Latchetts Lakes

Latchetts Lakes is a long‑established coarse fishing complex that has evolved from the well‑known Tanyard Fisheries into a venue that now sits under new ownership, bringing both fresh ideas and a few growing pains for regulars. Set around multiple waters with a mix of carp, catfish and silverfish, it appeals to anglers who want consistent action as well as those targeting specimen fish. Reviews and reports show that the fishery still delivers exciting sessions with powerful catfish and hard‑fighting carp, yet there is also honest criticism about site maintenance and the loss of amenities that were previously part of the experience.

The site has a strong reputation among anglers who have followed it from its Tanyard Fisheries days, when it built a thirty‑year track record as a popular destination for both casual and more experienced coarse anglers. Under the Latchetts Lakes name, much of that core appeal remains: multiple lakes, varied species and the potential for memorable catches. The rebranding and reopening attracted many who were keen to see whether their favourite venue could still provide quality fishing, and several visitors report returning catches of both carp and catfish that confirm the waters still hold plenty of fish willing to feed.

For many visitors, the main attraction is the opportunity for dedicated carp fishing alongside serious catfish fishing, often on the same trip. Anglers mention catfish running into the low thirties in pounds, giving arm‑aching battles close in under the rod tip and providing exactly the kind of excitement that specialist catfish anglers look for. Carp catches frequently include mid‑double fish and a mix of mirror and common carp, which suits pleasure anglers who want regular runs rather than waiting all day for a single bite. This blend of reliable sport and the chance of something larger is one of the clear strengths of the complex.

Margaret’s Lake, described as a 1.4‑acre water and run as a pleasure and match lake, remains a focal point for many day‑ticket anglers. Reports suggest it offers a good head of mixed species, making it ideal for those who enjoy steady float or feeder fishing without necessarily targeting specimen fish every time. Families, newer anglers and those returning to the sport often find this sort of lake particularly appealing, as they can build confidence with regular bites and a variety of fish. For clubs or small groups looking to book a friendly match, a lake of this size and character is also a practical option.

Performance on the banks continues to be a positive talking point. Some anglers note visiting twice within a year and enjoying consistently productive sessions, including catfish to around 33 lb and mid‑double carp, which indicates that stocking levels and fish growth remain at a reasonable standard. Others mention simply being glad to be back on the lakes after the previous fishery closed, emphasising how attractive the surroundings are and how good it feels to fish there again. When conditions line up and anglers get their approach right, Latchetts Lakes still offers the kind of fishing that leaves people keen to plan their next trip.

The surroundings are often highlighted as a strong point. Anglers describe well‑kept banks, established plants such as gunnera, and an overall setting that feels scenic and peaceful. This kind of environment adds a lot to the experience, especially for those who treat a fishing trip as a chance to unwind as much as a chance to catch fish. The presence of level banks and accessible pegs on several waters also helps different age groups and abilities to enjoy the fishing in relative comfort, which is particularly valuable on longer day sessions.

Alongside the fishing, there is a small campsite element to Latchetts Lakes, with visitors noting that they can pitch where they prefer on the certificated location area. This appeals to those who want to stay close to the water, extend their session over a night or weekend and enjoy a slower pace of life. The ability to stay on site naturally complements the focus on specimen carp and catfish, as many serious anglers know that extra hours on the bank can make all the difference when targeting bigger fish.

However, not everything is positive, and recent feedback points to some significant weaknesses that potential visitors should weigh up. One of the biggest changes under the new ownership is the closure of the on‑site café and shop for much of the time, which previously provided hot food, drinks and a social hub as well as basic tackle and bait. Several anglers mention arriving to find the café shut all day, leaving them without easy access to refreshments, and some note that the building now appears to double as accommodation for the bailiff. For those used to full facilities, this feels like a step backwards.

