Fishery guide · Cambridgeshire
Decoy Lakes
Decoy Lakes at Whittlesey is a proper mixed coarse and match venue, with 11 fishing lakes and an advertised 274 pegs. Adult day tickets are £10, but check the conflicting opening hours before loading the car.
“7.7/10 — Eleven fishing lakes and a mix including carp, F1s, tench, barbel and silver fish give plenty of angling choice.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Decoy Lakes in Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire, is a sizeable option for a coarse-fishing day out: 11 fishing lakes and an advertised total of 274 pegs. There’s plenty of choice here, whether you fancy carp or a mixed bag rather than making everything about one big bite. The postcode is PE7 2AD.
- 8 lakes: Beastie, Damson, Oak, Yew, Elm, Cedar, Lou’s, Willow
- Fish: carp, tench, crucian, roach, rudd, barbel
- Tickets from: Adult day fishing ticket — £10
- Find it: Whittlesey · PE7 2AD
Plan your session
Fishery map of Decoy Lakes
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Richard Humphrey. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Decoy Lakes
Decoy Lakes in Whittlesey, Cambridgeshire, is a sizeable option for a coarse-fishing day out: 11 fishing lakes and an advertised total of 274 pegs. There’s plenty of choice here, whether you fancy carp or a mixed bag rather than making everything about one big bite. The postcode is PE7 2AD. We haven’t fished it ourselves, so this is a look at what’s on offer, not a tale about getting bagged up.
Beastie is described as the largest lake, with 31 pegs, a stated depth of 5ft, carp to 21lb, F1s and tench. Damson has 26 pegs and fish listed to 24lb, though that figure doesn’t identify the species. Oak and Yew each have 30 pegs, Elm has 24 and Cedar has 26. The strip lakes are described as 5ft 6in deep with F1s, barbel and carp; individual stocking details for those named lakes aren’t spelled out.
For a different mix, Lou’s has 15 pegs and is the shallowest lake, holding carp, crucians, roach and rudd. Willow offers 35 pegs, depths of 4–6ft, and carp, F1s and barbel. Horseshoe has 20 pegs, approximately 5ft of water and carp to 20lb. Four Islands brings 10 pegs, depths up to 6ft, F1s, tench, roach and carp. Six Islands has 25 pegs, depths from 1–5ft, and carp and tench. The stock pond is strictly off limits.
The rules give you a clear steer on packing. It’s one rod or pole in use at a time, with barbless hooks no larger than size 12. Bring your own nets, land every fish with a net and fish from the platforms only. Day-ticket anglers use landing nets only; match anglers need at least three keepnets, with a 60lb limit per net. Boilies, nuts and artificial baits are out. Bread gets a seasonal window, November 1–March 1, so don’t assume it’s a year-round option.
Off the bank, there’s a tackle and bait shop, cafeteria, licensed bar, toilets and a shower. Parking includes spaces near pegs for less-able anglers, which is useful to know before organising a visit. On-site accommodation is available too. Fancy a sit-down breakfast with your group? That needs prebooking and a minimum of ten people. Pets aren’t permitted, so the dog will need to sit this one out rather than join you beside the platform.
An adult day ticket is £10 and a child ticket is £5, with adult accompaniment required. Sort your arrival before setting off: the headline summer and winter hours differ from the rules-section day-ticket hours, and no day tickets are sold after 11:00. Bookings and enquiries go through the fishery. There’s no published night-fishing offer or tariff on the official homepage, so accommodation shouldn’t be taken as permission to fish overnight. A quick call should save a wasted journey and a load of faff.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
We haven’t found any public angler reviews of this venue yet. Fished it? Add yours below.
Decoy Lakes FAQs
How much are day tickets?
Adult day fishing is £10 and child day fishing is £5. Children need adult accompaniment, and no day tickets are sold after 11:00.
What time does Decoy open?
Headline hours are summer 08:00–17:00 and winter 08:00–16:00. The rules section instead gives day-ticket hours of summer 09:00–16:30 and winter 08:30–16:00. Confirm before visiting with the fishery.
