Upham Farm Fishing

Upham Farm Fishing is a long‑established coarse fishery that appeals to anglers looking for varied waters, a relaxed atmosphere and the chance of quality carp and tench without the intensity of heavily commercialised venues. The site has built its reputation over decades, and many visitors regard it as a place they return to regularly for straightforward, enjoyable sessions rather than high‑pressure match conditions.

The fishery developed from a single spring‑fed pond into a multi‑lake complex, and that gradual growth still shows in the layout and character of the water. Ponds were added over time and stocked with carp of different sizes, with tench introduced as the venue became more established, creating a mixed fishery that offers both steady bites and the possibility of better‑sized fish. This background is important for anyone considering a visit, because it explains why Upham Farm Fishing tends to suit anglers who like traditional venues with some history behind them rather than brand‑new commercial pools.

Lakes, stocking and species

One of the key attractions of Upham Farm Fishing is the number of ponds available, giving anglers options for different styles of coarse angling. Visitors refer to multiple ponds, including those labelled 1–6 and a larger specimen‑style pond often described as pond 7, which together create a venue capable of catering for short family sessions, longer stays and more focused carp fishing.

The complex is best known as a carp fishery, with fish reported well into double figures and beyond, and some sources mentioning carp up to the high twenties in pounds. Anglers describe catching steady numbers of carp between low and mid doubles on session‑length trips, suggesting that while it is not a runs water at all times, consistent action is possible when conditions and approach are right.

Beyond carp, Upham Farm Fishing is also a classic coarse fishing lakes venue, with tench, perch, bream and silver fish present in good numbers. Reports from visitors mention bags of perch and bream as well as general mixed catches, which is encouraging for anyone taking children or newcomers who simply want plenty of bites without targeting a specific specimen. For those who like variety, this mix of species makes it more than just a single‑species water and helps justify its place among Devon’s broader network of coarse venues.

Layout, banks and general environment

Anglers often remark on how well kept the grounds are, which makes a noticeable difference to the overall experience. Pegs are generally tidy and accessible, with clear banks around the ponds and enough space for standard coarse and carp fishing tackle without feeling cramped. The layout lends itself to relaxed day sessions where you can set up comfortably for float, feeder or method approaches.

The fishery has gained a reputation for being peaceful and tranquil, which many anglers appreciate when choosing where to spend a day or a longer stay. It tends to attract a mix of regulars and visiting holiday anglers, and several accounts note that even on busier days, such as warm weekends, the setting remains calm enough to enjoy the water without constant noise or disruption. For those wanting a traditional stillwater feel rather than a heavily built‑up complex, this aspect is a significant positive.

Suitability for different anglers

Upham Farm Fishing is often highlighted as a good choice for beginners, lapsed anglers and families looking to get back into the sport. The easier ponds offer reliable action, with numerous fish to be caught even on shorter half‑day sessions, which helps build confidence for those still learning rigs, feeding patterns and bite detection. Coarse anglers who enjoy float fishing for mixed bags, especially on lighter gear, will find plenty of opportunity here.

More experienced carp anglers are likely to focus on the larger, more challenging water often referred to as the specimen pond. Reports mention that this water can be demanding, with fewer takes but significantly bigger fish, including carp over twenty pounds and talk of fish around the thirty‑pound mark, which many anglers find particularly satisfying when they finally land one. This split between easier and harder waters means the venue covers both general coarse fishing and more focused day ticket carp fishing in one place.

On‑site facilities and practicalities

In terms of facilities, Upham Farm Fishing offers the essentials for a day’s angling, including parking on site and basic amenities such as toilets. Some anglers mention that the parking area provides plenty of space, which is useful if you are bringing larger barrows, multiple rods or family equipment. The fishery also makes use of simple, practical rules designed to protect the fish stocks and ensure anglers behave responsibly, much like other established commercial fisheries in the region, though detailed regulations are typically confirmed on arrival or via the official channels rather than publicised in depth elsewhere.

One point raised by visitors is that obvious café‑style facilities are not front and centre, and a few anglers note that they did not see additional services such as a permanent tackle shop during their visit. While this does not affect the quality of the fishing itself, it does mean that arriving well prepared with bait, end tackle and refreshments is sensible, particularly if you are planning a long session or fishing with children. Compared with some modern fishing complexes that emphasise on‑site retail and food, Upham Farm Fishing leans more towards a traditional, self‑sufficient approach.

Fish condition and catch reports

A consistent theme in feedback is the condition of the fish, which many anglers describe as healthy and hard‑fighting. Carp are often noted for their good shape and strength, while perch, bream and other species appear well looked after, reinforcing the impression that the venue takes stock management seriously. For day ticket anglers paying particular attention to fish welfare and presentation, this is a reassuring factor.

Catch reports vary, as they do on any open‑access coarse venue, but several accounts describe productive sessions with multiple carp and mixed bags of silvers. It is not uncommon to hear of anglers taking a number of carp in the mid‑single to low‑double range over 24–60 hours, alongside steady catches of perch and other coarse species on float or light feeder tactics. At the same time, there are acknowledgements that the larger pond in particular can be demanding, with blanks possible if conditions are against you or tactics are not adjusted to suit, which is a realistic aspect that experienced anglers will recognise.

Strengths for potential visitors

• A multi‑pond layout offering both easier waters and a more demanding specimen‑style pond, which suits a broad range of anglers from beginners to experienced carp specialists.
• Good reputation for carp lakes with fish reaching into the higher weight brackets, alongside tench and plenty of silver fish, providing both target‑driven and general coarse sport.
• Well kept grounds and a generally peaceful setting, which many visitors value when choosing somewhere to fish for the day or during a longer stay.
• Fish welfare appears to be taken seriously, with carp and other species reported to be in good condition and fighting strongly, indicating responsible stock management and sensible fishery rules.
• Accessibility for newer anglers and those returning to the sport, who can gain confidence on the easier ponds while still having the option to progress to more challenging waters later.

Limitations and points to consider

While Upham Farm Fishing has many strengths, it is not without limitations that potential visitors should weigh up. Some anglers comment on the lack of clearly visible extra facilities such as a permanent on‑site tackle shop or café, which may be seen as a drawback compared with some modern fishing lakes that offer extensive services. For anglers who prefer venues with full hospitality, this more stripped‑back approach may feel basic.

The specimen‑style pond, though attractive for its larger carp, is described as hard going at times, meaning that results can be inconsistent and blanks are possible even for capable anglers. For some this is part of the appeal, but for those who expect non‑stop action from a day ticket carp lake, the reality may feel more demanding than anticipated. In addition, busier days can see multiple anglers on several ponds, and while most visitors still find the atmosphere calm, those seeking total seclusion might need to adjust expectations or choose quieter mid‑week sessions.

Who Upham Farm Fishing will suit

Overall, Upham Farm Fishing is well suited to coarse anglers who value straightforward access, varied waters and a balance between regular action and the chance of better‑sized fish. It offers an appealing mix of accessible coarse fishing lakes for pleasure anglers and a more challenging water for those who like to focus on larger carp and test their watercraft. Families, returning anglers and regulars looking for a relaxed, traditional fishery are likely to feel at home here, provided they arrive prepared with their own bait and tackle.

For prospective visitors comparing fishing venues in Devon, Upham Farm Fishing stands out as a well‑established, no‑nonsense option that prioritises fish, water quality and a calm setting over extensive commercial add‑ons. It is not the most heavily serviced complex and the more challenging pond will not guarantee results, but the overall package of multiple ponds, healthy stocks and a long‑standing reputation makes it a solid choice for anglers who want a genuine coarse fishery experience rather than a heavily staged attraction.