
Fishery guide · County Durham
Aldin Grange Fishery
Aldin Grange is a five-lake complex near Bearpark, County Durham, with three coarse lakes holding carp and a decent mixed bag, plus two fly-only trout waters. Coarse day tickets are £15, with a cracking spread of facilities on site.
“7.7/10 — Three coarse lakes hold carp and a strong spread of mixed coarse species, while two further lakes offer trout fishing.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Aldin Grange Fishery is at Aldin Grange Farm near Bearpark, County Durham. The complex covers approximately 20 acres and has five lakes, with three coarse waters and two fly-only trout lakes. A decent spread, then, whether you fancy a mixed-bag session or a few hours waving the fly rod. Have a quick plan before setting off, as the lakes fish in very different ways and the rules are worth knowing.
- 5 lakes: Swallow, Skylark, Blackbird, Woodpecker, Kingfisher
- Fish: trout, carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub
- Tickets from: Coarse day ticket — £15
- Find it: Newton Aycliffe · DH7 7AR
Plan your session
Fishery map of Aldin Grange Fishery
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Photo: Aldin Grange Fishery (official website). Catch dates not confirmed.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Aldin Grange Fishery
Aldin Grange Fishery is at Aldin Grange Farm near Bearpark, County Durham. The complex covers approximately 20 acres and has five lakes, with three coarse waters and two fly-only trout lakes. A decent spread, then, whether you fancy a mixed-bag session or a few hours waving the fly rod. Have a quick plan before setting off, as the lakes fish in very different ways and the rules are worth knowing.
Blackbird and Woodpecker are the coarse lakes, while Kingfisher is a coarse water with its own car park. The fish listed include carp, F1 carp and ghost carp, along with tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub, orfe, ide and barbel. That gives you plenty to think about. It’s not just a chuck-and-hope carp setup, and a float, feeder or margin approach could all have a place depending on the swim and what’s showing.
Coarse day tickets are listed at £15, with a summer evening ticket listed at £10 from 3pm until dusk. Only one rod is permitted, and only Aldin Grange feed pellets may be used. Boilies, bloodworm, powerbait, joker and floating baits are prohibited, while groundbait is restricted to a feeder or pole cup, with directory information giving a 1kg limit. Pack light, keep the bait tidy and ask about the best starting approach when you arrive.
Swallow and Skylark are the two fly-only trout lakes. They contain rainbow, brown and blue trout, with rainbow trout the only trout that may be killed and taken. Four-hour catch-and-release trout fishing is listed at £15, while full-day catch-and-release is £20. Limited-fish options are also listed, including one-fish four-hour fishing at £17, two-fish four-hour fishing at £20, two-fish full-day fishing at £25, three-fish full-day fishing at £28 and four-fish full-day fishing at £35.
Trout tackle needs a bit of sorting before you leave the house. Barbless or debarbed hooks are required, micro-barbs are prohibited, and a maximum of two flies is allowed. Boobies are prohibited on the trout lakes. Accessible solid-based pegs are reported at Swallow and Skylark, so it’s worth checking the best option when booking or arriving. Match bookings and coaching are available by telephone with the fishery.
The stated opening hours are 7am until dusk, no later than 9pm. Facilities include a café or fishing lodge, toilets, car parking, bait and tackle, food and drinks, with Kingfisher having its own car park. Bring a dip net, as one must be used, and remember fish over 4lb must not be kept in keepnets. Lines must come out when you’re unattended, dogs, littering and wading are prohibited, and children under 12 need an adult with them. A valid Environment Agency rod licence is required.
Straight from anglers online
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Aldin Grange Fishery FAQs
What is the coarse day-ticket price?
The listed coarse day ticket is £15. A summer evening ticket is £10 from 3pm until dusk.
What bait is allowed on the coarse lakes?
Only Aldin Grange feed pellets are allowed. Groundbait is restricted to a feeder or pole cup, with directory information giving a 1kg limit.
Is disabled access available?