Can I night fish or stay on site?
On-site accommodation is available, but the official homepage has no published night-fishing offer or tariff. Don’t assume staying over includes overnight fishing; ask the fishery.
Can we get breakfast, and is there parking near the pegs?
Sit-down breakfasts need prebooking for at least ten people. Parking includes spaces near pegs for less-able anglers; check arrangements when you enquire.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's tackle and bait shop on site, so you can grab bits on the day. For anything bigger, stock up before you leave home — or order online in advance.
Do I need to bring food?
There's cafeteria listed, but opening times vary, so pack snacks and plenty of water just in case — especially on a long session.
Are there toilets on site?
Yes — the fishery lists toilets and shower.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
Yes — parking, including spaces near pegs for less-able anglers. Walks to the further pegs can be a trek, so a barrow helps.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
PE7 2AD.
How much is a ticket?
Adult day fishing ticket: £10; Child day fishing ticket: £5. Prices last checked 2026-10-03 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Beastie, Damson, Oak, Yew, Elm, Cedar, Lou’s, Willow. Busy weekends can fill up, so ring ahead if you've got your heart set on a swim.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find carp, tench, crucian, roach, rudd, barbel. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
8 — Beastie (Not published), Damson (Not published), Oak (Not published), Yew (Not published), Elm (Not published), Cedar (Not published), Lou’s (Not published), Willow (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Can I bring my dog?
Not covered in the rules we've checked. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Are bait boats allowed?
We haven't seen a bait-boat rule listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Do I need barbless hooks?
Yes, it's required — Barbless hooks only, with a maximum size of 12.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Bring one either way — most fisheries expect it and the fish deserve it.
Is it suitable for disabled anglers?
We haven't seen disabled access listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Do I need a rod licence?
Yes — anyone 13 or over fishing in England and Wales needs an Environment Agency rod licence (or Natural Resources Wales in Wales), on top of your fishery ticket.
When's the best time of year to fish here?
Late spring through autumn is prime for most species. Check our live weather edge for this venue before you go — it updates daily.
Anglers' photos
Been to Decoy Lakes? Share a snap
No angler photos yet. Be the first!
Day ticket · turn up
Beastie: the largest lake, with carp, f1s and tench
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench
Beastie is described as Decoy’s largest lake, with 31 pegs and a stated depth of 5ft. Its acreage isn’t published.
Carp are listed to 21lb, alongside F1s and tench. That gives it a clear mixed coarse appeal, with some bigger carp in the picture rather than just smaller bites.
Lake photographs
A look around Beastie
Decoy Lakes
Beastie
We’re checking the fishery’s Beastie pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers after carp, F1s and tench
- Those looking at the venue’s largest lake
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting a small, low-peg-count lake
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Beastie
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
Beastie FAQs
How many pegs does Beastie have?
31 pegs, with a stated depth of 5ft.
What fish are listed?
Carp to 21lb, F1s and tench; those weights aren’t a promise of what you’ll catch.
What's the lake record on Beastie?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Beastie that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Beastie?
carp, tench.
How big is Beastie and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The largest lake, with carp, F1s and tench.
Which baits work well on Beastie?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Beastie further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Beastie get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Beastie?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Decoy Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Beastie?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Beastie on a day ticket?
Yes — Beastie is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day fishing ticket £10; Child day fishing ticket £5 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Beastie?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Beastie suit?
Good for: Anglers after carp, F1s and tench; Those looking at the venue’s largest lake. Less suited to: Anyone wanting a small, low-peg-count lake.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Damson: 26 pegs, with fish listed to 24lb
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Damson has 26 pegs. Fish are listed to 24lb, but the supplied detail doesn’t say which species that weight refers to.
Worth keeping that distinction in mind before getting carried away about a possible PB. Depth and acreage aren’t published in the supplied details either.
Lake photographs
A look around Damson
Decoy Lakes
Damson
We’re checking the fishery’s Damson pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers considering a 26-peg lake
- Visitors happy to check the fish mix before choosing
Maybe not for
- Anyone needing confirmed species and depth details before travelling
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Damson
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Damson FAQs
How many pegs are on Damson?
