Fishery guide · Hampshire
Ringwood Somerley Lakes
Somerley Lakes is a proper mixed coarse and specimen venue near Ringwood, with carp over 30lb, big pike and plenty of silver fish. It’s currently syndicate-based, so check access with Somerley Estate or Christchurch Angling Club before making the trip.
“6.8/10 — A strong mixed stock list includes carp over 30lb, big pike, bream and plenty of silver fish.”
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The lowdown
Somerley Lakes is a series of former gravel pits near Blashford, just outside Ringwood in Hampshire. You’re close to the New Forest and the Salisbury Road/A338, so the location looks handy for a session. Just get the access and permit side nailed down before chucking the gear in the motor. That bit matters here.
- 4 lakes: Meadow Lake, King Vincent’s Lake, Blashford/Spinnaker water, King’s Lake
- Fish: carp, pike, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd
- Tickets from: Adults — historical day-ticket price — £12
- Find it: Ringwood · BH24 3PF
Plan your session
Fishery map of Ringwood Somerley 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.
Water updates from anglers
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Photo: Ringwood Somerley Lakes (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 Ringwood Somerley Lakes
Somerley Lakes is a series of former gravel pits near Blashford, just outside Ringwood in Hampshire. You’re close to the New Forest and the Salisbury Road/A338, so the location looks handy for a session. Just get the access and permit side nailed down before chucking the gear in the motor. That bit matters here.
The commonly listed waters are Meadow Lake and King Vincent’s Lake. Older descriptions also mention the connected Blashford/Spinnaker water, plus King’s Lake before waters were joined or rearranged. In other words, don’t just rely on an old forum post or a sat-nav pin. Confirm the exact lake, access point and permit arrangements with Christchurch Angling Club or the Somerley Estate before travelling.
There’s a proper mixed-bag feel to the place. Carp are present, with reported fish exceeding 30lb and historical descriptions mentioning 35lb-plus. Pike are reported to about 30lb, while bream can reach around 10lb. Perch, roach, tench and rudd add plenty of options, so you can set up for a specimen session or keep things lighter and enjoy whatever comes along.
King Vincent’s Lake is noted for an abundance of silver fish, making it an obvious shout if you fancy roach, rudd, perch and bream in the mix. Meadow Lake is reported at approximately 8 hectares, while King Vincent’s Lake is approximately 2 acres. On a new water, have a proper look before settling in: check the margins, weed, open water and any visible fish activity, then keep the first approach simple and adaptable.
The current position doesn’t read like a straightforward day-ticket water. The Somerley Estate describes the fishing as syndicate-based and asks prospective anglers to register interest, while Christchurch Angling Club is associated with the fishery. Historical listings mentioned day tickets and club-member night fishing on Spinnaker, but those details shouldn’t be assumed current. Ask about availability, the correct water, parking, night access and any booking process before making the trip.
The traditional coarse-fishing season is listed as 16 June to 14 March, with the fishery generally closed from 15 March to 15 June. Historical rules requested barbless hooks and prohibited nuts and pulses, with anglers directed to follow Christchurch Angling Club rules for individual waters. Swims and car parking were reported as available for disabled anglers, although no dedicated disabled toilet or other specific facilities were confirmed. Pack sensible all-round kit, check the rules, and give the bailiff or club a quick bell first — bob on planning beats a wasted journey.
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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Ringwood Somerley Lakes FAQs
Is Somerley Lakes a day-ticket fishery?
Current fishing is described as syndicate-based. Historical day-ticket prices exist, but they should not be assumed current.
When is Somerley Lakes closed?
The venue is generally closed from 15 March to 15 June, outside the traditional 16 June to 14 March coarse-fishing season.
What is the biggest reported carp?
Carp exceeding 30lb are reported, with older descriptions mentioning fish over 35lb.
Where can I check permits and current rules?
Contact Somerley Estate or Christchurch Angling Club before travelling. Local tackle shops were also historically listed for permits and fishing advice.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's local tackle shops listed for permits and fishing advice 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?
Yes — car parking reported as available for disabled anglers. Walks to the further pegs can be a trek, so a barrow helps.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
BH24 3PF.
How much is a ticket?
Adults — historical day-ticket price: £12; Juniors and concessionary anglers — historical day-ticket price: £7; Spinnaker night fishing for members — historical price: £5 per night. Prices last checked 2026-10-13 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Ringwood Somerley Lakes isn't day-ticket water — Meadow Lake, King Vincent’s Lake, Blashford/Spinnaker water, King’s Lake are members or syndicate only.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find carp, pike, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
4 — Meadow Lake (Approximately 8 hectares), King Vincent’s Lake (Approximately 2 acres), Blashford/Spinnaker water (Not published), King’s Lake (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
No — Night fishing was historically listed as available to club members only.
