Over the coming weeks and months, we're going to bring you lists about the best carp & coarse fisheries in the UK and abroad. To make this easy for the reader to find, we're breaking them up into region-by-region articles, and of course, we're starting with the greatest part of the UK, the North West!
So, who made the list? Let's find out...
Blakemere Fishery, Shropshire
Set in the heart of Shropshire, Blakemere fishery once operated as a ticket-only venue, however early in 2020, it made the switch over to a day ticket fishery, allowing any angler to book a session on the scenic lake. The stunning, wild 8-acre lake has depths up to 12 feet and an abundance of natural food for the big fish in its depths. With multiple fish over 30lb and an even bigger head of 20's, Blakemere offers pure specimen fishing for any angler lucky enough to fish it.
https://www.blakemere-leisure.co.uk/
Source: Blakemere Leisure
Merrington Carp Fishery - Mainlake, North Shropshire
This 8-acre man-made lake benefits from multiple clusters of islands, underwater features and superbly built pegs, providing the perfect venue for the carp angler. In addition to the comfortable and tranquil settings, the complex benefits from an onsite cafe that delivers directly to your peg serving meals throughout the day, a well-stocked tackle shop and even a toilet and shower block.
Of course, the fish that occupy Merrington are the real highlight with 200 fish from 10lb-42lb with the lake records currently set at 42lb 14oz Mirror and 42lb 8oz Common. There are multiple 30's and over 85 20's in the lake. Fishing is far from easy at this lake, but if you can tempt one of these wily carp, it will be a catch to remember.
http://www.merringtoncarpfishery.co.uk/
Source: Merrington Fisheries
Wyreside Lakes - Sunnyside Two, Lancashire
There are multiple lakes on the Wyreside Complex, with the jewel in the crown as Sunnyside Two. There is a great stocking system at Wyreside, with new fish added to the water gradually over the past decade or so to continually improve the already impressive water. Sunnyside Two consists of mainly open water, with just one small island on the lake. There are some hot spots for fishing but they depend on wind directions, but as a general rule the corner swims tend to hold fish fairly consistently. The Wyreside website has some fantastic lake maps, with depths and casting distances included, enabling you to plan ahead for your session. The lake record is 32lb, but there is a significant amount of big fish in this lake. The complex has ammenties in abundance from cafe's to toilet blocks, so if you're looking for specimen carp fishing with a bit of added comfort, make this your first stop!
https://wyresidelakes.co.uk/lakes/sunnyside-two
Source: Wyreside Lakes
Baden Hall Fisheries - The Quarry, Staffordshire
Heralded as one the most difficult carp fishing waters in the country, The Quarry at Baden Hall Fisheries is the ultimate test for seasoned anglers both amateur and professional. The lake record stands at an astounding 52lb Mirror and a 49lb Common, with plenty of 40's and at least 50 over 30lb's.
This is one of the best big fish day ticket waters you are likely to find, and if you can commit to spending some time working out the water, you will eventually be rewarded with a career defining fish.
The lake is set along a railway, with huts provided for you, so no need to put up your bivvy. You can also park at your peg which is very handy. The complex has many lakes including two other specimen lakes, 3 runs waters and handful of match waters. There is also a cafe and tackle shop onsite!
The Quarry is famous water in the UK and is likely to be an historic water in the future, so book a session to experience it fully!
https://www.badenhallfishery.com/the-quarry
Source: Baden Hall Fisheries
Home Farm Fisheries – The Specimen Lake, Alsager
The specimen lake at Home Farm Fisheries provides one of the most stunning locations to wet a line in the North West. Surrounding in greenery and overhanging trees, the lake is stocked with some skill testing Carp and Catfish, with Carp extending to around 30lb and Catfish approaching 70lb.
There may be fisheries with bigger fish in the area, but few can match the quality and variations that Home Farm offer with Koi, Ghosties, Grassies and Leathers accompanying your more commonly found Mirrors and Commons. They run on a day ticket policy and you can find rules, information and bookings on their website.
https://www.homefarmfisheries.com
Source: Home Farm Fisheries
Did we miss your favourite fishery off the list? Let us know in the comments and don't forget to check out our website for some cracking bait deals!