Yes. Disabled access is available, with marked solid-based accessible pegs reported at Swallow and Skylark.
How do I contact the fishery?
The published telephone number is the fishery. Match bookings and coaching are available by telephone.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's bait and tackle 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 café or fishing lodge 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.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
Yes — car parking. Walks to the further pegs can be a trek, so a barrow helps.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
DH7 7AR.
How much is a ticket?
Coarse day ticket: £15; Summer evening coarse ticket, 3pm until dusk: £10; Four-hour catch-and-release trout fishing: £15; Full-day catch-and-release trout ticket: £20; One-fish four-hour trout fishing: £17; Two-fish four-hour trout fishing: £20; Two-fish full-day trout fishing: £25; Three-fish full-day trout fishing: £28; Four-fish full-day trout fishing: £35; Coarse season ticket, limited numbers: £300. Prices last checked 2026-10-09 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Swallow, Skylark, Blackbird, Woodpecker, Kingfisher. 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 trout, carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub, barbel. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
5 — Swallow (Approximately 2 acres), Skylark (Not published), Blackbird (Not published), Woodpecker (Not published), Kingfisher (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
It depends — The published closing limit is 9pm; no official confirmation of overnight night fishing was found.
Can I bring my dog?
No — Dogs, littering and wading are prohibited.
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 are permitted; micro-barbs are prohibited.
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?
The fishery lists disabled access with marked solid-based accessible pegs reported at swallow and skylark. Ring ahead to check which swims suit you.
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
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Day ticket · turn up
Swallow: a fly-only trout lake with accessible pegs reported.
- Size
- Approximately 2 acres acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- trout
Swallow is one of Aldin Grange’s two fly-only trout lakes and is approximately 2 acres.
Rainbow, brown and blue trout are listed. Only rainbow trout may be killed and taken.
Lake photographs
A look around Swallow
Aldin Grange Fishery
Swallow
We’re checking the fishery’s Swallow pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Fly anglers after a focused trout session
- Anglers wanting reported accessible, solid-based pegs
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting coarse fishing or bait tactics
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Swallow
trout
Fly fishing for the trout
Stocked lake trout cruise and feed up in the water, so you need to find the depth they're at. Start just under the surface and go deeper if nothing's happening.
- A 9ft 6–7 weight rod with a floating line covers most days; carry an intermediate or sinking line for cold or bright spells.
- Early season and cold days: lures like a Cat's Whisker, Blob or Damsel, pulled back in steady strips.
- Warmer days with fish rising: buzzers, Diawl Bachs or a dry fly fished slowly, or static under an indicator.
- Count your fly down (5, 10, 15 seconds) and change depth till you get a pull — then repeat that count.
- Use 6–8lb fluorocarbon tippet, and check the fishery's rules on catch-and-release, bag limits and barbless hooks before you start.
Venue rule: Bag limits and catch-and-release rules vary a lot on trout waters — ask at the lodge before your first cast.
Swallow FAQs
Can I use bait on Swallow?
No. Trout fishing is fly-only.
Are Boobies allowed?
No. Boobies are prohibited on the trout lakes.
What's the lake record on Swallow?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Swallow 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 Swallow?
trout.
How big is Swallow and how many swims?
Around Approximately 2 acres acres. A fly-only trout lake with accessible pegs reported..
Which baits work well on Swallow?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Swallow 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 Swallow 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 Swallow?
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 Aldin Grange Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Swallow?
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 Swallow on a day ticket?
Yes — Swallow is on the day ticket. Tickets: Coarse day ticket £15; Summer evening coarse ticket, 3pm until dusk £10; Four-hour catch-and-release trout fishing £15; Full-day catch-and-release trout ticket £20; One-fish four-hour trout fishing £17; Two-fish four-hour trout fishing £20; Two-fish full-day trout fishing £25; Three-fish full-day trout fishing £28; Four-fish full-day trout fishing £35; Coarse season ticket, limited numbers £300 (last checked 2026-10-09).
Is night fishing allowed on Swallow?
