Fishery guide · Devon
Stafford Moor Fishery
Stafford Moor has seven lakes covering mixed-bag pleasure fishing, matches and proper specimen carp sessions. Tanners brings the variety, while Beatties and Lodge carry the fishery’s headline carp claims.
“7.9/10 — Mixed coarse fishing and two specimen carp waters give anglers a strong choice of targets.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Stafford Moor gives you a proper choice of fishing, rather than seven lakes all doing much the same thing. There’s pleasure, match and specimen fishing across the complex, with beginner and family options in the mix too. The address for finding it is Toad Hall, Dolton, Devon, EX19 8PP. Pick the sort of day you fancy first, then sort the right lake and ticket.
- 7 lakes: Tanners, Beatties, Lodge, Woodpecker, Pines, Oak, Willow
- Fish: carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch
- Tickets from: Tanners adult day ticket — £14
- Find it: Hatherleigh · EX19 8PP
Plan your session
Fishery map of Stafford Moor Fishery
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Fishery
Stafford Moor Fishery
We haven’t got permission to show venue photos here yet. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Stafford Moor Fishery
Stafford Moor gives you a proper choice of fishing, rather than seven lakes all doing much the same thing. There’s pleasure, match and specimen fishing across the complex, with beginner and family options in the mix too. The address for finding it is Toad Hall, Dolton, Devon, EX19 8PP. Pick the sort of day you fancy first, then sort the right lake and ticket.
For a mixed-bag session, Tanners is the obvious starting point. It’s a five-acre match and pleasure lake with nine islands, so there’s plenty of shape to the water rather than one big featureless bowl. Carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd and perch are all listed. That’s a cracking spread if you enjoy putting a few different species together instead of making the whole day about one big bite.
The specimen side centres on Beatties and Lodge. Beatties has eight acres, ten swims and three islands, with depths of approximately 3–10 feet. Lodge is almost nine acres and reaches 13 feet deep. Those differences give you something useful to think about when choosing your water and sounding out a swim. The fishery reports carp to 41.5lb in Beatties and 44lb in Lodge: proper lumps, but not a promise of an easy PB.
There’s more to the place than those headline waters. Woodpecker has an island and secluded back bays, while Pines is aimed at beginners, with carp reported to 7lb. Oak is the family-oriented pleasure option and has gravel-path access. Willow adds a different layout again, with 20 pegs on an island reached by a bridge. It’s worth matching the lake to your company as well as your fishing ambitions.
A bit of planning saves faff here. Published pleasure-fishing hours are 08:00–16:00, and Tanners has adult and under-16 day tickets. Beatties and Lodge work differently: both offer 24-hour specimen sessions, including overnight fishing, rather than day-only tickets. Specimen fishing must be booked and paid for before entering the lake. Lodge anglers must not arrive before 11:30, and there’s no vehicle re-entry after 16:00.
The practical bits are useful too. The tackle shop sells bait, tackle, clothing, snacks and drinks, with daily opening advertised as 08:00–16:00. Toilets are at Pines, with additional toilets and showers accessible during those same hours. Log cabins and hot-tub lodges are bookable online if you fancy making a break of it. Before tackling up, allow for the required 15-minute dip for specified nets, mats and stink bags, and make sure your hooks are barbless.
Straight from anglers online
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Stafford Moor Fishery FAQs
Where is Stafford Moor?
The address is Toad Hall, Dolton, Devon, EX19 8PP.
What are the pleasure-fishing hours and holiday exceptions?
Published pleasure-fishing hours are 08:00–16:00. No day tickets are available on Christmas Day or Boxing Day.
How does vehicle access work?
The main gate remains closed, so arrange entry through the shop. There’s no vehicle re-entry after 16:00.
Can I book accommodation as well as fishing?
Yes. Log cabins and hot-tub lodges are bookable online. Specimen fishing must be booked and paid for before entering the lake; call the fishery.
