London may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about fishing, but there are actually plenty of fishing lakes in and around the city. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there are options for all skill levels.
One of the most popular fishing lakes in London is Beech Hill Lake, which was originally created in the 1880s as an estate lake for Squire Charles Jack. Today, it’s one of three lakes on the site and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Another popular option is The Dell, which is a 60-member syndicate and was dug in 2005/6 to serve as an irrigation reservoir for adjacent farms.
In fact, there are over 40 fishing lakes in London, each with its own unique character and fishing opportunities. From stillwaters to rivers and canals, there’s no shortage of places to cast a line and try your luck. So, whether you’re looking for a quiet day out or a chance to catch some big fish, London’s fishing lakes have something for everyone.
Popular Fishing Lakes in London
London is a bustling city with plenty of fishing opportunities for anglers. From man-made canals to rivers and stocked lakes, there is something for every angler. In this section, we will explore some of the popular fishing lakes in London.
Walthamstow Reservoirs
Walthamstow Reservoirs are located in Tottenham, near the centre of London. The reservoirs are made up of ten different waters, providing a variety of fishing opportunities. The reservoirs are home to a range of fish species, including carp, bream, roach, and pike. Anglers can fish from the bank or hire a boat to explore the waters further.
Redbridge Lakes
Redbridge Lakes is a popular fishing spot located in Woodford Green, East London. The lakes are stocked with a variety of fish species, including carp, bream, tench, and roach. The lakes are well-maintained and offer a peaceful fishing experience for anglers. Day tickets and season tickets are available for purchase.
Victoria Park Lakes
Victoria Park Lakes is a beautiful fishing spot located in the heart of London. The lakes are stocked with a variety of fish species, including carp, bream, and roach. Anglers can fish from the bank or hire a boat to explore the waters further. The lakes are well-maintained and offer a peaceful fishing experience for anglers.
Birchmere Lake
Birchmere Lake is a popular fishing spot located in Thamesmead, South East London. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish species, including carp, bream, and tench. The lake is well-maintained and offers a peaceful fishing experience for anglers. Day tickets and season tickets are available for purchase.
Orlitts Lake
Orlitts Lake is a great fishing spot located in Enfield, North London. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish species, including carp, bream, and tench. The lake is well-maintained and offers a peaceful fishing experience for anglers. Day tickets and season tickets are available for purchase.
Picks Cottage Fishing Lakes
Picks Cottage Fishing Lakes is a popular fishing spot located in South Ockendon, Essex, just outside of London. The lakes are stocked with a variety of fish species, including carp, bream, and tench. The lakes are well-maintained and offer a peaceful fishing experience for anglers. Day tickets and season tickets are available for purchase.
Baldwins Pond
Baldwins Pond is a beautiful fishing spot located in Eltham, South East London. The pond is stocked with a variety of fish species, including carp, bream, and tench. The pond is well-maintained and offers a peaceful fishing experience for anglers. Day tickets and season tickets are available for purchase.
Overall, London offers plenty of fishing opportunities for anglers. Whether you prefer man-made canals, rivers, or stocked lakes, there is something for everyone.
Species of Fish in London Lakes
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London’s lakes are home to a variety of freshwater fish species. Some of the most common species found in these lakes include carp, perch, eel, roach, bream, trout, rudd, tench, barbel, chub, pike, brown trout, gudgeon, zander, dace, flounder, mullet, mirror carp, common carp, grayling, rainbow trout, and salmon.
Coarse fish are the most common species found in London’s lakes. These fish are typically larger and more aggressive than other species, making them a popular target for anglers. Carp, in particular, are a popular species among anglers in London. These fish can grow to be quite large, with some specimens weighing in at over 40 pounds.
Game fish, such as trout and salmon, are also found in some of London’s lakes. These fish are typically smaller than coarse fish and can be more difficult to catch. However, they are prized for their fighting abilities and are a popular target for fly fishermen.
In addition to carp, other popular species found in London’s lakes include perch, eel, and roach. These fish are typically smaller than carp but can still provide a fun and challenging fishing experience.
Overall, London’s lakes offer a diverse range of fish species for anglers to target. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s something for everyone in these waters. Just remember to follow local fishing regulations and practice catch-and-release to help preserve these valuable resources for future generations.
Additional Information for Anglers
For angling enthusiasts, London offers a variety of fishing venues that cater to different fishing styles. Coarse fishing, fly fishing, and carp fishing are some of the popular fishing techniques practiced in the city’s waters.
Anglers looking to fish in stillwaters can visit West Lake, East Lake, and Park Lakes. These tranquil lakes provide an excellent opportunity for anglers to catch carp, tench, and bream. The Specimen Lake at Bury Hill Fisheries is another popular spot for carp fishing in London.
Night fishing is also available at some fisheries, including Tylers Common Fishery and Harwood Hall. However, it is essential to check the rules and regulations of the fishery before planning a night fishing session.
For those interested in river fishing, the River Wandle and the River Lea offer excellent opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. The River Lea Angler’s Club is a popular fishing club that offers membership to anglers interested in fishing in the River Lea.
Anglers must ensure that they have the necessary equipment before heading out for a fishing session. A suitable unhooking mat, landing net, and fishing rod are some of the essential tools that anglers should carry.
It is also important to note that some fishing venues require anglers to have a fishing license. Thames Water and Lambeth Council are some of the organizations that offer fishing licenses in London.
Finally, anglers must practice catch and release to preserve the fish population in London’s waters. Lure fishing is also a popular technique for catch and release fishing. Anglers must also be aware of the weirs and other potential hazards in the rivers and canals.
In conclusion, fishing in London offers a unique angling experience. With the right equipment, fishing license, and knowledge of the rules and regulations, anglers can enjoy a successful fishing session in the city’s waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best fishing spots in London?
London has a variety of fishing spots, including rivers, canals, and lakes. Some of the best fishing spots in London include Epping Forest, River Thames, River Lea, and Walthamstow Reservoirs. These spots offer a range of fish species to catch, such as carp, pike, bream, and roach.
Are there any day ticket fishing lakes near me in London?
Yes, there are several day ticket fishing lakes in London. Some popular options include Thorpe Lea Fishery, Gold Valley Lakes, and Willinghurst Fisheries. These lakes offer a range of fish species to catch, such as carp, tench, and roach. It is important to note that some of these lakes may require advance booking.
Can I fish for free in London? If so, where?
Yes, there are some free fishing spots in London. Some of the free fishing spots include the River Thames, River Lee Navigation, and Regent’s Canal. However, it is important to check the local fishing regulations before fishing in these spots.
What are some private fishing lakes near me in London?
There are several private fishing lakes in London, such as Walthamstow Reservoirs, Gold Valley Lakes, and Willinghurst Fisheries. These lakes offer a range of fish species to catch and may require advance booking.
Is it legal to fish in London’s lakes?
Yes, it is legal to fish in London’s lakes as long as you have a valid fishing license. It is important to check local fishing regulations before fishing in any of the lakes.
Are there any bass fishing opportunities in London’s lakes?
Yes, there are some bass fishing opportunities in London’s lakes, such as Walthamstow Reservoirs and Thorpe Lea Fishery. However, it is important to note that bass fishing is only allowed during specific times of the year and may require a special permit.