It depends — The published closing limit is 9pm; no official confirmation of overnight night fishing was found.
Who does Swallow suit?
Good for: Fly anglers after a focused trout session; Anglers wanting reported accessible, solid-based pegs. Less suited to: Anyone wanting coarse fishing or bait tactics.
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
Skylark: the second fly-only trout lake at the complex.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- trout
Skylark is the second trout lake at Aldin Grange and is fly-only.
The trout lakes contain rainbow, brown and blue trout. Marked solid-based accessible pegs are reported at Skylark.
Lake photographs
A look around Skylark
Aldin Grange Fishery
Skylark
We’re checking the fishery’s Skylark pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Fly anglers wanting catch-and-release or limited-fish ticket options
- Anglers looking for reported accessible pegs
Maybe not for
- Coarse anglers and bait anglers
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Skylark
trout
Fly fishing for the trout
Stocked lake trout cruise and feed up in the water, so you need to find the depth they're at. Start just under the surface and go deeper if nothing's happening.
- A 9ft 6–7 weight rod with a floating line covers most days; carry an intermediate or sinking line for cold or bright spells.
- Early season and cold days: lures like a Cat's Whisker, Blob or Damsel, pulled back in steady strips.
- Warmer days with fish rising: buzzers, Diawl Bachs or a dry fly fished slowly, or static under an indicator.
- Count your fly down (5, 10, 15 seconds) and change depth till you get a pull — then repeat that count.
- Use 6–8lb fluorocarbon tippet, and check the fishery's rules on catch-and-release, bag limits and barbless hooks before you start.
Venue rule: Bag limits and catch-and-release rules vary a lot on trout waters — ask at the lodge before your first cast.
Skylark FAQs
How many flies can I use?
A maximum of two flies is allowed.
What hooks are required?
Barbless or debarbed hooks are required, and micro-barbs are prohibited.
What's the lake record on Skylark?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Skylark 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 Skylark?
trout.
How big is Skylark and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The second fly-only trout lake at the complex..
Which baits work well on Skylark?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Skylark 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 Skylark 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 Skylark?
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 Aldin Grange Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Skylark?
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 Skylark on a day ticket?
Yes — Skylark is on the day ticket. Tickets: Coarse day ticket £15; Summer evening coarse ticket, 3pm until dusk £10; Four-hour catch-and-release trout fishing £15; Full-day catch-and-release trout ticket £20; One-fish four-hour trout fishing £17; Two-fish four-hour trout fishing £20; Two-fish full-day trout fishing £25; Three-fish full-day trout fishing £28; Four-fish full-day trout fishing £35; Coarse season ticket, limited numbers £300 (last checked 2026-10-09).
Is night fishing allowed on Skylark?
It depends — The published closing limit is 9pm; no official confirmation of overnight night fishing was found.
Who does Skylark suit?
Good for: Fly anglers wanting catch-and-release or limited-fish ticket options; Anglers looking for reported accessible pegs. Less suited to: Coarse anglers and bait anglers.
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
Blackbird: a coarse lake with carp and a broad mixed bag.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub, barbel
Blackbird is one of the three coarse-fishing lakes at Aldin Grange.
The coarse waters include carp, F1 carp and ghost carp, alongside tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub, orfe, ide and barbel.
Lake photographs
A look around Blackbird
Aldin Grange Fishery
Blackbird
We’re checking the fishery’s Blackbird pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Mixed-coarse anglers after plenty of species
- Anglers happy fishing within tight bait and tackle rules
Maybe not for
- Anglers wanting overnight fishing or unrestricted bait choices
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Blackbird
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.
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.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
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.
Blackbird FAQs
Can I fish two rods on Blackbird?
No. One rod is permitted on the coarse lakes.
What feed can I use?
Only Aldin Grange feed pellets are allowed on the coarse lakes.
What's the lake record on Blackbird?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Blackbird 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 Blackbird?
carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub, barbel.
How big is Blackbird and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A coarse lake with carp and a broad mixed bag..
