Carp Fishing

Although Barston Lake has been fished on and off since it was created more than 25 years ago, little is known of the original resident stocks of fish, although it had a reputation amongst locals for holding some big carp which are believed to run to more than 30lbs and decent heads of bream, roach to over 1lb, rudd and tench to about 8lbs.

However, these fish have been supplemented with more than 14,000 Common and Mirror Carp , some 3,500 roach and perch and more than 750 Common and Mirror Carp up to 20lbs were introduced from British Waterways' Naseby Reservoir.  These fish are now showing regularly and are stacking on the weight because Barston Lake is such a large water with plenty of natural food.  In addition to "the scar" at 30lbs 6oz fish which was caught in mid-May 2005, lots of other mid - high 20s have already been caught.

As a result, Barston is quickly attracting a regular and growing following amongst specialist carp anglers from throughout the Midlands, who can bivvy up near their pegs and fish for virtually as long as they wish.  Best results for the carp seem to be had by night anglers fishing two or three rods using boilees and modern carp fishing techniques along the left hand bank.

However, this bank is most popular simply because you can drive your car to the pegs. If you are prepared to walk along the right hand bank there are plenty of areas where you can bivvy up which are much quieter but where the fishing is equally good.  If you are planning to stay overnight or for a longer period, it may well pay you to try this bank, particularly if you want to enjoy a bit more solitude!  However make sure that you check the sign in the shop for the forthcoming matches as club matches are held on this bank at the weekends.

Night fishing is allowed but all anglers must be members.  Membership is available to anyone subject to the terms indicated on the form and is free to join, please see application form link at the bottom of the page.

Customer pictures of Carp caught at The Lake at Barston.

Anglers - Please report any big fish to us with photos if possible.

Download leaflet & Night Angling membership application form