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 — The club requested that anglers use barbless hooks.
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 swims reported as available for disabled anglers. 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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Syndicate · invite only
Meadow Lake: the larger somerley water, with mixed coarse sport and a chance of a proper carp or predator.
- Size
- Approximately 8 hectares acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, pike, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd
Meadow Lake is reported at approximately 8 hectares, making it the main-sized water in the commonly listed Somerley group. It holds a broad mix of coarse and specimen fish.
Carp, pike, bream, perch, roach, tench and rudd are all reported here, so there’s scope for anything from a silver-fish session to a more patient lump-hunting approach.
Carp are reported at over 30lb, with older descriptions mentioning 35lb-plus; pike are reported to about 30lb and bream to about 10lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Meadow Lake
Ringwood Somerley Lakes
Meadow Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Meadow Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers after mixed coarse and specimen stillwater fishing
- Carp or pike anglers happy to work a larger water
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting a confirmed walk-in day ticket without checking current syndicate access
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Meadow 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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
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.
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.
Meadow Lake FAQs
How big is Meadow Lake?
It is reported as approximately 8 hectares.
What fish are in Meadow Lake?
Reported species include carp, pike, bream, perch, roach, tench and rudd.
What's the lake record on Meadow Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Carp are reported at over 30lb, with older descriptions mentioning 35lb-plus; pike are reported to about 30lb and bream to about 10lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
Which baits work well on Meadow Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Meadow 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: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Meadow Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Meadow 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 Ringwood Somerley Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Meadow 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 Meadow Lake on a day ticket?
No — Meadow Lake is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on Meadow Lake?
No — Night fishing was historically listed as available to club members only.
Who does Meadow Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers after mixed coarse and specimen stillwater fishing; Carp or pike anglers happy to work a larger water. Less suited to: Anyone wanting a confirmed walk-in day ticket without checking current syndicate access.
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
Syndicate · invite only
King Vincent’s Lake: a compact water with plenty of silver-fish appeal.
- Size
- Approximately 2 acres acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd, pike
King Vincent’s Lake is reported at approximately 2 acres and is particularly noted for its abundance of silver fish. That makes it an appealing option for anglers who like keeping the rod tip busy.
Carp, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd and pike are reported in the wider fishery details, giving this smaller water a mixed-bag feel rather than a single-species brief.
The lake is noted for an abundance of silver fish.
Lake photographs
A look around King Vincent’s Lake
Ringwood Somerley Lakes
King Vincent’s Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s King Vincent’s Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Silver-fish anglers after roach, rudd, perch and bream
- Anglers who prefer a smaller water and mixed-bag fishing
Maybe not for
- Those focused solely on the biggest carp in the Somerley group
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish King Vincent’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.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
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.
King Vincent’s Lake FAQs
How big is King Vincent’s Lake?
It is reported as approximately 2 acres.
What is King Vincent’s Lake known for?
It is noted for an abundance of silver fish.
What's the lake record on King Vincent’s Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: The lake is noted for an abundance of silver fish. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in King Vincent’s Lake?
carp, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd, pike. The lake is noted for an abundance of silver fish.
Which baits work well on King Vincent’s Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for King Vincent’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: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does King Vincent’s Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on King Vincent’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 Ringwood Somerley Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on King Vincent’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 King Vincent’s Lake on a day ticket?
No — King Vincent’s Lake is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on King Vincent’s Lake?
No — Night fishing was historically listed as available to club members only.
Who does King Vincent’s Lake suit?
Good for: Silver-fish anglers after roach, rudd, perch and bream; Anglers who prefer a smaller water and mixed-bag fishing. Less suited to: Those focused solely on the biggest carp in the Somerley group.
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
Syndicate · invite only
Blashford/Spinnaker water: the connected or historically listed water with member-only night fishing mentioned.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, pike, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd
Historical listings refer to the connected Blashford/Spinnaker water as part of the Somerley group. The available facts do not publish a size for this water.
Night fishing was historically listed on Spinnaker for club members only, with permits prepaid through local tackle shops. Check the current position before planning an overnighter.
Lake photographs
A look around Blashford/Spinnaker water
Ringwood Somerley Lakes
Blashford/Spinnaker water
We’re checking the fishery’s Blashford/Spinnaker water pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Christchurch Angling Club members checking night-fishing options
- Anglers happy to confirm the exact water and permit arrangements first
Maybe not for
- Casual anglers relying on an unconfirmed historical night-ticket arrangement
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Blashford/Spinnaker water
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.
pike
Static deadbaits for the pike
A smelly deadbait on the bottom near drop-offs or reed lines is the classic, reliable way to find a lake's pike, especially in the colder months.