Which baits work well on Blackbird?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Blackbird 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 Blackbird 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 Blackbird?
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 Aldin Grange Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Blackbird?
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 Blackbird on a day ticket?
Yes — Blackbird is on the day ticket. Tickets: Coarse day ticket £15; Summer evening coarse ticket, 3pm until dusk £10; Four-hour catch-and-release trout fishing £15; Full-day catch-and-release trout ticket £20; One-fish four-hour trout fishing £17; Two-fish four-hour trout fishing £20; Two-fish full-day trout fishing £25; Three-fish full-day trout fishing £28; Four-fish full-day trout fishing £35; Coarse season ticket, limited numbers £300 (last checked 2026-10-09).
Is night fishing allowed on Blackbird?
It depends — The published closing limit is 9pm; no official confirmation of overnight night fishing was found.
Who does Blackbird suit?
Good for: Mixed-coarse anglers after plenty of species; Anglers happy fishing within tight bait and tackle rules. Less suited to: Anglers wanting overnight fishing or unrestricted bait choices.
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
Woodpecker: a coarse water offering carp, f1s and mixed species.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub, barbel
Woodpecker is a coarse-fishing lake on the Aldin Grange complex.
Carp, F1 carp and ghost carp are listed, with tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub and barbel among the other coarse species.
Lake photographs
A look around Woodpecker
Aldin Grange Fishery
Woodpecker
We’re checking the fishery’s Woodpecker pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers chasing a mixed bag with carp in the frame
- Short-session anglers using the £10 summer evening ticket
Maybe not for
- Anyone relying on boilies, bloodworm or floating baits
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Woodpecker
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.
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.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
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.
Woodpecker FAQs
Are boilies allowed?
No. Boilies, bloodworm, powerbait, joker and floating baits are prohibited.
Can fish over 4lb go in a keepnet?
No. Fish over 4lb must not be kept in keepnets.
What's the lake record on Woodpecker?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Woodpecker 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 Woodpecker?
carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub, barbel.
How big is Woodpecker and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A coarse water offering carp, F1s and mixed species..
Which baits work well on Woodpecker?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Woodpecker 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 Woodpecker 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 Woodpecker?
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 Aldin Grange Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Woodpecker?
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 Woodpecker on a day ticket?
Yes — Woodpecker is on the day ticket. Tickets: Coarse day ticket £15; Summer evening coarse ticket, 3pm until dusk £10; Four-hour catch-and-release trout fishing £15; Full-day catch-and-release trout ticket £20; One-fish four-hour trout fishing £17; Two-fish four-hour trout fishing £20; Two-fish full-day trout fishing £25; Three-fish full-day trout fishing £28; Four-fish full-day trout fishing £35; Coarse season ticket, limited numbers £300 (last checked 2026-10-09).
Is night fishing allowed on Woodpecker?
It depends — The published closing limit is 9pm; no official confirmation of overnight night fishing was found.
Who does Woodpecker suit?
Good for: Anglers chasing a mixed bag with carp in the frame; Short-session anglers using the £10 summer evening ticket. Less suited to: Anyone relying on boilies, bloodworm or floating baits.
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
Kingfisher: a coarse lake with its own car park.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub, barbel
Kingfisher is a coarse lake with its own car park, handy for shifting kit to the swim.
The coarse waters list carp, F1 carp and ghost carp, plus tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub and barbel.
Lake photographs
A look around Kingfisher
Aldin Grange Fishery
Kingfisher
We’re checking the fishery’s Kingfisher pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp and mixed-coarse anglers with plenty of kit
- Anglers who value direct car-park access
Maybe not for
- Anglers after trout or fly-only fishing
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Kingfisher
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.
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.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
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.
Kingfisher FAQs
Is there a separate car park?
Yes. Kingfisher has its own car park.
Can I leave my line in while away from the swim?
No. Lines must be removed from the water when the angler is unattended.
What's the lake record on Kingfisher?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Kingfisher 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 Kingfisher?
carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, bream, chub, barbel.
