Fishery guide · Hampshire
Orchard Lakes
Orchard Lakes is a six-lake coarse fishery at Bashley, near New Milton, with mixed fishing, a 44-peg Match Lake and a beginner-friendly pool. There’s plenty of choice, but check current ticket prices and lake arrangements before loading the barrow.
“6.6/10 — The listed mixed stocks offer plenty of interest, without enough detail to judge specimen potential.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Orchard Lakes sits on New Lane at Bashley, near New Milton, with 56 acres of farmland around it in the New Forest National Park. That’s the whole site, mind, not 56 acres of water. The fishery describes six lakes stocked with 12 species, so this is a mixed coarse venue rather than somewhere to judge purely on carp.
- 6 lakes: Match Lake, Main Lake, Tench Lake, Jimmy’s Lake, Jakes Pool, Aikin’s Pool
- Fish: carp, barbel, tench, chub, roach, rudd, crucian, bream
- Tickets from: Historical 2016 adult all-day ticket — £11
- Find it: New Milton · BH25 5TD
Plan your session
Fishery map of Orchard Lakes
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
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How busy was it?
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No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Mike Faherty. 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 Orchard Lakes
Orchard Lakes sits on New Lane at Bashley, near New Milton, with 56 acres of farmland around it in the New Forest National Park. That’s the whole site, mind, not 56 acres of water. The fishery describes six lakes stocked with 12 species, so this is a mixed coarse venue rather than somewhere to judge purely on carp. We haven’t fished it ourselves, but the published lake details give you a useful starting point for choosing a swim.
Match Lake has the most detail to work with: 44 pegs, roughly 14 metres across and depths between two and six feet. Those dimensions are handy when thinking about pole reach and how much water you’ll be covering. Its listed fish include carp, barbel, tench, ide, chub, roach, rudd, crucians and bream. That’s a cracking mix on paper, though it isn’t a promise that every species will be on the munch when you arrive.
Main Lake has 26 pegs and another broad spread of coarse fish, including carp, tench, perch and bream. Tench Lake has tench, carp and perch listed, so don’t take its name as a guarantee of tench-only fishing. Neither has a published acreage in the supplied details. There are no checked fish weights here either, so we’re not going to talk up mystery lumps or suggest your next PB is waiting in the margins.
The smaller-water picture needs a little more care. Jakes Pool is named by the fishery, while another listing calls it Jakes Pond and describes seven pegs and beginner-friendly fishing. Aikin’s Pool is listed with ten pegs. Jimmy’s Lake is also named, but there isn’t enough detail to tell you its size, species or best approach. If one of those waters catches your eye, a quick chat before travelling should save a bit of faff.
On arrival, tickets must be bought from the onsite shop before fishing. Night fishing is advertised too, but current prices, permitted lakes and arrangements need checking directly. The available tariff is explicitly Spring/Summer 2016, not a verified 2026 price list. Any old prices shown below are historical pointers only. They also don’t explain which lakes each ticket covers or how many rods are included, so don’t build your budget around them.
Tackle-wise, the published club rules specify barbless hooks no bigger than size 8, free-running feeders, leads and feeder floats, and no braided line. Fishery pellets only, with nuts, beans and catmeat prohibited; keepnets are reserved for organised matches. Those are worth sorting before you pack. For current arrangements, speak to Shane with the fishery. Summer closing varies, so get that confirmed as well rather than guessing how long you’ve got left on the bank.
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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Orchard Lakes FAQs
Where is Orchard Lakes?
New Lane, Bashley, near New Milton, Hampshire, BH25 5TD. The 56-acre farmland site is in the New Forest National Park.
Are the ticket prices current?
No. The prices shown are explicitly from Spring/Summer 2016, not a verified 2026 tariff. Ask Shane with the fishery for current prices and ticket coverage.
Can I fish overnight?
Night fishing is advertised, but you need to confirm current prices, lake access and arrangements directly.
When does the fishery close?
October–April opening is 7:30am–5pm. May–September opening is 7:30am, with closing times to be checked with the fishery.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's onsite shop for ticket purchases 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?
We haven't seen any food on site, so bring your own grub and drinks. A flask and a stove (where allowed) make a long day much better.