Toilet and hygiene standards are another common criticism. Multiple reviews comment on toilets that are left dirty, with no toilet paper and no soap or hand wash in the dispensers. For a modern day‑ticket fishing lake, especially one that expects anglers to spend long hours on site, this is a basic area that many would expect to be properly maintained. Poor facilities can be particularly off‑putting for families, mixed groups and those bringing non‑angling partners, and for some visitors this issue alone has been enough to discourage them from returning.

Fish health is an area where opinions are more sharply divided. While some anglers report catching good‑looking carp and catfish that fight hard and appear in excellent condition, others describe seeing a high proportion of fish with damaged mouths or signs of disease. One particularly critical review suggests that nine out of ten fish caught had mouth problems or looked unwell. Although this is only one perspective, consistent comments of this nature usually signal that fishery management may need to review handling practices, stocking density, water quality and how effectively rules are enforced.

Another point raised by regulars is that the complex does not appear to have been restocked in any meaningful way since the change of ownership, at least from the perspective of some visitors who have fished it for years. Combined with reports of illness in part of the stock, this can create a perception that the venue’s long‑term fish population is not being actively developed. On the other hand, the fact that anglers are still landing multiple catfish and carp in a session suggests that there is still a substantial head of fish, even if the balance and health of the stock could benefit from further investment.

General maintenance and day‑to‑day management also draw mixed reactions. Some anglers praise the bailiff personally, describing him as friendly and helpful, doing his best within the limits set by the owners. Others, however, criticise regular movements of trucks, tractors and machinery around the complex, as the fishery is used alongside a nearby dairy farm. Reports of a digger operating in the swim next door while an angler was fishing, and of vehicles needing access where anglers had parked due to limited signage, give an impression that the needs of anglers are not always prioritised.

The presence of an off‑lead dog belonging to the owners is another recurring theme. Anglers mention bait being at risk from the roaming dog and note that persistent barking can disturb what would otherwise be a peaceful session. For some visitors this will be a minor annoyance, especially if they are used to dogs and countryside settings, but others see it as a sign of a less professional approach to running a dedicated coarse fishery. Clear rules around dogs, both for visitors and staff, would likely improve the experience for many.

Despite these criticisms, Latchetts Lakes still has attributes that many anglers value. The waters continue to produce carp and catfish to weights that keep experienced anglers interested, and the variety of lakes means both pleasure fishing and more focused specimen hunting are possible. For those primarily driven by the quality of their carp fishing syndicate‑style sessions or the chance to bank powerful catfish, the venue retains enough potential to justify a visit, especially if they come prepared with their own supplies and realistic expectations about facilities.

From a broader perspective, Latchetts Lakes occupies an interesting position among UK pay‑to‑fish venues. It is not a heavily commercialised complex with a large tackle shop, café and manicured pegs on every bank, but neither is it a completely wild, unmanaged water. Instead, it sits somewhere in the middle: an established set of lakes with proven stocks, currently operated in a way that focuses more on the core fishing and less on the extras. Some anglers appreciate this stripped‑back approach, while others feel that small improvements in cleanliness, communication and customer service would make a big difference to their experience.

For potential visitors who value comfortable facilities, on‑site food and a fully serviced environment, Latchetts Lakes may feel less polished than some competing commercial fisheries. Those used to modern venues with dedicated fishing tackle shop facilities, immaculate toilets and a staffed café throughout the day might want to plan ahead by bringing everything they need and confirming what is currently available on site. Conversely, anglers who primarily care about being bankside with the chance of a powerful run from a catfish or a chunky carp may decide that the strengths of the fishing itself outweigh the shortcomings elsewhere.

Ultimately, Latchetts Lakes remains a venue with a loyal following, notable history and genuine fish‑catching potential, but it is also one that divides opinion. The lakes and fish stocks still deliver the sort of action that keeps coarse anglers coming back, with catfish to around thirty pounds and consistent carp sport for those who put in the effort. At the same time, repeated feedback about facilities, fish care and site management suggests there is room for improvement if the fishery is to fully rebuild the strong reputation it enjoyed under its previous name. Prospective visitors who understand both sides of this picture can make an informed decision about whether Latchetts Lakes is the right choice for their next session with the rods.