- Sardine, smelt or mackerel on a wire trace with semi-barbless trebles.
- Strike early — never let a pike run off with the bait.
- Have a long forceps, unhooking mat and big net ready before you cast.
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.
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.
Blashford/Spinnaker water FAQs
Is night fishing available on Spinnaker?
It was historically listed for club members only, but current availability must be confirmed.
How big is the Blashford/Spinnaker water?
The size is not published in the checked facts.
What's the lake record on Blashford/Spinnaker water?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Blashford/Spinnaker water 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 Blashford/Spinnaker water?
carp, pike, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd.
How big is Blashford/Spinnaker water and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The connected or historically listed water with member-only night fishing mentioned..
Which baits work well on Blashford/Spinnaker water?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Blashford/Spinnaker water 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 Blashford/Spinnaker water get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Blashford/Spinnaker water?
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 Ringwood Somerley Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Blashford/Spinnaker water?
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 Blashford/Spinnaker water on a day ticket?
No — Blashford/Spinnaker water is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Who does Blashford/Spinnaker water suit?
Good for: Christchurch Angling Club members checking night-fishing options; Anglers happy to confirm the exact water and permit arrangements first. Less suited to: Casual anglers relying on an unconfirmed historical night-ticket arrangement.
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
Syndicate · invite only
King’s Lake: an olderly listed water name from before the lakes were joined or rearranged.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, pike, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd
Older descriptions mention King’s Lake as a separate water before the Somerley waters were joined or rearranged. It’s therefore important not to assume the old layout matches the current one.
No current size or separate access details are published for King’s Lake, so anglers should ask the estate or club which present-day water this name relates to.
Lake photographs
A look around King’s Lake
Ringwood Somerley Lakes
King’s Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s King’s Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers researching the historical Somerley water layout
- Syndicate anglers confirming their exact permitted water
Maybe not for
- Anyone expecting a clearly separate, currently advertised lake
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish King’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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
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.
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.
King’s Lake FAQs
Is King’s Lake still a separate water?
Older descriptions treated it as separate, but the waters were later joined or rearranged.
Can I get a current size for King’s Lake?
No current size is published in the checked facts.
What's the lake record on King’s Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for King’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 King’s Lake?
carp, pike, bream, perch, roach, tench, rudd.
How big is King’s Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. An olderly listed water name from before the lakes were joined or rearranged..
Which baits work well on King’s Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for King’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 King’s Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on King’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 Ringwood Somerley Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on King’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 King’s Lake on a day ticket?
No — King’s Lake is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on King’s Lake?
No — Night fishing was historically listed as available to club members only.
Who does King’s Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers researching the historical Somerley water layout; Syndicate anglers confirming their exact permitted water. Less suited to: Anyone expecting a clearly separate, currently advertised lake.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- Yes
Is the fishery syndicate-based?
The currently accessible Somerley Estate website describes the fishing as syndicate-based and asks prospective anglers to register interest.
- Seasonal
Is fishing seasonal?
The traditional coarse-fishing season is 16 June to 14 March; the venue is generally closed from 15 March to 15 June.
- Must
Do anglers need to follow Christchurch Angling Club rules?
Anglers were directed to follow Christchurch Angling Club rules for individual waters.
- Must
Should barbless hooks be used?
The club requested that anglers use barbless hooks.
- No
Are nuts and pulses allowed?
Nuts and pulses were prohibited in the historical venue listing.
- No
Is night fishing open to everyone?
Night fishing was historically listed as available to club members only.
- Must
Should permits be confirmed before travelling?
Booking or permit availability should be confirmed directly with Somerley Estate or Christchurch Angling Club.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 13 October 2026. Rules change — always check with the fishery before you go.
Rules and prices change through the season. Follow and we'll flag changes the fishery or other anglers report.
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.
Meadow 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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
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.
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.
King Vincent’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.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
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.
Blashford/Spinnaker water
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.
pike
Static deadbaits for the pike
A smelly deadbait on the bottom near drop-offs or reed lines is the classic, reliable way to find a lake's pike, especially in the colder months.
- Sardine, smelt or mackerel on a wire trace with semi-barbless trebles.
- Strike early — never let a pike run off with the bait.
- Have a long forceps, unhooking mat and big net ready before you cast.
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.
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.
King’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.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
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.
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.
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
6.8/10 from Tackle Index: A strong mixed stock list includes carp over 30lb, big pike, bream and plenty of silver fish.
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 — “Somerley Lakes is a proper mixed coarse and specimen venue near Ringwood, with carp over 30lb, big pike and plenty of silver fish. It’s currently syndicate-based, so check access with Somerley Estate or Christchurch Angling Club before making the trip.”
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.
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