Are there toilets on site?
Not that we've seen listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
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?
BH25 5TD.
How much is a ticket?
Historical 2016 adult all-day ticket: £11; Historical 2016 junior/OAP all-day ticket: £8; Historical 2016 half-day ticket, covering the last five hours: £5; Historical 2016 24-hour ticket: £22; Historical 2016 night ticket, covering 12 hours: £12.50. Prices last checked 2026-10-02 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Match Lake, Main Lake, Tench Lake, Jimmy’s Lake, Jakes Pool, Aikin’s Pool. 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, barbel, tench, chub, roach, rudd, crucian, bream, perch. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
6 — Match Lake (Not published), Main Lake (Not published), Tench Lake (Not published), Jimmy’s Lake (Not published), Jakes Pool (Not published), Aikin’s Pool (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 — Published club rules specify barbless hooks only, maximum size 8.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
No — Published club rules prohibit keepnets except during organised matches.
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
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Day ticket · turn up
Match Lake: 44 pegs and a proper mixed-species line-up
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, barbel, tench, chub, roach, rudd, crucian, bream
Match Lake is listed with 44 pegs, a width of approximately 14 metres and depths of two to six feet. That gives you a useful picture of the water before choosing what tackle to bring.
Alongside carp and the usual mixed coarse species, barbel and ide are also listed. There’s plenty of variety on paper; check peg availability and current ticket coverage before settling on this lake.
Lake photographs
A look around Match Lake
Orchard Lakes
Match Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Match Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers after mixed-species fishing
- Match-minded anglers who like a defined peg layout
Maybe not for
- Anyone specifically looking for a big, open-water setting
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Match Lake
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.
Venue rule: Leadcore is banned here, so run it on a mono or tubing leader with the top bead set to release — never fixed.
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.
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.
Match Lake FAQs
How many pegs are there?
Match Lake is listed with 44 pegs.
How wide and deep is it?
Approximately 14 metres wide, with listed depths of two to six feet.
What's the lake record on Match Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Match Lake 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 Match Lake?
carp, barbel, tench, chub, roach, rudd, crucian, bream.
How big is Match Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. 44 pegs and a proper mixed-species line-up.
Which baits work well on Match Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Match Lake 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 Match Lake 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 Match Lake?
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 Orchard Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Match Lake?
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 Match Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Match Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Historical 2016 adult all-day ticket £11; Historical 2016 junior/OAP all-day ticket £8; Historical 2016 half-day ticket, covering the last five hours £5; Historical 2016 24-hour ticket £22; Historical 2016 night ticket, covering 12 hours £12.50 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Match Lake?
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 Match Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers after mixed-species fishing; Match-minded anglers who like a defined peg layout. Less suited to: Anyone specifically looking for a big, open-water setting.
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
Main Lake: 26 pegs with plenty of coarse-fishing variety
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, chub, crucian, bream
Main Lake is listed with 26 pegs and a broad mix of coarse fish. Carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, chub, crucians and bream all feature.
It’s one to consider if you like a mixed-species session rather than focusing on a single fish. Size, depths and individual features aren’t published in the supplied details, so ask before making a firm plan.
Lake photographs
A look around Main Lake
Orchard Lakes
Main Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Main Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Mixed coarse anglers
- Anglers interested in both carp and other coarse species
Maybe not for
- Anyone needing confirmed specimen weights before booking
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Main Lake
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.
Main Lake FAQs
How many pegs does Main Lake have?
It is listed with 26 pegs.
Is it only stocked with carp?
No. Tench, perch, roach, rudd, chub, crucians and bream are also listed.
What's the lake record on Main Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Main Lake 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 Main Lake?
carp, tench, perch, roach, rudd, chub, crucian, bream.
How big is Main Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. 26 pegs with plenty of coarse-fishing variety.
Which baits work well on Main Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Main Lake 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 Main Lake 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 Main Lake?
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 Orchard Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Main Lake?
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 Main Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Main Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Historical 2016 adult all-day ticket £11; Historical 2016 junior/OAP all-day ticket £8; Historical 2016 half-day ticket, covering the last five hours £5; Historical 2016 24-hour ticket £22; Historical 2016 night ticket, covering 12 hours £12.50 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Main Lake?
