Redmire pool is drained

Britain’s most famous carp lake has been drained as work begins to restore it to its former glory.

Photographs have emerged on social media of an almost empty Redmire Pool after Angling Times revealed plans for its rejuvenation earlier this year.

The work is being managed by fisheries scientist and Ashmead Fishery owner Mark Walsingham, who said: “After two exceptionally hard days’ work by the netting team, we have successfully removed all the fish in good health.”

Talking exclusively to Angling Times, Mark added: “I will let everyone know what’s happening as each stage of the project is completed. 

Before work began, Mark confirmed the intended plan for Redmire, stating that de-silting is a major aspect of the work. 

He continued: “It’s an invasive process and care must be taken, as there’s always a risk to the fish. 

“To prevent future silt build-up, silt traps will be installed, and the agricultural ground surrounding the lake will be used for grazing as opposed to farming. 

“We will also inspect the dam to make sure it’s sound and secure, and we plan to otter-fence the fishery to protect the stock. 

“All this is as much about preserving the fish as it is the lake. As such, the rogue ghost carp that ended up in the water will be removed, as will any fish not in photographs from 14 years ago. 

“This will ensure that the remaining stock will be from the true Galician carp bloodline of Donald Leney’s stocking all those years ago. We also have to sustain the element of mystery at Redmire, so only a select few will know what remains.” 

In the past, Redmire Pool has produced British record carp for Dick Walker and Chris Yates.