How big is Kingfisher and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A coarse lake with its own car park..
Which baits work well on Kingfisher?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Kingfisher 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 Kingfisher 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 Kingfisher?
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 Aldin Grange Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Kingfisher?
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 Kingfisher on a day ticket?
Yes — Kingfisher is on the day ticket. Tickets: Coarse day ticket £15; Summer evening coarse ticket, 3pm until dusk £10; Four-hour catch-and-release trout fishing £15; Full-day catch-and-release trout ticket £20; One-fish four-hour trout fishing £17; Two-fish four-hour trout fishing £20; Two-fish full-day trout fishing £25; Three-fish full-day trout fishing £28; Four-fish full-day trout fishing £35; Coarse season ticket, limited numbers £300 (last checked 2026-10-09).
Is night fishing allowed on Kingfisher?
It depends — The published closing limit is 9pm; no official confirmation of overnight night fishing was found.
Who does Kingfisher suit?
Good for: Carp and mixed-coarse anglers with plenty of kit; Anglers who value direct car-park access. Less suited to: Anglers after trout or fly-only fishing.
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
- Must
Are barbless hooks required?
Barbless hooks only are permitted; micro-barbs are prohibited.
- No
Can I use more than one rod on the coarse lakes?
One rod is permitted on coarse lakes.
- No
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs, littering and wading are prohibited.
- Only if
Can I fish overnight?
The published closing limit is 9pm; no official confirmation of overnight night fishing was found.
- Must
Do I need an Environment Agency rod licence?
A valid Environment Agency rod licence is required.
- No
Can children under 12 fish alone?
Children under 12 are not allowed unless accompanied by an adult.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 9 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.
Swallow
trout
Fly fishing for the trout
Stocked lake trout cruise and feed up in the water, so you need to find the depth they're at. Start just under the surface and go deeper if nothing's happening.
- A 9ft 6–7 weight rod with a floating line covers most days; carry an intermediate or sinking line for cold or bright spells.
- Early season and cold days: lures like a Cat's Whisker, Blob or Damsel, pulled back in steady strips.
- Warmer days with fish rising: buzzers, Diawl Bachs or a dry fly fished slowly, or static under an indicator.
- Count your fly down (5, 10, 15 seconds) and change depth till you get a pull — then repeat that count.
- Use 6–8lb fluorocarbon tippet, and check the fishery's rules on catch-and-release, bag limits and barbless hooks before you start.
Venue rule: Bag limits and catch-and-release rules vary a lot on trout waters — ask at the lodge before your first cast.
Skylark
trout
Fly fishing for the trout
Stocked lake trout cruise and feed up in the water, so you need to find the depth they're at. Start just under the surface and go deeper if nothing's happening.
- A 9ft 6–7 weight rod with a floating line covers most days; carry an intermediate or sinking line for cold or bright spells.
- Early season and cold days: lures like a Cat's Whisker, Blob or Damsel, pulled back in steady strips.
- Warmer days with fish rising: buzzers, Diawl Bachs or a dry fly fished slowly, or static under an indicator.
- Count your fly down (5, 10, 15 seconds) and change depth till you get a pull — then repeat that count.
- Use 6–8lb fluorocarbon tippet, and check the fishery's rules on catch-and-release, bag limits and barbless hooks before you start.
Venue rule: Bag limits and catch-and-release rules vary a lot on trout waters — ask at the lodge before your first cast.
Blackbird
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.
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.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
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.
Woodpecker
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.
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.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
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.
Kingfisher
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.
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.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
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.
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: Three coarse lakes hold carp and a strong spread of mixed coarse species, while two further lakes offer trout fishing.
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.
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Our take on the feedback
Our read
Checked Sept '26 — “Aldin Grange is a five-lake complex near Bearpark, County Durham, with three coarse lakes holding carp and a decent mixed bag, plus two fly-only trout waters. Coarse day tickets are £15, with a cracking spread of facilities on site.”
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 Aldin Grange Fishery
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