activity. However, Manor Farm Lake is open year-round.
• Local Regulations and Permits: Manor Farm Lake is now only fishable through pre-booking via the Catch fishing platform and App GoCatch. You can book individual pegs or the whole lake, depending on availability. Contact Linear Fisheries or visit the GoCatch website for details and bookings: https://www.linear-fisheries.co.uk/
• Recommended Gear and Bait: A well-stocked tackle shop is located on-site at Linear Fisheries. They can advise on appropriate carp fishing gear (strong rods, reels, lines) and bait (boilies are a popular option).
• Gear Rental Expenses: Linear Fisheries offers gear rental for anglers who don’t have their own equipment. Contact them directly for current rental rates.
• What to Pack for Your Fishing Trip: Sun protection, comfortable clothing for the weather, a landing net, unhooking mat (protects the fish), and any necessary food and drinks.
• Boat Charter Options: Carp fishing at Manor Farm Lake is done from the bank (shore), so boat charters wouldn’t be applicable.
• Accommodation Recommendations: Search for hotels, lodges, or campsites near Oxfordshire, England. Prices will vary depending on location, amenities, and time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from £50 to 200+ per night.
• Weather and Sea Conditions: England’s weather can be unpredictable. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly.
• Local Fishing Techniques: Research carp fishing techniques commonly used in England. These might involve spodding (baiting a specific area), stalking (approaching carp cautiously), and using specialist rigs tailored for carp fishing.

What’s On Offer:

• A lake known for its healthy carp population with an average weight in the high twenties.
• Many carp exceeding 30lb, offering a great chance for a trophy catch.
• Pre-booking system for access to the lake.
• On-site tackle shop for gear and bait purchases or rentals.

Approximate Expenses excluding Flights:

• Pre-Booking Fee (varies depending on option chosen, contact Linear Fisheries or GoCatch for details).
• Gear Rental (optional): Varies depending on availability and rental options (contact fishery directly).
• Accommodation: £50-£200+ per night depending on location and amenities.
• Food and Drinks: Variable depending on personal needs.

Remember: Booking fees and regulations can change, so contact Linear Fisheries or check the GoCatch website before your trip for the latest information.

FAQ on ” Best Carp Fishing Lakes In England

Blog Post Conclusion

So, there you have it! Eight fantastic carp fishing destinations in England, each offering unique experiences for anglers of all skill levels.

We explored Linear Fisheries’ extensive complex, highlighting the year-round accessibility of St. John’s Lake, the potential for monster carp at Manor Farm Lake, and the diverse options between day tickets and syndicates across their various waters. We also ventured beyond Linear Fisheries, discovering the legendary carp of Bluebell Lakes’ Kingfisher Lake, the chance for a record-breaking common carp at Colts Pond, and the scenic beauty surrounding Wasing Estate Lake.

Remember, this is just a starting point! With countless carp fisheries scattered across England, further research is key to finding the perfect lake for your carp fishing adventure. Consider factors like the average carp weight, the presence of trophy fish, desired fishing style (day tickets vs. syndicates), and even scenic surroundings.

Do you have a favorite carp fishing destination in England? Share your experiences in the comments below! If you have any questions about these lakes or carp fishing in England in general, don’t hesitate to ask!

Tight lines and happy fishing!

You may love to read our amazing post on : Top 7 Best Lakes for Walleye Fishing Thrills in Michigan