Fishery guide · Hertfordshire
Rib Valley Fishing Lakes
Rib Valley at Westmill Farm gives you a proper choice: mixed coarse lakes, seasonal fly fishing, a beginner-friendly pond and a stretch of the River Rib. Pick your water carefully — this isn't just one carp lake with a different name on each bank.
“7.4/10 — Mixed coarse fishing, seasonal pike and rainbow trout offer plenty of choice, without making promises about catches.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Rib Valley Fishing Lakes sits at Westmill Farm near Ware, Hertfordshire, with SG12 0ES for the satnav. The fishery advertises approximately 20 acres of coarse and fly fishing, centred on Rib, Westmill and Millennium lakes. There's also little Kingfisher Pond and a kilometre of the River Rib. That's a cracking spread if your fishing mood changes between carp, mixed coarse species and a session with the fly rod.
- 5 lakes: Rib Lake, Westmill Lake, Millennium Lake, Kingfisher Pond, River Rib
- Fish: carp, roach, tench, perch, pike, bream, barbel
- Tickets from: Adult coarse day ticket — one rod — £12.50
- Find it: Ware · SG12 0ES
Plan your session
Fishery map of Rib Valley Fishing Lakes
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Nigel Cox. 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 Rib Valley Fishing Lakes
Rib Valley Fishing Lakes sits at Westmill Farm near Ware, Hertfordshire, with SG12 0ES for the satnav. The fishery advertises approximately 20 acres of coarse and fly fishing, centred on Rib, Westmill and Millennium lakes. There's also little Kingfisher Pond and a kilometre of the River Rib. That's a cracking spread if your fishing mood changes between carp, mixed coarse species and a session with the fly rod.
Rib Lake is the big-water option, at approximately 12 acres; the lake overview gives the more precise figure of 11.51 acres and a listed depth of 18ft. Carp, roach, tench, perch and pike give it plenty of mixed-fishing appeal. The important seasonal detail is pike fishing, which runs October–March. Don't read the species list as a promise of easy bites or monster lumps, though: no fish weights or catch expectations are supplied for this water.
Westmill offers a smaller coarse-water choice at 2.75 acres, with a listed depth of 13ft. Its advertised mix includes crucian, common and mirror carp, silver fish, tench, bream and perch. If choosing between carp and other coarse species is half your pre-trip faff, this is worth a look. Kingfisher Pond is the explicitly beginner-friendly option, measuring 0.36 acres with a listed depth of 5ft. Small water, rather than the biggest lake, might fit your plans better.
Millennium is a different proposition altogether: approximately five acres of fly water, up to 14ft deep, accommodating 30 rods. The fishery describes rainbow trout mainly around 2lb, with larger fish subject to availability. Here's the catch before you pack the fly box: fishing pauses during warmer months, and autumn reopening depends on conditions. Check before booking rather than banking on a fixed restart date. Spinning isn't allowed on Millennium, so leave that particular plan at home.
Getting a ticket is straightforward on paper. They're sold through the entrance tackle shop during opening hours, or online around the clock. Online tickets arrive by email and are checked bankside; reservations require full payment. Buying ahead doesn't secure your favourite swim, mind. Individual pegs and swims cannot be reserved, with allocation first come, first served. Exclusive lake bookings are offered for corporate events, parties and matches, with match bookings running October–March.
For a longer stint, night tickets cover 24 hours, up to three rods and one fishing bivvy. Night anglers must arrive before 5pm, and staying beyond those 24 hours means another ticket. There are junior and senior concessions, plus paid guest options if someone's tagging along without fishing. The main appeal is the choice; the main bit of homework is checking the right water and seasonal arrangements before setting off.
Straight from anglers online
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Rib Valley Fishing Lakes FAQs
Where is Rib Valley Fishing Lakes?
At Westmill Farm near Ware, Hertfordshire. The postcode is SG12 0ES.
Where do I buy tickets?