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 Main Lake suit?
Good for: Mixed coarse anglers; Anglers interested in both carp and other coarse species. Less suited to: Anyone needing confirmed specimen weights before booking.
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
Tench Lake: tench on the list, with carp and perch too
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- tench, carp, perch
Tench Lake contains tench, carp and perch. The name points you towards one species, but this isn’t listed as a tench-only water.
There’s no checked acreage, peg count or fish-weight information to add. Have a word with the fishery about access and the lake layout before deciding where to set up.
Lake photographs
A look around Tench Lake
Orchard Lakes
Tench Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Tench Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers interested in tench
- Anglers happy with carp and perch in the mix
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting a tench-only water
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Tench Lake
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.
Tench Lake FAQs
What fish are listed here?
Tench, carp and perch.
How big is Tench Lake?
Its acreage isn’t published in the supplied details.
What's the lake record on Tench Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Tench Lake 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 Tench Lake?
tench, carp, perch.
Which baits work well on Tench Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Tench Lake 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 Tench Lake 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 Tench Lake?
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 Orchard Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Tench Lake?
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 Tench Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Tench Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Historical 2016 adult all-day ticket £11; Historical 2016 junior/OAP all-day ticket £8; Historical 2016 half-day ticket, covering the last five hours £5; Historical 2016 24-hour ticket £22; Historical 2016 night ticket, covering 12 hours £12.50 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Tench Lake?
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 Tench Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers interested in tench; Anglers happy with carp and perch in the mix. Less suited to: Anyone wanting a tench-only 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
Jimmy’s Lake: a named water to ask about before travelling
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Jimmy’s Lake is named on the fishery’s current website. Beyond that, the supplied details don’t describe its stock or layout.
Keep this one on your enquiry list rather than guessing what’s in it. Ask Shane about current lake access, ticket coverage and which sort of session it suits.
Lake photographs
A look around Jimmy’s Lake
Orchard Lakes
Jimmy’s Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Jimmy’s Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Visitors happy to get lake advice directly
- Anglers flexible about their choice of water
Maybe not for
- Anyone needing confirmed species or dimensions in advance
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Jimmy’s Lake
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.
Jimmy’s Lake FAQs
Which species are in Jimmy’s Lake?
No lake-specific species list is supplied, so check directly.
Are its size and peg count published?
Neither is given in the supplied details.
What's the lake record on Jimmy’s Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Jimmy’s Lake 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 Jimmy’s Lake?
carp.
How big is Jimmy’s Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A named water to ask about before travelling.
Which baits work well on Jimmy’s Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Jimmy’s Lake 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 Jimmy’s Lake 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 Jimmy’s Lake?
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 Orchard Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Jimmy’s Lake?
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 Jimmy’s Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Jimmy’s Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Historical 2016 adult all-day ticket £11; Historical 2016 junior/OAP all-day ticket £8; Historical 2016 half-day ticket, covering the last five hours £5; Historical 2016 24-hour ticket £22; Historical 2016 night ticket, covering 12 hours £12.50 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Jimmy’s Lake?
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 Jimmy’s Lake suit?
Good for: Visitors happy to get lake advice directly; Anglers flexible about their choice of water. Less suited to: Anyone needing confirmed species or dimensions in advance.
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
Jakes Pool: the beginner-friendly option, also listed as jakes pond
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
The fishery names Jakes Pool; a separate listing uses Jakes Pond and describes seven pegs with fishing suitable for beginners. Worth knowing about that naming difference when you enquire.
It’s the clearest beginner-focused option in the supplied lake descriptions. There’s no checked species list or acreage, though, so ask what tackle to bring rather than assuming.
Lake photographs
A look around Jakes Pool
Orchard Lakes
Jakes Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Jakes Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Beginners
- Anglers interested in a seven-peg water
Maybe not for
- Anyone choosing a lake around confirmed specimen stock
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Jakes Pool
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.
Jakes Pool FAQs
Is this also called Jakes Pond?
The fishery names Jakes Pool, while another listing uses Jakes Pond.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, the seven-peg Jakes Pond listing specifically describes it as suitable for beginners.
