Hinderclay Lakes A Hidden Gem

This delightful fishery, located on the Norfolk, Suffolk border has in recent years earnt a reputation to match that of some of the country’s top fisheries. With six lakes all offering something different there is little wonder it is proving popular.
Every lake is stocked each year and well-managed but one of the quieter and scenic pools on the complex is Reed Pool. This 24-peg lilly-lined lake is natural in style and is a fantastic water for those looking for some nice sized fish with carp to 16lb as well as bream and tench to 10lb. The fish in here respond to a number of different tactics including the feeder and the waggler, which can be fished either in open water or tight to the lillies in the margins using pellet or corn as bait.

The most popular pool and the lake which has recently seen nets over 200lb being recorded in matches is Florence. This 20 peg water is stuffed with carp in the 7-8lb bracket and these can be caught on the pellet waggler or method feeder. Fishing tight to the island can work well here but the pole in open water in around 6ft of water with loose-fed pellet or corn can outscore any tactic when the fishing is good.
The complex also has a specimen lake named Spring Lake which has carp to 30lb as well as William Lake which is the venue’s silverfish pool. Arthur is similar to Florence while Willow Pool is an excellent lake for the beginner or for small matches as it is full of small carp in the 1-2lb bracket. All the lakes are available for club bookings and they also hold open matches every weekend.

MARK SAWYERS TIP: Try and use big pellets such as 8mm versions to make a splash when feeding as this will help attract the carp.

Venue Factfile
Hinderclay Lakes
Prices: £7 one rod £9 for two, concessions £5 for one rod, £7 for two. Night fishing is by appointment only
Contact: 01379 890110
Location: Hinderclay Lakes, Mill Lane, Rickinghall, Suffolk, IP22  1HG
Rules: Barbless only, no boillies, fishery own nets, no keepnets in pleasure sessions
Facilities: Parking, toilets, tackle & bait shop, accommodation 1 mile offsite