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 clothing, snacks and drinks on sale 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 at pines.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off. Bring a barrow in case it's a walk.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
EX19 8PP.
How much is a ticket?
Tanners adult day ticket: £14; Tanners junior day ticket, under-16s: £9; Beatties specimen fishing, including overnight fishing: £35 for each 24-hour session; Lodge specimen fishing, including overnight fishing: £35 for each 24-hour session; Non-fishing overnight guests; booking required: £8 each per 24 hours. Prices last checked 2026-10-06 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Tanners, Woodpecker, Pines, Oak, 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, bream, roach, rudd, perch. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
7 — Tanners (5), Beatties (8), Lodge (Almost 9), Woodpecker (Not published), Pines (Not published), Oak (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 — Only barbless hooks are permitted.
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 additional toilets and showers accessible 08:00–16:00. 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.
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Day ticket · turn up
Tanners: nine islands and a proper mixed-bag choice.
- Size
- 5 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch
Tanners is a five-acre match and pleasure lake with nine islands. That’s plenty of features to consider when picking your peg and deciding where to start.
The species list includes carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd and perch. A good fit if variety matters more to you than spending the whole session chasing a single specimen.
Lake photographs
A look around Tanners
Stafford Moor Fishery
Tanners
We’re checking the fishery’s Tanners pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Mixed-species pleasure anglers
- Match anglers
Maybe not for
- Anglers wanting a 24-hour specimen session
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Tanners
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
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.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
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.
Tanners FAQs
What does a Tanners day ticket cost?
The adult ticket is £14; under-16s pay £9.
Can I use a keepnet for pleasure fishing?
No. Keepnets are permitted only in matches.
What's the lake record on Tanners?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Tanners 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 Tanners?
carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch.
How big is Tanners and how many swims?
Around 5 acres. Nine islands and a proper mixed-bag choice..
Which baits work well on Tanners?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Tanners 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 Tanners 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 Tanners?
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 Stafford Moor Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Tanners?
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 Tanners on a day ticket?
Yes — Tanners is on the day ticket. Tickets: Tanners adult day ticket £14; Tanners junior day ticket, under-16s £9; Beatties specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Lodge specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Non-fishing overnight guests; booking required £8 each per 24 hours (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Tanners?
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 Tanners suit?
Good for: Mixed-species pleasure anglers; Match anglers. Less suited to: Anglers wanting a 24-hour specimen session.
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
Pre-book only
Beatties: eight acres, ten swims and big-carp potential.
- Size
- 8 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Beatties pairs eight acres of water with ten swims and three islands. Depths run from approximately 3–10 feet, giving you a useful range to explore when checking your chosen swim.
This is booked specimen fishing, with 24-hour sessions including the night. The fishery reports carp to 41.5lb, so it’s the big-fish side of Stafford Moor rather than a quick pleasure-ticket stop.
The fishery reports carp to 41.5lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Beatties
Stafford Moor Fishery
Beatties
We’re checking the fishery’s Beatties pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Specimen carp anglers
- Anglers planning an overnight session
Maybe not for
- Day-only anglers
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Beatties
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.
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Beatties FAQs
How do I book Beatties?
Call the fishery. Specimen fishing must be booked and paid for before entering the lake.
How many rods are allowed?
Up to three rods on the specimen lakes.
What's the lake record on Beatties?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery reports carp to 41.5lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Beatties?
carp. The fishery reports carp to 41.5lb.
How big is Beatties and how many swims?
Around 8 acres. Eight acres, ten swims and big-carp potential..
Which baits work well on Beatties?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Beatties 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: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Beatties get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Beatties?
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 Stafford Moor Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Beatties?
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 Beatties on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Beatties in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Beatties?
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 Beatties suit?
Good for: Specimen carp anglers; Anglers planning an overnight session. Less suited to: Day-only 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
Pre-book only
Lodge: the biggest published carp claim of the two specimen waters.