What's the lake record on Jakes Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Jakes Pool 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 Jakes Pool?
carp.
How big is Jakes Pool and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The beginner-friendly option, also listed as Jakes Pond.
Which baits work well on Jakes Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Jakes Pool 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 Jakes Pool 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 Jakes Pool?
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 Orchard Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Jakes Pool?
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 Jakes Pool on a day ticket?
Yes — Jakes Pool is on the day ticket. Tickets: Historical 2016 adult all-day ticket £11; Historical 2016 junior/OAP all-day ticket £8; Historical 2016 half-day ticket, covering the last five hours £5; Historical 2016 24-hour ticket £22; Historical 2016 night ticket, covering 12 hours £12.50 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Jakes Pool?
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 Jakes Pool suit?
Good for: Beginners; Anglers interested in a seven-peg water. Less suited to: Anyone choosing a lake around confirmed specimen stock.
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
Aikin’s Pool: a listed ten-peg pool
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Aikin’s Pool appears in fishing directories and the local angling association’s venue listing. It is listed with ten pegs.
The supplied details don’t give its species, depths or acreage. Check its current availability and ticket arrangements directly before making it the centre of your trip.
Lake photographs
A look around Aikin’s Pool
Orchard Lakes
Aikin’s Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Aikin’s Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers interested in a ten-peg layout
- Visitors happy to confirm lake details directly
Maybe not for
- Anyone needing a confirmed species list before travelling
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Aikin’s Pool
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.
Aikin’s Pool FAQs
How many pegs are listed?
Aikin’s Pool is listed with ten pegs.
What is stocked in it?
A lake-specific stock list isn’t supplied; ask the fishery.
What's the lake record on Aikin’s Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Aikin’s Pool 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 Aikin’s Pool?
carp.
How big is Aikin’s Pool and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A listed ten-peg pool.
Which baits work well on Aikin’s Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Aikin’s Pool 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 Aikin’s Pool 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 Aikin’s Pool?
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 Orchard Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Aikin’s Pool?
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 Aikin’s Pool on a day ticket?
Yes — Aikin’s Pool is on the day ticket. Tickets: Historical 2016 adult all-day ticket £11; Historical 2016 junior/OAP all-day ticket £8; Historical 2016 half-day ticket, covering the last five hours £5; Historical 2016 24-hour ticket £22; Historical 2016 night ticket, covering 12 hours £12.50 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Aikin’s Pool?
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 Aikin’s Pool suit?
Good for: Anglers interested in a ten-peg layout; Visitors happy to confirm lake details directly. Less suited to: Anyone needing a confirmed species list 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
Venue Rule Checker
- Must
Must I buy a ticket before fishing?
Tickets must be purchased from the onsite shop before fishing.
- Must
Are barbless hooks compulsory?
Published club rules specify barbless hooks only, maximum size 8.
- Yes
Can I use two rods?
Published club rules allow up to two rods per person; confirm the allowance included with your current ticket.
- Must
Must feeders and leads be free-running?
Published club rules require feeders, leads and feeder floats to be free-running.
- No
Can I use braided line?
Braided line is prohibited under the published club rules.
- No
Can I use nuts, beans or catmeat?
All three are prohibited under the published club rules.
- Must
Must I use fishery pellets?
Published club rules require fishery pellets only.
- No
Can I use a keepnet outside an organised match?
Published club rules prohibit keepnets except during organised matches.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 2 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.
Match Lake
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.
Venue rule: Leadcore is banned here, so run it on a mono or tubing leader with the top bead set to release — never fixed.
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.
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.
Main Lake
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.
Tench Lake
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.
Jimmy’s Lake
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.
Jakes Pool
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.
Aikin’s Pool
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.
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
6.6/10 from Tackle Index: The listed mixed stocks offer plenty of interest, without enough detail to judge specimen potential.
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 — “Orchard Lakes is a six-lake coarse fishery at Bashley, near New Milton, with mixed fishing, a 44-peg Match Lake and a beginner-friendly pool. There’s plenty of choice, but check current ticket prices and lake arrangements before loading the barrow.”
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 Orchard Lakes
No angler score yet — nobody's reviewed Orchard Lakes here. Be the first and get the score started.