Clearwater Lakes Fishery

Clearwater Lakes Fishery is a long-established coarse fishery offering a straightforward, no-nonsense setting for anglers who want consistent sport on well-stocked waters rather than a heavily commercialised complex.

The site is built around spring-fed lakes averaging around 12 feet in depth, which helps to keep the water in good condition throughout much of the year and creates reliable conditions for both pleasure anglers and more experienced coarse specialists. Regular visitors mention that there are plenty of fish to go at, with catches including silver fish and hard-fighting carp that provide plenty of action on standard tackle.

One of the main strengths for many visitors is that Clearwater Lakes Fishery focuses on relaxed, pleasure-led coarse angling rather than high-pressure match fishing or specimen hunting. Anglers report enjoyable days on the bank using simple approaches such as sweetcorn for rudd and banded hard pellets for carp, with nets often building steadily over the course of a session. This makes it a practical choice for those who want an accessible venue where good catches are genuinely achievable without needing complex rigs or cutting-edge tactics.

Fish stocks and angling potential

The fishery is known for an extensive head of carp, with weights historically recorded from around 5lb upwards into the mid doubles and beyond, alongside established stocks of chub, roach, bream and tench. For many anglers, this mixture of species is exactly what they look for in a general coarse venue, as it allows a single trip to include bites from fast and active silvers as well as more powerful carp.

Reviews repeatedly highlight that there are "plenty of fish" and that anglers "have always caught" here, which is reassuring for those planning a day out and hoping to avoid blank sessions. The carp in particular are often described as strong and energetic, giving enjoyable battles on balanced tackle and making the venue appealing for anyone who enjoys regular runs rather than waiting all day for a single specimen.

For those targeting mixed bags, straightforward float or feeder tactics with allowed baits are usually sufficient, while visitors who take time to adjust to conditions – for example after heavy rain or pressure changes – still report workable fishing once they settle on the right line and depth. It is not a venue that guarantees spectacular catches on every visit, especially when weather conditions are unsettled, but the underlying stock levels give a reasonably dependable base for pleasure sessions.

Layout, pegs and access

Clearwater Lakes Fishery provides around 120 pegs, giving a substantial number of individual fishing spaces and making it easier to find a suitable swim even on busier days. The banks and peg layout have been improved over time, with long-term visitors noting that earlier issues with rough tracks and basic platforms have been addressed by upgrading the road and installing proper pegs.

A significant positive for many anglers is the ability to park close to or directly behind several of the pegs, which reduces the need for long barrow walks and makes setting up far less demanding. This is especially appreciated by those bringing more gear or fishing longer sessions, as well as anglers who simply prefer the convenience of having their vehicle near at hand.

Access for disabled and less mobile anglers is a clear focus at Clearwater Lakes Fishery. Designated pegs offer easier access for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility, and the fishery notes that handicapped anglers will find both fishing and toilet facilities particularly convenient around pegs 1 to 5. This emphasis on inclusive design, combined with the ability to park close to the water, makes the venue a realistic option for anglers who might struggle with steeper banks or long walks at some other waters.

Rules, atmosphere and on-site management

The fishery operates with a clear set of rules designed to protect fish welfare and maintain a calm environment around the lakes. These include restrictions such as no dogs, no bicycles, no fires and no music, with fishing permitted only in designated areas and in accordance with the venue’s guidelines. Bait rules are also in place, with only certain baits allowed; these are signposted at the entrance to the site, and visitors are expected to check them before starting their session.

From an angler’s point of view, these rules have both strengths and drawbacks. On the positive side, they contribute to a quiet, focused fishing experience, free from loud external noise or uncontrolled activities that might disturb the water. The bait controls help to support long-term fish health, water quality and stock consistency, which benefits regular visitors and those who value sustainable coarse fishing.

However, some anglers may find the bait restrictions limiting, particularly if they are used to using a wider range of boilies, particles or other carp baits at more flexible venues. The absence of dogs, while ideal for those seeking calm surroundings, will also rule the fishery out for anglers who are accustomed to bringing a dog with them on the bank. For potential visitors, it is sensible to check the latest rules before travelling to avoid disappointments or wasted items of bait.

The general atmosphere on site is typically described as peaceful and friendly, with many visitors appreciating the quiet setting and views across the water. Regulars often comment that they feel welcomed and comfortable, and several reviews mention the helpful attitude of the owners and bailiffs, who are known to be approachable and willing to offer advice.

Customer service and visitor experience

Feedback from anglers suggests that the team behind Clearwater Lakes Fishery is attentive and engaged with day-to-day management. Visitors speak positively about the owners, describing them as pleasant, approachable and supportive, with a hands-on presence around the lakes. This can make a real difference for newer anglers, who may have questions about pegs, depths or tactics, as well as for more experienced visitors who simply appreciate straightforward communication.