- Size
- Almost 9 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Lodge is almost nine acres, with water reaching 13 feet deep. The fishery reports carp to 44lb here — a proper headline for anglers thinking about their next big-fish session.
Tickets cover 24 hours, including overnight fishing; there’s no day-only option. Get the booking and payment sorted beforehand, and don’t arrive before 11:30 on arrival day.
The fishery reports carp to 44lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Lodge
Stafford Moor Fishery
Lodge
We’re checking the fishery’s Lodge pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Big-carp anglers
- Booked overnight trips
Maybe not for
- Day-only fishing
- Anglers needing an early arrival
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Lodge
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.
Lodge FAQs
Can a non-fishing guest stay overnight?
Yes. Non-fishing overnight guests cost £8 each per 24 hours and must be booked.
What fish-care kit do I need?
Specimen anglers need a thick padded carp mat or cradle and carp-care spray.
What's the lake record on Lodge?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery reports carp to 44lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Lodge?
carp. The fishery reports carp to 44lb.
How big is Lodge and how many swims?
Around Almost 9 acres. The biggest published carp claim of the two specimen waters..
Which baits work well on Lodge?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Lodge 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: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Lodge get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Lodge?
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 Stafford Moor Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Lodge?
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 Lodge on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Lodge in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Lodge?
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 Lodge suit?
Good for: Big-carp anglers; Booked overnight trips. Less suited to: Day-only fishing; Anglers needing an early arrival.
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: an island and tucked-away back bays.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Woodpecker’s named features are an island and secluded back bays. It’s a different-looking option to the more open specimen waters.
If you like choosing between distinct bits of water, those bays are worth bearing in mind. Confirm ticket arrangements when planning your session.
Lake photographs
A look around Woodpecker
Stafford Moor 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 drawn to island features
- Anglers who like secluded bays
Maybe not for
- Anglers needing a published lake-specific stock list
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Woodpecker
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Woodpecker FAQs
What features does Woodpecker have?
An island and secluded back bays.
Is a lake size published?
No acreage is given in the supplied details.
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.
How big is Woodpecker and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. An island and tucked-away back bays..
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 Stafford Moor 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: Tanners adult day ticket £14; Tanners junior day ticket, under-16s £9; Beatties specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Lodge specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Non-fishing overnight guests; booking required £8 each per 24 hours (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Woodpecker?
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 Woodpecker suit?
Good for: Anglers drawn to island features; Anglers who like secluded bays. Less suited to: Anglers needing a published lake-specific stock 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
Pines: the beginner-friendly carp option.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Pines is described as a beginners’ carp lake, with fish reported to 7lb. It’s the clear starting point for someone wanting to get to grips with carp fishing.
That gives it a different brief from Beatties and Lodge: learning the ropes rather than targeting headline lumps. Toilets are located at Pines too.
Carp reported to 7lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Pines
Stafford Moor Fishery
Pines
We’re checking the fishery’s Pines pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Beginner carp anglers
- Anglers building confidence
Maybe not for
- Anglers targeting the venue’s largest carp
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Pines
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.
Pines FAQs
How big are the carp reported to be?
Carp are reported to 7lb.
Are there toilets nearby?
Yes, toilets are located at Pines.
What's the lake record on Pines?
Going by what the fishery says: Carp reported to 7lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Pines?
carp. Carp reported to 7lb.
How big is Pines and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The beginner-friendly carp option..
Which baits work well on Pines?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Pines 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: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Pines 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 Pines?
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 Stafford Moor Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Pines?
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 Pines on a day ticket?
Yes — Pines is on the day ticket. Tickets: Tanners adult day ticket £14; Tanners junior day ticket, under-16s £9; Beatties specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Lodge specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Non-fishing overnight guests; booking required £8 each per 24 hours (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Pines?
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 Pines suit?
Good for: Beginner carp anglers; Anglers building confidence. Less suited to: Anglers targeting the venue’s largest carp.
