
Best Day Ticket Carp Lakes in the UK: My Top 3
When it comes to carp fishing, the UK boasts some of the finest day-ticket waters in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned carp angler chasing monster fish or a newcomer seeking a relaxing session, these lakes offer something for everyone. Andy Leather shares his top three favourite day-ticket carp waters, each offering incredible opportunities to land the fish of a lifetime.
#1 – Bluebell Lakes (Tansor)
Phone: 01832 226042
Website: bluebell-lakes.co.uk
At the top of the list is the exceptional Bluebell Lakes complex in Peterborough. This renowned fishery comprises five lakes – Bluebell, Mallard, Sandmartin, Swan, and Kingfisher – along with a small stretch of the River Nene. Each lake caters to anglers of varying experience levels, from beginners fishing Bluebell Lake to seasoned anglers tackling the challenging Kingfisher.
Highlights:
- 50lb-plus carp: Four of the lakes hold carp over 50lb, including Tilly, a stunning common carp in Sandmartin that tips the scales at over 55lb.
- Diverse fishing: From carp to colossal catfish over 100lb, Swan Lake offers unique challenges and rewards.
- Facilities: A well-stocked tackle shop, along with clean shower and toilet facilities for both male and female anglers.
- Social-media updates: Follow head bailiff Trevor on Instagram (bluebell_lakes_bailiff) for real-time updates and catch reports.
Andy’s Tip: Swan Lake holds a special place in my heart – it’s where I caught my personal best of 53lb back in 2019. The effort was worth every second!
#2 – Linear Fisheries (Witney)
Phone: 07885 327708
Website: linear-fisheries.co.uk
Coming in a close second is the iconic Linear Fisheries in Oxfordshire. Known for its 12 specimen carp lakes and three smaller pools for general coarse fishing, this complex is a magnet for serious anglers and beginners alike.
Highlights:
- Famous anglers: Linear has seen the likes of Terry Hearn, Frank Warwick, Adam Penning, and DNA’s own Mark Bartlett grace its waters. Tom Maker, synonymous with Linear, has landed many incredible catches here.
- Carp galore: Brasenose 1 is the jewel of the complex, with the majority of lakes holding carp over 40lb. St Johns also boasts catfish exceeding 100lb.
- Booking options: Lakes like Manor Farm and Hunts Corner require pre-booking via the GoCatch app, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Facilities: A comprehensive tackle shop, shower and toilet blocks, and nightly peg availability updates on their Facebook page.
Andy’s Tip: Check the Facebook page for real-time updates on peg availability and bookings. It’s a lifesaver during busy periods.
#3 – Farlows Lake (Iver)
Phone: 01753 630302
Website: farlowslake.co.uk
A staple of UK day-ticket carp fisheries, Farlows Lake in Buckinghamshire offers incredible opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. With a long history of producing stunning fish, it’s a must-visit for any carp enthusiast.
Highlights:
- Big carp potential: The 25-acre Main Lake is home to over 1,100 carp, including specimens over 45lb. There are around 30+ fish exceeding 30lb and several over 40lb.
- Diverse challenges: The smaller Lake 2 offers over 500 carp, including a good number of 20lb-plus fish and a handful of 30lb-plus specimens.
- Expert guidance: The knowledgeable bailiff team is always on hand to provide tips and advice on hotspots and successful tactics.
- Facilities: Clean shower and toilet blocks, an on-site tackle shop, and a café serving hot and cold food, drinks, and snacks.
Andy’s Tip: In summer, the Main Lake can get quite weedy. Brush up on your weedy-water tactics or ask the bailiffs for advice to maximize your chances.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re targeting a new PB or simply enjoying a day on the bank, these three day-ticket fisheries offer some of the best carp fishing in the UK. From the 50lb-plus carp of Bluebell Lakes to the rich history of Linear Fisheries and the stunning mirrors that inhabit Farlows, each venue promises something to cater for all types of carp anglers.
Other related carp fishing articles:
5 Tips to Improve Your Catch Rate by Perry Alabaster
My Three Favourite DNA Products to Catch Carp by Luke Church