Midland Game Fisheries

Midland Game Fisheries at Fisherwick Lakes is a long-established coarse and game fishing complex that attracts carp anglers, pleasure anglers and club match groups who want consistent sport in well-kept surroundings. The fishery operates on a membership and day-ticket basis, with bailiffs on hand to check Environment Agency licences and keep an eye on the banks, which reassures many visitors who value a properly managed venue rather than an unmanaged stretch of water. For anyone looking for a dedicated place to use their carp fishing gear or introduce family members to coarse angling, it offers multiple waters, varied pegs and a reputation for steady action throughout the year.

The complex is built around several lakes and pools with different characters, giving anglers options for short pleasure sessions, overnight stays or club bookings. Visitors mention that the banks and swims are generally well maintained, with mown paths and clearly defined pegs that make it easy to set up without wading through overgrown margins. The layout is described as well thought out, with numerous mixed-species and specimen-style pools, so you are not restricted to just one type of fishing for the whole day. This variety suits anglers who enjoy switching between coarse fishing, match fishing tactics and more traditional ledger or float approaches within the same venue.

One of the strongest positive points raised repeatedly is fish health and stocking levels. Anglers report catching immaculate fish with clean fins and good condition, suggesting regular stocking and careful fishery management. There are references to an abundance of fish across the seven or so lakes, with some visitors remarking that they have caught more in a single trip here than in many sessions elsewhere, which is encouraging for newer anglers and those who do not get out very often. Mixed pools include species commonly associated with coarse fishing lakes, such as carp, tench, bream, roach and other silver fish, giving plenty of bites as well as opportunities for bigger fish.

For anglers primarily interested in commercial carp fisheries, Midland Game Fisheries has clear appeal. Reports from visitors talk about frequent carp catches and busy days on the float or feeder, which suits those who enjoy active sessions rather than waiting long periods for a single run. While there is limited public information about individual lake records, the fact that many anglers return regularly and call it their new go-to venue suggests that the carp stocks are more than adequate for most day-ticket anglers who want reliable action. The presence of several pools also means pressure is spread around the complex, which can help maintain catch rates even at busier times.

Accessibility is another factor that potential visitors often consider, and here Midland Game Fisheries performs reasonably well. Reviews highlight good vehicle access around much of the site, with the ability for disabled anglers to get close to the pools by car, which makes a difference for those who struggle to carry heavy tackle long distances. Pegs are generally described as reasonably priced and suitable for standard coarse setups, including seat boxes, poles and longer carp rods. Overnight stays are also allowed, which will appeal to those who enjoy specimen carp fishing or social sessions with friends, although it remains important to confirm any updated rules directly with the fishery before planning a longer stay.

Facilities on site extend beyond just the pegs themselves. Anglers mention the presence of friendly staff and a small catering option that serves breakfast, which adds value for those arriving early and wanting a hot meal before setting up. The combination of decent fishing and the ability to have food and drinks on site can make the venue more attractive for full-day visits, especially during cooler months when a break in a warm area is appreciated. While it is not promoted as a full-blown holiday complex, these touches contribute to a more comfortable experience than purely basic day-ticket waters with no amenities.

Customer service is generally rated positively, with several anglers commenting on friendly, approachable staff and an atmosphere that feels relaxed rather than overly strict. Regulars talk about meeting great people on the bank and feeling welcome, which is important for beginners who might be nervous about visiting a new fishery for the first time. That said, this is still a venue with clear expectations regarding licences, booking and rules, in line with most organised day ticket fisheries that need to balance a friendly environment with protecting fish stocks and ensuring safety.

Not all feedback is positive, and potential visitors should be aware of some recurring criticisms. One of the more striking negative experiences comes from an angler who booked in advance but arrived to find the venue effectively full, with very limited space available. They also mention encountering a member of staff whose manner they perceived as unhelpful and abrupt, which left a poor impression after a long drive and a damaged tyre on the potholed driveway. Although this appears to be an isolated account compared with the many positive reviews, it highlights that the experience can depend on timing, staffing and how busy the fishery is on the day.

Capacity and availability are important points for any commercial fishery that is popular with club matches and regulars. Midland Game Fisheries is often busy, particularly at weekends and during peak seasons, and one reviewer advises that it is best to book in advance rather than simply turning up and expecting a peg. Day-ticket waters and membership venues alike can only accommodate so many anglers before banks become crowded and the quality of fishing declines, so it is reasonable that this fishery encourages some degree of planning ahead. However, the criticism about a lack of apology when space was not available suggests there is room for improvement in communication and customer care during these situations.

The access road is another aspect that attracts criticism. At least one visitor reports hitting severe potholes along the driveway, resulting in a burst tyre and considerable frustration. While many rural fishing lakes are reached via rough tracks, ongoing maintenance of the approach road is important for visitors’ vehicles and overall impressions of professionalism. Prospective customers driving lower cars or towing trailers might want to take this into account, particularly after heavy rain when tracks can deteriorate further.

Peg allocation and space between anglers can also influence how enjoyable a session feels. Some reviews describe a venue that can feel crowded when heavily booked, especially on popular lakes that attract both pleasure anglers and club matches at the same time. For those who prefer quieter, more secluded spots, this busier feel may be less appealing, even if the fishing itself remains productive. Other anglers, particularly those used to popular commercial coarse fisheries, may find the buzz and regular activity entirely normal and a sign of a successful fishery.

In terms of value for money, Midland Game Fisheries is described as offering reasonable peg fees relative to the quality of fishing and facilities on offer. Membership and day-ticket structures are typical of organised coarse fishing venues, with clear expectations that all anglers hold a valid licence and settle tickets before fishing. For anglers who get out regularly and make full use of the multiple lakes, the cost per session can work out competitively when compared to other managed fisheries of similar size and standard.

From a skills perspective, the fishery appears suitable for a wide range of anglers, from beginners to more experienced coarse and specimen anglers. Families and newer anglers appreciate the high stocking levels and the chance to catch plenty of fish in a day, which builds confidence and keeps children engaged. At the same time, the presence of multiple pools and varied depths, features and stocking patterns gives more advanced anglers scope to refine their approach, try different rigs and baits, and target better fish if they wish.

The overall atmosphere at Midland Game Fisheries is shaped by a blend of regulars, visiting club anglers and occasional day-ticket visitors. Many describe it as a beautiful place to spend a day, with pleasant surroundings and clean, tidy banks that show ongoing maintenance rather than neglect. The lakes themselves are often photographed by visitors, highlighting calm water, well-kept swims and the kind of setting that encourages longer sessions and return visits. This environment can play a big part in why some anglers call it their first choice venue when they want reliable coarse fishing without travelling too far.

For potential customers weighing up whether to visit, Midland Game Fisheries presents a mix of strong positives and practical considerations. On the positive side, there are multiple well-stocked lakes, good fish health, decent facilities, and reports of very productive days for both carp and mixed-bag anglers. On the more critical side, visitors should be prepared for a sometimes busy venue, an access road that has drawn complaints, and the need to plan ahead to secure a peg, ideally confirming any booking or availability details directly with the fishery to avoid disappointment. Taken as a whole, it is a fishery that appeals to those who prioritise active coarse fishing lakes with plenty of bites and solid management, while accepting that popularity and rural infrastructure can occasionally bring a few frustrations alongside the rewards.