**DOWNLOAD THE 3rd EDITION OF OUR BANKSIDE HANDBOOK- CLICK HERE!!!**See Activities for Kids this Winter **

WATER LEVELS: Due to serious drought in the region we have already closed the doughnut and Jacobs creek along with pegs 22 to 28 on the Big Lake, for fish and angler safety. The Traditional Lake has now re-opened due to raised water levels but still please fish with care.  Match lake 1 is open for day anglers but pegs 16 to 19 are closed for NIGHT FISHING, all other night fishing pegs are still available for bookings.  There are now 12 fishable swims on the Canal.

Anglers are advised to call before travelling long distances for updates on levels. Anglers must also ensure they pack their waders as they may have to walk into the water to catch and release fish. 

Thank you for your continued support - SWP Team

***FOR CAFE ENQUIRIES CALL 01473 830414   ***FOR FISHERY INFO CALL 01473 832327 BETWEEN OPENING HOURS ONLY

FAQS

General Questions

Q. What are the fishery rules?
A. See The Rules page.

Q. What are the opening hours?
A. We open at 7:00am, 7 days a week all year round. Closing times vary in different seasons so check the closing times on the website.

Q. Do you cater for disabled anglers?
A. Disabled anglers are welcome to our fishery so have a look at the Disability Access page under “Our Facilities”.  You can always contact us first to discuss any needs.  

Q. Which is the best lake for beginners?
A. Our Canal or Match Lake 3 are probably the best lakes for beginners.  If you’re starting Carp fishing we recommend starting on Match Lake 1 and then progressing onto the Traditional Lake before attempting the Big Lake.

Q. Can I use a keep-net?
A. Keep-nets can only be used in organised matches.

Q. Are there refreshments available?
A. Yes, we sell snacks, hot & cold drinks and ice-creams in the shop. 

We have a Burger Van visit the main Carpark every Saturday from 4pm until 7pm in the warmer months plus various takeaways deliver to us (see Takeaway section on website and App). 

The onsite Waterfront Diner offers amazing breakfasts and a great selection of hot/cold food and drink. They are open from 7am until 2.30pm every day. 

Q. Do you have toilet facilities?
A. We have a number of portable toilets located around the site, plus the toilets in the café including a disabled toilet. We also now have 2 toilets (one being accessible and for ladies – key on request) and a nice shower to the rear of the Ticket Office and shop!

Q. Where's the best place to fish?
A. The best place to fish varies from day to day depending on time of year and conditions. You are best to seek the advice of our fishery staff on arrival at the ticket office.

Q. Can I night fish?
A. Night fishing is only available on our Big Lake, Traditional Lake (16 pegs) and Match Lake 1 (8 pegs). We do not allow night fishing for Pike.

Q. Can I pre-book a swim?
A. Yes, you can book a position/ slot on the Traditional Lake and Match Lake 1 (not any specific pegs) and you can book Peg 27 (Flag Pole) and Peg 31 on the Big Lake. Please call us on 01473 832327 to book in (we cannot take bookings via email).

Q. Do you have shower facilities?
A. Yes we now have a new Shower located behind the ticket office and shop.  Please ask a member of staff, donate £1 (towards running costs) and receive the key and a small towel for your feet.  Please return the key & towel after use.

Q. How many rods can I use?
A. Up to three rods can be used on our Big Lake and up to two rods on our Match and Traditional lakes. Day ticket prices vary accordingly.

Q. Can I bring a spectator?
A. Yes, you can bring a spectator but all visitors (not spectators or non-fishing guests) need to report to the main ticket office and receive a visitor ticket or pay £3 to visit for over 1 hour.   Guests staying overnight with anglers are free of charge.

Q. How old do I have to be to fish unaccompanied?
A. You can fish unaccompanied from the age of 18. All under 18-year olds need to be supervised by an adult at ALL times. 


Carp Fishing

Q. Are bait boats allowed?

A. Only on the Big Lake from pegs 1 to 10 - but please ensure you do not cut across other anglers.

Q. Can I use lead core or braid?
A. Lead core can be used with due care and attention so that carp cannot be tethered.  Braid may only be used as a hook-link but NO BRAIDED MAINLINE.

Q. How many swims do you have?
A. We have 37 spacious swims on the Big Lake.

Q. Can I buy bait and tackle onsite?
A. Yes, we have a well-equipped bait and tackle shop.  Have a look at the BEX Bait and Tackle page for more info.

Q. Will you assist with photography?
A. Yes. Fishery staff will help with any photo-worthy big carp (or pike) if we’re available.  Other anglers are usually friendly enough to assist you too!

See also Carp Rules


Pike Fishing

Q. Is live bait allowed?

A. We do not allow live bait but have dead bait in the freezer in the shop.

Q. When can I pike fish?
A. The pike season usually runs from October time when the water temperature hits below 10Oc   until the 31st of March. Please call the shop for more accurate information.

Q. Can I night fish for pike?
A. No. Night fishing for pike is not allowed. We feel this is an unsafe practice.

Q. Will you assist with photography?
A. Yes. Fishery staff will help with any photo worthy big pike (or carp).

See also Pike Rules


Match fishing

Q. How many keep-nets do I need for a match?

A. You need two keep-nets - one for silver fish and one for carp.

Q. Are there bait restrictions?
A. In matches, we do not allow cat food, nuts or floating baits.

Q. What is the time scale for a match?
A. For Sat/Sun matches, we draw at 8.30am and fish the match between 10am and 3pm (5 hours). All matches must be no longer than the 5 hours.

See also Match Rules.

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