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: family pleasure fishing with gravel-path access.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Oak is Stafford Moor’s family-oriented pleasure lake. It’s the one to consider when the day is about getting the family fishing rather than organising a specimen campaign.
Gravel-path access is specifically noted. That’s useful practical detail, though it shouldn’t be taken as a blanket promise of step-free or wheelchair access.
Lake photographs
A look around Oak
Stafford Moor Fishery
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
- Family fishing trips
- Pleasure anglers
Maybe not for
- Anglers seeking a dedicated specimen session
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Oak
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On a big lake with gravel bars, a good bed of bait on or behind a bar gives roaming fish a reason to stop and feed for longer.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
Oak FAQs
Who is Oak aimed at?
It’s described as a family-oriented pleasure lake.
What access is described?
Gravel-path access; check any particular mobility requirements before booking.
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. Family pleasure fishing with gravel-path access..
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 Stafford Moor Fishery 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: Tanners adult day ticket £14; Tanners junior day ticket, under-16s £9; Beatties specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Lodge specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Non-fishing overnight guests; booking required £8 each per 24 hours (last checked 2026-10-06).
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: Family fishing trips; Pleasure anglers. Less suited to: Anglers seeking a dedicated specimen session.
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: twenty island pegs, reached by bridge.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Willow has 20 pegs on an island reached by a bridge. That island-based layout is its standout published feature.
It puts a different spin on picking a peg: you’re fishing from the island itself. Check lake availability and ticket arrangements before setting your heart on it.
Lake photographs
A look around Willow
Stafford Moor Fishery
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 interested in island-based pegs
- Anglers who prefer a defined peg layout
Maybe not for
- Anglers needing a published lake-specific stock list
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Willow
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Willow FAQs
How many pegs does Willow have?
There are 20 pegs on the island.
How do anglers reach the island?
Access is via a bridge.
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.
How big is Willow and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Twenty island pegs, reached by bridge..
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 Stafford Moor Fishery 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: Tanners adult day ticket £14; Tanners junior day ticket, under-16s £9; Beatties specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Lodge specimen fishing, including overnight fishing £35 for each 24-hour session; Non-fishing overnight guests; booking required £8 each per 24 hours (last checked 2026-10-06).
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 interested in island-based pegs; Anglers who prefer a defined peg layout. Less suited to: Anglers needing a published lake-specific stock 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
Venue Rule Checker
- Must
Must hooks be barbless?
Only barbless hooks are permitted.
- Yes
Are rod numbers limited?
Maximum three rods on specimen lakes and two on pleasure lakes.
- No
Can pleasure anglers use keepnets?
Keepnets are prohibited for pleasure fishing and permitted only in matches.
- Must
Must equipment be dipped?
Specified nets, mats and stink bags must be dipped for at least 15 minutes before fishing.
- Must
Is extra fish-care kit compulsory on specimen lakes?
Bring a thick padded carp mat or cradle and carp-care spray.
- No
Can under-16s fish the specimen lakes alone?
Under-16s must fish with an adult on the specimen lakes.
- No
Are fake baits, lures and certain nuts allowed?
Fake baits, lures, spinners, treble hooks, peanuts and tiger nuts are prohibited.
- Must
Must anglers stick to marked pegs?
Fish only from marked pegs. Wading is prohibited and rubbish must be taken home.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 6 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.
Tanners
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
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.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
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.
Beatties
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.
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Lodge
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.
Woodpecker
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Pines
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 bigger bed of bait at range
On a big lake with gravel bars, a good bed of bait on or behind a bar gives roaming fish a reason to stop and feed for longer.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
Willow
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
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
7.9/10 from Tackle Index: Mixed coarse fishing and two specimen carp waters give anglers a strong choice of targets.
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 — “Stafford Moor has seven lakes covering mixed-bag pleasure fishing, matches and proper specimen carp sessions. Tanners brings the variety, while Beatties and Lodge carry the fishery’s headline carp claims.”
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 Stafford Moor Fishery
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