26.
Are the fish listed to 24lb definitely carp?
The supplied details say fish to 24lb without naming the species, so we can’t call them carp.
What's the lake record on Damson?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Damson that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Damson?
carp.
How big is Damson and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. 26 pegs, with fish listed to 24lb.
Which baits work well on Damson?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Damson further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Damson get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Damson?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Decoy Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Damson?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Damson on a day ticket?
Yes — Damson is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day fishing ticket £10; Child day fishing ticket £5 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Damson?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Damson suit?
Good for: Anglers considering a 26-peg lake; Visitors happy to check the fish mix before choosing. Less suited to: Anyone needing confirmed species and depth details before travelling.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Oak: a 30-peg option at decoy
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Oak has 30 pegs, putting it among the higher peg counts in this selection. Its acreage isn’t published.
The supplied details don’t give Oak its own species list or depth. Check those bits with the fishery rather than assuming the general strip-lake description applies.
Lake photographs
A look around Oak
Decoy Lakes
Oak
We’re checking the fishery’s Oak pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Visitors considering a 30-peg lake
- Anglers happy to ask about the current lake options
Maybe not for
- Anyone needing a confirmed lake-specific stocking list
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Oak
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Oak FAQs
How many pegs does Oak have?
30 pegs.
What depth is Oak?
An individual depth for Oak isn’t specified in the supplied details.
What's the lake record on Oak?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Oak that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Oak?
carp.
How big is Oak and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A 30-peg option at Decoy.
Which baits work well on Oak?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Oak further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Oak get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Oak?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Decoy Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Oak?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Oak on a day ticket?
Yes — Oak is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day fishing ticket £10; Child day fishing ticket £5 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Oak?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Oak suit?
Good for: Visitors considering a 30-peg lake; Anglers happy to ask about the current lake options. Less suited to: Anyone needing a confirmed lake-specific stocking list.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Yew: another 30-peg choice
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Yew has 30 pegs, matching Oak’s peg count. That’s the confirmed lake-specific detail available here.
There’s no individual species list, acreage or depth supplied for Yew. Have a chat with the fishery if those details will decide where you put your gear down.
Lake photographs
A look around Yew
Decoy Lakes
Yew
We’re checking the fishery’s Yew pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Visitors weighing up the 30-peg lakes
- Anglers comfortable checking lake details before visiting
Maybe not for
- Those choosing solely from confirmed depth and species details
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Yew
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Yew FAQs
How many pegs are on Yew?
30.
Is Yew’s acreage published?
Not in the supplied details.
What's the lake record on Yew?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Yew that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Yew?
carp.
How big is Yew and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Another 30-peg choice.
Which baits work well on Yew?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Yew further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Yew get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Yew?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Decoy Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Yew?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Yew on a day ticket?
Yes — Yew is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day fishing ticket £10; Child day fishing ticket £5 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Yew?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Yew suit?
Good for: Visitors weighing up the 30-peg lakes; Anglers comfortable checking lake details before visiting. Less suited to: Those choosing solely from confirmed depth and species details.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Elm: 24 pegs, with finer details to check
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Elm has 24 pegs. That’s fewer than Oak, Yew or Cedar, though peg count alone doesn’t tell you the lake’s size or how much room each swim has.
Individual stocking and depth details aren’t supplied. Keep this one on your list, but check the fish mix before building a whole session around a particular species.
Lake photographs
A look around Elm
Decoy Lakes
Elm
We’re checking the fishery’s Elm pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers considering a 24-peg option
- Visitors happy to confirm the fish mix directly
Maybe not for
- Anyone needing published lake-specific depths
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Elm
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Elm FAQs
How many pegs does Elm have?
24 pegs.
Which species are confirmed for Elm?
The supplied details don’t give Elm an individual species list.
What's the lake record on Elm?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Elm that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Elm?
carp.
How big is Elm and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. 24 pegs, with finer details to check.
Which baits work well on Elm?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Elm further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Elm get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Elm?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Decoy Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Elm?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Elm on a day ticket?