In the entrance tackle shop during opening hours, or online 24/7. Online tickets are emailed and checked bankside; they don't reserve a swim.
Who qualifies for concession tickets?
Juniors aged 16 or younger and seniors aged 65 or older.
Can I bring a non-fishing guest?
Yes. Non-fishing guests cost £3.50 per day guest or £5 per night guest.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's entrance tackle 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?
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?
SG12 0ES.
How much is a ticket?
Adult coarse day ticket — one rod: £12.50; Adult coarse day ticket — two rods: £16; Adult coarse day ticket — three rods: £18; Concession coarse day ticket — one rod: £10.50; Concession coarse day ticket — two rods: £14; Concession coarse day ticket — three rods: £16; Night ticket: £32.50; Concession night ticket: £26; Fly ticket — one fish killed plus catch-and-release: £28; Additional killed trout — each: £12; Non-fishing day guest: £3.50; Non-fishing night guest: £5. 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 Rib Lake, Westmill Lake, Millennium Lake, Kingfisher Pond, River Rib. 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, roach, tench, perch, pike, bream, barbel. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
5 — Rib Lake (11.51), Westmill Lake (2.75), Millennium Lake (Approximately five), Kingfisher Pond (0.36), River Rib (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
Yes, it's required — Night anglers must arrive before 5pm.
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?
Most UK fisheries prefer barbless or micro-barbed hooks — ask on arrival if unsure.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
It's seasonal — Match bookings run October–March.
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
Rib Lake: the biggest lake, with mixed coarse fish and seasonal pike fishing.
- Size
- 11.51 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, roach, tench, perch, pike
Rib is the sizeable option here: approximately 12 acres, with 11.51 acres and 18ft depth listed in the overview. Worth keeping that scale in mind when choosing between the waters.
Carp share the lake with roach, tench, perch and pike. Fancy a predator session? Pike fishing runs October–March, so that part of the calendar matters.
Contains carp, roach, tench, perch and pike.
Lake photographs
A look around Rib Lake
Rib Valley Fishing Lakes
Rib Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Rib Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers wanting a larger coarse lake
- Pike anglers visiting October–March
Maybe not for
- Anyone after a small beginner pond
- Anglers planning summer pike fishing
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Rib 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.
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.
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
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.
Rib Lake FAQs
How big is Rib Lake?
Approximately 12 acres; the overview lists 11.51 acres and 18ft depth.
When can I fish for pike?
Rib Lake pike fishing runs October–March.
What's the lake record on Rib Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Contains carp, roach, tench, perch and pike. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Rib Lake?
carp, roach, tench, perch, pike. Contains carp, roach, tench, perch and pike.
Which baits work well on Rib Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Rib 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 Rib 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 Rib 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 Rib Valley Fishing Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Rib 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 Rib Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Rib Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult coarse day ticket — one rod £12.50; Adult coarse day ticket — two rods £16; Adult coarse day ticket — three rods £18; Concession coarse day ticket — one rod £10.50; Concession coarse day ticket — two rods £14; Concession coarse day ticket — three rods £16; Night ticket £32.50; Concession night ticket £26; Fly ticket — one fish killed plus catch-and-release £28; Additional killed trout — each £12; Non-fishing day guest £3.50; Non-fishing night guest £5 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Rib Lake?
Yes, it's required — Night anglers must arrive before 5pm.
Who does Rib Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers wanting a larger coarse lake; Pike anglers visiting October–March. Less suited to: Anyone after a small beginner pond; Anglers planning summer pike fishing.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Westmill Lake: a smaller coarse lake with a proper mixed species list.
- Size
- 2.75 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, perch
Westmill measures 2.75 acres, with a listed depth of 13ft. It's the smaller of the two main coarse lakes, giving you an alternative to Rib's bigger expanse.
The advertised mix takes in crucian, common and mirror carp alongside silver fish, tench, bream and perch. Plenty of variety on the species list, without any supplied size claims to dress it up.