Many returning customers highlight that they visit regularly throughout the year, which indicates a good level of satisfaction with the overall experience. They praise the combination of reasonable day ticket pricing, consistent fishing and a relaxed environment, and several anglers state they would recommend the venue to others looking for casual pleasure sessions rather than high-stakes competition days.

There are, of course, less successful trips reported, particularly during or just after periods of heavy rain or unsettled weather that push the fish into deeper water and make them less responsive. Anglers who head out in challenging conditions and expect instant results may leave slightly frustrated, even though this reflects the realities of coarse angling more than it does any specific issue with the venue itself.

Facilities and practical considerations

In terms of on-site facilities, Clearwater Lakes Fishery offers the essentials that many coarse anglers prioritise: accessible toilets, parking near the pegs, clearly laid-out swims and straightforward access around the lakes. This makes it suitably equipped for day-ticket angling, even if it does not aim to provide the more elaborate infrastructure, shops or cafés found at some larger commercial complexes.

Day tickets are regarded as fairly priced for a venue of this type, reflecting the presence of good stocks of carp and silver fish, maintained pegs and bank work, and the availability of accessible swims. Some anglers mention that they would like to see an annual membership or season ticket option for regular pleasure fishing, which is not currently offered, so those who visit frequently will need to continue paying on a daily basis.

For potential visitors, it is important to note that all information about costs, permitted baits and any updates to rules should be confirmed directly with the fishery before travelling, as these details can change over time. Anglers who plan carefully and arrive prepared with appropriate bait, tackle and expectations are likely to get the most out of their day.

Strengths for coarse and carp anglers

Clearwater Lakes Fishery stands out as a solid option for anglers seeking relaxed, accessible coarse angling with a strong emphasis on mixed bags and frequent action. The combination of carp, roach, rudd, bream, tench and chub gives plenty of scope for different styles of fishing, from light float work for silvers to more robust setups aimed at lively carp.

For anyone interested in carp fishing lakes where the emphasis is on regular sport from energetic fish rather than chasing a handful of very large specimens, the venue offers a sensible balance of stock density and manageable size. Similarly, coarse anglers who enjoy day ticket fishing at established waters are likely to appreciate the straightforward format, clear rules and practical access.

Anglers searching for commercial fisheries that cater for disabled or less mobile visitors will also find Clearwater Lakes Fishery noteworthy, thanks to its accessible pegs, parking arrangement and provision for handicapped anglers. This is a significant point for those who may find many venues difficult or tiring to navigate.

Limitations and points to consider

While Clearwater Lakes Fishery has many positives, there are some limitations potential visitors should weigh up. The bait restrictions, although beneficial for fish welfare, may feel restrictive to anglers who like to experiment with a wide variety of offerings or who are used to more flexible policies on boilies, particles or groundbait. Those planning sessions that rely on more specialist approaches may need to adapt their usual methods or consider alternative venues.

The rules prohibiting dogs, bicycles, fires and music create a calm setting but will not suit everyone, particularly anglers who typically bring a dog to the bank as part of their regular routine. In addition, while many anglers report consistently good catches, expectations should remain realistic: like any coarse venue, fishing can slow during adverse weather or rapid changes in pressure, and some days will inevitably be harder than others.

Another factor is that Clearwater Lakes Fishery does not appear to position itself as a high-profile specimen venue or a heavily promoted competition complex. For some anglers this is a positive, as it keeps the focus on straightforward pleasure fishing; others who are looking specifically for trophy carp, major events or extensive on-site facilities may feel better served elsewhere.

Who will enjoy Clearwater Lakes Fishery?

Clearwater Lakes Fishery is well suited to anglers who value consistent coarse fishing, accessible pegs and a calm, rule-focused environment over glossy facilities or extreme specimen hunting. It will particularly appeal to those seeking coarse fishing lakes where they can enjoy regular bites, mixed catches and a relaxed pace throughout the day.

Newer anglers, families with older children who are already familiar with basic fishing techniques, and returning coarse anglers looking to get back into the sport are all likely to find the venue a sensible choice. The presence of fish in a range of sizes, clear rules and approachable owners helps to reduce uncertainty and makes the overall experience more predictable and comfortable.

More experienced anglers who enjoy refining tactics within a structured rule set can also find plenty to like here, especially if they appreciate waters where stock levels and conditions are nurtured rather than over-pressured. Provided visitors arrive with a good understanding of the bait rules, a realistic view of what the venue offers and an appreciation of its quiet, no-frills approach, Clearwater Lakes Fishery can deliver a satisfying and repeatable coarse angling experience.