Old Hall Farm Fishery

Old Hall Farm Fishery offers a mixed experience for anglers who value peaceful surroundings as much as the catch itself, combining attractive lakes with fishing that can be rewarding but sometimes demanding. Set within farmland, it focuses on stillwater coarse angling, with several lakes that appeal particularly to those who enjoy thoughtful sessions rather than instant action.

Many visitors are drawn by the setting as much as by the fishing. Anglers regularly mention how picturesque the lakes are, with open water framed by trees and countryside views that make long sessions feel relaxing rather than tiring. Choosing the right peg can give wide views across the water, which some describe as one of the main reasons they return, even when the fishing is not straightforward.

In terms of species and methods, Old Hall Farm Fishery caters mainly to coarse anglers targeting carp and mixed silvers. It suits those who enjoy methodical approaches with carp fishing tactics such as method feeders, wafters and hair rigs, as well as traditional float work for roach, bream and smaller carp. While it is not presented as a highly commercial venue packed with fish, it can appeal to anglers who like venues that require watercraft, patience and careful baiting.

Feedback about the stock levels shows a clear divide between those who appreciate the challenge and those who expect more consistent action. On Lake 1, some anglers note that the surroundings are beautiful but that the fish they caught were on the small side, which can be disappointing if you arrive hoping for specimen carp. Others, particularly those who have fished the complex on several occasions, feel that the venue rewards persistence and time spent understanding each lake’s features.

Lake 3 is often mentioned as the water that holds the bigger fish, with carp that can provide exciting battles when hooked. However, several anglers comment that bites can be few and far between, and that this lake can feel "hard going" compared with more heavily stocked commercials. For experienced coarse anglers who enjoy working out a venue, this difficulty can add interest. For newer anglers or those wanting steady action for a day out, the slower sport may be frustrating.

Lake 2 is sometimes described as weedy, which influences the tactics needed. Anglers targeting this water often need stronger lines, careful rig presentation and regular checks to ensure hooks and leads are not fouled by weed. For some, this adds a level of challenge similar to more natural waters, rewarding accurate casting and precise feeding. For others, the weed can feel like an obstacle that reduces effective fishing time, especially if they are not used to tackling these conditions.

One aspect that sets Old Hall Farm Fishery apart from many other day-ticket stillwaters is the charitable purpose behind its ticket income. Several anglers mention that the day-ticket money is directed to a hospice, which gives visits an additional sense of purpose beyond personal enjoyment. For some customers, supporting a venue that contributes to hospice care makes them more inclined to return, even if the fishing itself can be demanding.

The on-site bailiffs are frequently highlighted as one of the strongest points of the fishery. Many anglers describe them as friendly, approachable and genuinely helpful, willing to offer advice on productive swims, suitable rigs and bait choices. For less experienced anglers, this guidance can make the difference between a blank session and a few well-earned fish. Their presence also reassures visitors about fish care and behaviour on the bank, contributing to an atmosphere that feels safe and respectful.

Service extends beyond simple ticket checks. There are reports of bailiffs offering assistance when an angler in the party had a minor injury, showing a level of care that goes beyond what many venues provide. This builds trust and loyalty among visitors who value not just the fishing but the human side of the experience. For families or anglers with additional needs, knowing that staff on site are attentive and supportive can be a decisive factor when choosing a venue.

On the less positive side, some basic facilities at Old Hall Farm Fishery attract repeated criticism. The most common issue mentioned is the state of the toilets, which several anglers describe as poorly maintained and unpleasant to use. For some potential customers, this is enough to deter repeat visits, particularly on longer sessions or for those who rely on clean facilities for comfort and accessibility.

This contrast between the care shown by the bailiffs and the condition of certain facilities suggests that while the fishery has strong people-focused values, it may benefit from more regular investment in infrastructure. Anglers often comment that the venue "could do with a facelift", referring not only to toilets but also to general tidiness, bankside access and cosmetic improvements around the lakes. These are not necessarily major structural issues but small upgrades that would significantly improve first impressions.

The catch rates and lake management also receive mixed feedback. Some anglers note that Lake 1 has been closed at times, and that Lake 2 can be so weedy that large areas become difficult to fish effectively. Others mention that although Lake 3 holds quality fish, overall stocking levels feel light, leading to long spells without bites. For a venue charging a day ticket, anglers naturally compare this experience with more heavily stocked commercial fisheries where regular action is standard.

However, for those who prefer venues that retain a more natural feel, Old Hall Farm Fishery’s approach can be attractive. The lakes are not dominated by platforms and manicured pegs; instead, they keep more of a traditional farm-pond character. This appeals to anglers who value quiet banks, wildlife and slower-paced sessions over constant bagging. In this sense, it occupies a niche between heavily engineered commercials and completely wild waters.

The overall ambience is generally quiet, with several reviewers noting that there are often relatively few anglers on the banks. This can be a positive for those seeking calm sessions with plenty of space, but may also reflect that the venue has not developed the same popularity as more intensively stocked day ticket fisheries in the region. For some, the lack of crowds is part of the attraction; for others, it may raise questions about how reliable the fishing is.

Old Hall Farm Fishery is best suited to anglers who enjoy taking time to work out a water rather than counting fish at the end of the day. Those who take pleasure in fine-tuning rigs, testing different baits and watching watercraft signs such as bubbling, rolling fish or windward margins will find plenty to think about here. When the approach comes together, the rewards can be satisfying, particularly on the lakes known for holding larger carp.

From a practical point of view, visitors appreciate that the fishery is accessible for day trips and that there are clear rules enforced by the bailiffs to protect both the fish and the venue. As with many coarse fishing venues, anglers are expected to bring appropriate equipment such as unhooking mats, barbless hooks and suitable nets. Those used to modern carp fishing tackle will find the venue compatible with their existing gear, while traditionalists using wagglers and pole tactics can still enjoy targeting smaller fish where they are more plentiful.

One area where expectations need to be managed is the difficulty level. Several anglers explicitly state that they find the venue hard to "crack", with sessions that may pass without significant action until the right swim, depth and bait combination is found. Anglers arriving with the mindset of a high-stock carp fishery may leave disappointed, while those prepared for a challenge often feel that the eventual fish are more meaningful because they are earned rather than automatic.

Balancing all these points, Old Hall Farm Fishery stands out less as a venue for fast-paced match-style sessions and more as a place for reflective, sometimes demanding coarse angling. The commitment to donating day-ticket income to a hospice, the friendly and proactive bailiffs and the attractive lakes all work in its favour. On the other hand, dated facilities, variable weed control and modest stocking levels on certain lakes are recurring concerns that potential visitors should consider.

For potential customers weighing up a visit, the key is to match expectations to what the venue actually offers. Anglers seeking quiet banks, natural-looking lakes and the chance of a meaningful carp from waters that do not feel over-managed will likely find Old Hall Farm Fishery appealing. Those who prioritise immaculate facilities, heavily stocked waters and constant action may prefer alternative fishing lakes that are run on a more commercial model.

Ultimately, Old Hall Farm Fishery provides a particular style of coarse fishing venue: scenic, values-driven and supported by attentive bailiffs, yet with room for improvement in basic amenities and fishery maintenance. For the right angler, especially one who appreciates a challenge and wants their day-ticket money to support a hospice, it can be a rewarding place to spend time by the water.