Stocks crucian, common and mirror carp, silver fish, tench, bream and perch.
Lake photographs
A look around Westmill Lake
Rib Valley Fishing Lakes
Westmill Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Westmill Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Mixed coarse anglers
- Carp anglers preferring a smaller water
Maybe not for
- Fly anglers after rainbow trout
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Westmill Lake
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
tench
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
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.
Westmill Lake FAQs
Which carp are listed for Westmill?
Crucian, common and mirror carp are all listed.
How large and deep is it?
Westmill is listed at 2.75 acres and 13ft deep.
What's the lake record on Westmill Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Stocks crucian, common and mirror carp, silver fish, tench, bream and perch. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Westmill Lake?
carp, tench, bream, perch. Stocks crucian, common and mirror carp, silver fish, tench, bream and perch.
How big is Westmill Lake and how many swims?
Around 2.75 acres. A smaller coarse lake with a proper mixed species list..
Which baits work well on Westmill Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Westmill 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 Westmill 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 Westmill 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 Rib Valley Fishing Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Westmill 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 Westmill Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Westmill Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult coarse day ticket — one rod £12.50; Adult coarse day ticket — two rods £16; Adult coarse day ticket — three rods £18; Concession coarse day ticket — one rod £10.50; Concession coarse day ticket — two rods £14; Concession coarse day ticket — three rods £16; Night ticket £32.50; Concession night ticket £26; Fly ticket — one fish killed plus catch-and-release £28; Additional killed trout — each £12; Non-fishing day guest £3.50; Non-fishing night guest £5 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Westmill Lake?
Yes, it's required — Night anglers must arrive before 5pm.
Who does Westmill Lake suit?
Good for: Mixed coarse anglers; Carp anglers preferring a smaller water. Less suited to: Fly anglers after rainbow trout.
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
Millennium Lake: seasonal rainbow trout fishing on the fly.
- Size
- Approximately five acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Millennium is approximately five acres, reaches up to 14ft deep and accommodates 30 rods. This is the fly-fishing option, with rainbow trout mainly around 2lb according to the fishery.
Don't assume it's available all summer. Fly fishing pauses during warmer months, and the autumn restart depends on conditions. Check before booking; spinning is prohibited.
Rainbow trout, mainly around 2lb, with larger fish subject to availability.
Lake photographs
A look around Millennium Lake
Rib Valley Fishing Lakes
Millennium Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Millennium Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Rainbow trout fly anglers
- Anglers happy to check seasonal availability
Maybe not for
- Spinning enthusiasts
- Anyone needing guaranteed summer fly fishing
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Millennium Lake
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
trout
Fly fishing for the trout
Stocked lake trout cruise and feed up in the water, so you need to find the depth they're at. This lake has some depth, so start deep with a sinking line and work up.
- A 9ft 6–7 weight rod with a floating line covers most days; carry an intermediate or sinking line for cold or bright spells.
- Early season and cold days: lures like a Cat's Whisker, Blob or Damsel, pulled back in steady strips.
- Warmer days with fish rising: buzzers, Diawl Bachs or a dry fly fished slowly, or static under an indicator.
- Count your fly down (5, 10, 15 seconds) and change depth till you get a pull — then repeat that count.
- Use 6–8lb fluorocarbon tippet, and check the fishery's rules on catch-and-release, bag limits and barbless hooks before you start.
Venue rule: Bag limits and catch-and-release rules vary a lot on trout waters — ask at the lodge before your first cast.
Millennium Lake FAQs
Does Millennium stay open for fly fishing all year?
No. Fishing pauses during warmer months, and autumn reopening depends on conditions.
What does the fly ticket include?
One fish killed plus catch-and-release; additional killed fish are charged separately.
What's the lake record on Millennium Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Rainbow trout, mainly around 2lb, with larger fish subject to availability. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Millennium Lake?
carp. Rainbow trout, mainly around 2lb, with larger fish subject to availability.