Yes — Elm is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day fishing ticket £10; Child day fishing ticket £5 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Elm?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Elm suit?
Good for: Anglers considering a 24-peg option; Visitors happy to confirm the fish mix directly. Less suited to: Anyone needing published lake-specific depths.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Cedar: a 26-peg lake option
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Cedar has 26 pegs, the same advertised count as Damson. No acreage is published in the supplied details.
Its individual depth and species mix aren’t specified here. There’s no need to guess: ring the fishery if you’re choosing between Cedar and another lake.
Lake photographs
A look around Cedar
Decoy Lakes
Cedar
We’re checking the fishery’s Cedar pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Visitors considering a 26-peg lake
- Anglers happy to discuss lake choice with the fishery
Maybe not for
- Those needing a detailed stocking breakdown before choosing
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Cedar
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Cedar FAQs
How many pegs are on Cedar?
26.
Is Cedar’s depth confirmed here?
No individual depth is supplied for Cedar.
What's the lake record on Cedar?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Cedar that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Cedar?
carp.
How big is Cedar and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A 26-peg lake option.
Which baits work well on Cedar?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Cedar further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Cedar get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Cedar?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Decoy Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Cedar?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Cedar on a day ticket?
Yes — Cedar is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day fishing ticket £10; Child day fishing ticket £5 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Cedar?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Cedar suit?
Good for: Visitors considering a 26-peg lake; Anglers happy to discuss lake choice with the fishery. Less suited to: Those needing a detailed stocking breakdown before choosing.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Lou’s: the shallowest lake, with a cracking species mix
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, crucian, roach, rudd
Lou’s has 15 pegs and is described as the shallowest lake at Decoy. An exact depth isn’t given.
Carp, crucians, roach and rudd are listed. If your idea of a good day includes a mixed bag rather than carp alone, that’s a handy mix to have on your shortlist.
Lake photographs
A look around Lou’s
Decoy Lakes
Lou’s
We’re checking the fishery’s Lou’s pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Mixed-bag anglers
- Anglers interested in crucians, roach and rudd alongside carp
Maybe not for
- Those specifically looking for deeper water
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Lou’s
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
crucian
Delicate float for crucians
Crucian bites are tiny dips and lifts, so a sensitive float shotted right down is what catches them.
- Fish a small insert waggler or pole float over-depth by an inch.
- Corn, maggot or a 4mm pellet on a size 16–18.
- Strike at any small movement — crucians rarely bury the float.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
rudd
Floating baits and shallow float for rudd
Rudd feed high in the water, often near reeds and lilies on warm days. Fish up in the water to them, not on the bottom.
- A light waggler set 1–2ft deep with a single maggot or caster on a size 18.
- Loose-feed little and often to bring them up.
- Floating bread flake works brilliantly in summer.
Lou’s FAQs
How deep is Lou’s?
It’s described as the shallowest lake, but no exact depth is supplied.
What fish are listed in Lou’s?
Carp, crucians, roach and rudd.
What's the lake record on Lou’s?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Lou’s that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Lou’s?
carp, crucian, roach, rudd.
How big is Lou’s and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The shallowest lake, with a cracking species mix.
Which baits work well on Lou’s?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Lou’s further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Lou’s get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Lou’s?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Decoy Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Lou’s?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Lou’s on a day ticket?
Yes — Lou’s is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day fishing ticket £10; Child day fishing ticket £5 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Lou’s?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Lou’s suit?
Good for: Mixed-bag anglers; Anglers interested in crucians, roach and rudd alongside carp. Less suited to: Those specifically looking for deeper water.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Willow: 35 pegs with carp, f1s and barbel
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, barbel
Willow has 35 pegs and stated depths of 4–6ft. That’s the highest individual peg count among the named fishing lakes supplied.
Carp, F1s and barbel make up its listed mix. The depth range gives you more detail to work with when choosing a lake, though individual swim features aren’t specified.