How big is Millennium Lake and how many swims?
Around Approximately five acres. Seasonal rainbow trout fishing on the fly..
Which baits work well on Millennium Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Millennium 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 Millennium 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 Millennium 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 Rib Valley Fishing Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Millennium 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 Millennium Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Millennium Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult coarse day ticket — one rod £12.50; Adult coarse day ticket — two rods £16; Adult coarse day ticket — three rods £18; Concession coarse day ticket — one rod £10.50; Concession coarse day ticket — two rods £14; Concession coarse day ticket — three rods £16; Night ticket £32.50; Concession night ticket £26; Fly ticket — one fish killed plus catch-and-release £28; Additional killed trout — each £12; Non-fishing day guest £3.50; Non-fishing night guest £5 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Millennium Lake?
Yes, it's required — Night anglers must arrive before 5pm.
Who does Millennium Lake suit?
Good for: Rainbow trout fly anglers; Anglers happy to check seasonal availability. Less suited to: Spinning enthusiasts; Anyone needing guaranteed summer fly fishing.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Kingfisher Pond: the little pond highlighted for beginners.
- Size
- 0.36 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Kingfisher is the compact option, listed at 0.36 acres and 5ft deep. The fishery describes it as beginner-friendly.
That's the useful distinction here, rather than a headline fish size. A species breakdown isn't supplied, so check what's stocked before planning around a particular target.
Lake photographs
A look around Kingfisher Pond
Rib Valley Fishing Lakes
Kingfisher Pond
We’re checking the fishery’s Kingfisher Pond pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Beginners
- Anglers looking for a small pond
Maybe not for
- Anglers wanting a large-water session
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Kingfisher Pond
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
Kingfisher Pond FAQs
Is Kingfisher suitable for beginners?
Yes, the fishery specifically describes it as beginner-friendly.
Which species does it contain?
A species list isn't supplied; check with the fishery before targeting a particular fish.
What's the lake record on Kingfisher Pond?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Kingfisher Pond that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Kingfisher Pond?
carp.
How big is Kingfisher Pond and how many swims?
Around 0.36 acres. The little pond highlighted for beginners..
Which baits work well on Kingfisher Pond?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Kingfisher Pond further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Kingfisher Pond get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Kingfisher Pond?
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 Rib Valley Fishing Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Kingfisher Pond?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Kingfisher Pond on a day ticket?
Yes — Kingfisher Pond is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult coarse day ticket — one rod £12.50; Adult coarse day ticket — two rods £16; Adult coarse day ticket — three rods £18; Concession coarse day ticket — one rod £10.50; Concession coarse day ticket — two rods £14; Concession coarse day ticket — three rods £16; Night ticket £32.50; Concession night ticket £26; Fly ticket — one fish killed plus catch-and-release £28; Additional killed trout — each £12; Non-fishing day guest £3.50; Non-fishing night guest £5 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Kingfisher Pond?
Yes, it's required — Night anglers must arrive before 5pm.
Who does Kingfisher Pond suit?
Good for: Beginners; Anglers looking for a small pond. Less suited to: Anglers wanting a large-water 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
River Rib: a kilometre of river as an alternative to the lakes.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- barbel, roach, perch, bream, pike
Not a lake, but worth including in the choice: the fishery lists a 1km stretch of the River Rib. It's the flowing-water alternative at the venue.
The listed fish include barbel, chub, roach, perch, bream, pike and trout. River-specific ticket coverage and access arrangements aren't detailed here, so check those before committing to a session.
A 1km stretch with barbel, chub, roach, perch, bream, pike and trout.
Lake photographs
A look around River Rib
Rib Valley Fishing Lakes
River Rib
We’re checking the fishery’s River Rib pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- River anglers
- Anglers interested in barbel and chub
Maybe not for
- Anyone specifically wanting stillwater fishing
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish River Rib
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder, and this lake runs alongside the river. 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.
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.
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.
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.
River Rib FAQs
How much river is listed?
The fishery lists a 1km stretch of the River Rib.
Are river ticket arrangements confirmed?
River-specific ticket coverage isn't supplied; confirm it with the fishery before visiting.
What's the lake record on River Rib?
Going by what the fishery says: A 1km stretch with barbel, chub, roach, perch, bream, pike and trout. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in River Rib?
barbel, roach, perch, bream, pike. A 1km stretch with barbel, chub, roach, perch, bream, pike and trout.
How big is River Rib and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A kilometre of river as an alternative to the lakes..
Which baits work well on River Rib?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for River Rib 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 River Rib 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 River Rib?
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 Rib Valley Fishing Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on River Rib?
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 River Rib on a day ticket?
Yes — River Rib is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult coarse day ticket — one rod £12.50; Adult coarse day ticket — two rods £16; Adult coarse day ticket — three rods £18; Concession coarse day ticket — one rod £10.50; Concession coarse day ticket — two rods £14; Concession coarse day ticket — three rods £16; Night ticket £32.50; Concession night ticket £26; Fly ticket — one fish killed plus catch-and-release £28; Additional killed trout — each £12; Non-fishing day guest £3.50; Non-fishing night guest £5 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on River Rib?
Yes, it's required — Night anglers must arrive before 5pm.
Who does River Rib suit?
Good for: River anglers; Anglers interested in barbel and chub. Less suited to: Anyone specifically wanting stillwater fishing.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
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How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- No
Can I reserve an individual swim or peg?
Swims and individual pegs are first come, first served and cannot be reserved.
- Must
Must reservations be paid in full?
Reservations require full payment. Online tickets are emailed and checked bankside.
- Must
Must night anglers arrive before 5pm?
Night anglers must arrive before 5pm.
- Yes
Is night-ticket coverage limited?
A night ticket covers 24 hours, up to three rods and one fishing bivvy. Extending beyond 24 hours requires another ticket.
- Seasonal
Is Rib Lake pike fishing seasonal?
Pike fishing runs October–March.
- No
Can I spin on Millennium Lake?
Spinning is prohibited on Millennium Lake.
- Seasonal
Does Millennium fly fishing pause seasonally?
Fishing pauses during warmer months. Autumn reopening depends on conditions, so check before booking.
- Seasonal
Are match bookings seasonal?
Match bookings run October–March.
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.
Rib 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.
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.
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
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.
Westmill Lake
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
tench
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
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.
Millennium Lake
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
trout
Fly fishing for the trout
Stocked lake trout cruise and feed up in the water, so you need to find the depth they're at. This lake has some depth, so start deep with a sinking line and work up.
- A 9ft 6–7 weight rod with a floating line covers most days; carry an intermediate or sinking line for cold or bright spells.
- Early season and cold days: lures like a Cat's Whisker, Blob or Damsel, pulled back in steady strips.
- Warmer days with fish rising: buzzers, Diawl Bachs or a dry fly fished slowly, or static under an indicator.
- Count your fly down (5, 10, 15 seconds) and change depth till you get a pull — then repeat that count.
- Use 6–8lb fluorocarbon tippet, and check the fishery's rules on catch-and-release, bag limits and barbless hooks before you start.
Venue rule: Bag limits and catch-and-release rules vary a lot on trout waters — ask at the lodge before your first cast.
Kingfisher Pond
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
River Rib
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder, and this lake runs alongside the river. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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
7.4/10 from Tackle Index: Mixed coarse fishing, seasonal pike and rainbow trout offer plenty of choice, without making promises about catches.
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 — “Rib Valley at Westmill Farm gives you a proper choice: mixed coarse lakes, seasonal fly fishing, a beginner-friendly pond and a stretch of the River Rib. Pick your water carefully — this isn't just one carp lake with a different name on each bank.”
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 Rib Valley Fishing Lakes
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