Lake photographs
A look around Willow
Decoy Lakes
Willow
We’re checking the fishery’s Willow pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers after carp and F1s
- Those interested in barbel as part of the mix
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting a lake with only a handful of pegs
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Willow
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder. Use a strong rod and line, and rest them properly in the net before release.
- Halibut pellet or small boilie over a bed of pellet.
- Strong hooklink and a size 10–12 hook.
- Never hold barbel out of water long — keep them in the net until they've recovered.
Willow FAQs
How many pegs does Willow have?
35 pegs.
What are Willow’s depths and species?
Depths are listed as 4–6ft, with carp, F1s and barbel.
What's the lake record on Willow?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Willow that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Willow?
carp, barbel.
How big is Willow and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. 35 pegs with carp, F1s and barbel.
Which baits work well on Willow?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Willow further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Willow get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Willow?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Decoy Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Willow?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Willow on a day ticket?
Yes — Willow is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day fishing ticket £10; Child day fishing ticket £5 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Willow?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Willow suit?
Good for: Anglers after carp and F1s; Those interested in barbel as part of the mix. Less suited to: Anyone wanting a lake with only a handful of pegs.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- No
Can I use more than one rod or pole?
Only one rod or pole may be used simultaneously.
- Must
Must I use barbless hooks?
Barbless hooks only, with a maximum size of 12.
- Must
Do I need to bring my own nets?
Bring your own nets and net every fish. Day-ticket anglers use landing nets only; match anglers need at least three keepnets, with a 60lb maximum per net.
- Must
Must I fish from a platform?
Fishing is from platforms only. Fishing in the stock pond is prohibited.
- No
Can I bring a pet?
Pets are prohibited.
- No
Can I use boilies, nuts or artificial baits?
Boilies, nuts and artificial baits are prohibited.
- Seasonal
Can I use bread?
Bread is permitted November 1–March 1.
- No
Can children fish without an adult?
Child day tickets require adult accompaniment.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 3 October 2026. Rules change — always check with the fishery before you go.
Tips & guides worth reading
How we'd fish each lake
Our own suggestions, worked out from each lake's features, its main fish and the venue rules. They're tried-and-tested methods, not reports from this venue, so watch the water and ask in the tackle shop on the day.
Beastie
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
Damson
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Oak
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Yew
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Elm
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Cedar
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Lou’s
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
crucian
Delicate float for crucians
Crucian bites are tiny dips and lifts, so a sensitive float shotted right down is what catches them.
- Fish a small insert waggler or pole float over-depth by an inch.
- Corn, maggot or a 4mm pellet on a size 16–18.
- Strike at any small movement — crucians rarely bury the float.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
rudd
Floating baits and shallow float for rudd
Rudd feed high in the water, often near reeds and lilies on warm days. Fish up in the water to them, not on the bottom.
- A light waggler set 1–2ft deep with a single maggot or caster on a size 18.
- Loose-feed little and often to bring them up.
- Floating bread flake works brilliantly in summer.
Willow
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder. Use a strong rod and line, and rest them properly in the net before release.
- Halibut pellet or small boilie over a bed of pellet.
- Strong hooklink and a size 10–12 hook.
- Never hold barbel out of water long — keep them in the net until they've recovered.
Good background reading. Most of it is a few years old, so treat it as a starting point and ask on the day.
Videos linked by the fishery
What anglers reckon
7.7/10 from Tackle Index: Eleven fishing lakes and a mix including carp, F1s, tench, barbel and silver fish give plenty of angling choice.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
We haven’t found any public angler reviews of this venue yet. Fished it? Add yours below.
Our take on the feedback
Our read
Checked Sept '26 — “Decoy Lakes at Whittlesey is a proper mixed coarse and match venue, with 11 fishing lakes and an advertised 274 pegs. Adult day tickets are £10, but check the conflicting opening hours before loading the car.”
This is our own summary of recurring public feedback and the venue details we checked, not a copied customer review or a promise you’ll catch. Feedback changes, so we keep it separate from the Tackle Index score.
Angler score
What our readers rate Decoy Lakes
No angler score yet — nobody's reviewed Decoy Lakes here. Be the first and get the score started.