Fishery guide · Lincolnshire
Woodland Waters
Woodland Waters has five lakes covering specimen carp, mixed coarse fishing and match days on a 72-acre holiday park near Grantham. There’s a proper spread of fishing, plus overnight sessions on Specimen Lake by arrangement.
“7.8/10 — Five lakes offer mixed coarse fishing and specimen options, with notable advertised carp, pike and tench sizes.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Woodland Waters gives you a fair bit of choice before you’ve even picked a peg. Set on Willoughby Road in Ancaster, near Grantham, this 72-acre holiday park has five fishing lakes, with specimen carp, mixed coarse fishing and match options all in the mix. That’s the park’s acreage, mind, not the combined size of the water.
- 5 lakes: Specimen Lake, Match Lake, Small Carp Lake, Birch Lake, Roach Pool
- Fish: carp, bream, rudd, perch, pike, tench, roach, crucian
- Tickets from: Adult general day ticket — £7 one rod; £9 two.
- Find it: Ancaster · NG32 3RT
Plan your session
Fishery map of Woodland Waters
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Photo: Woodland Waters (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 Woodland Waters
Woodland Waters gives you a fair bit of choice before you’ve even picked a peg. Set on Willoughby Road in Ancaster, near Grantham, this 72-acre holiday park has five fishing lakes, with specimen carp, mixed coarse fishing and match options all in the mix. That’s the park’s acreage, mind, not the combined size of the water. It’s a handy distinction when you’re weighing up where to spend a day or planning a fishing break.
Specimen Lake is the big one at 14 acres. Carp are the main attraction, alongside bream, rudd, perch and pike, and the fishery advertises carp and pike to 27½ lb. Those are advertised sizes, not a promise of a lump on your next cast. It’s also the only lake where night fishing is allowed. Fancy settling into a bivvy? Overnight fishing needs arranging with the fishery, rather than just turning up ready for a long session.
Match Lake brings a different feel: seven acres, an island and wooded banks, with tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch and carp. The island is a named feature to think about when choosing your swim, though there’s no need to pretend we know its depths or best casting spots. Tench are advertised to 11½ lb, which gives the mixed fishing a bit of extra interest. Club organisers can arrange matches by phone rather than guessing at availability.
The smaller waters keep the choice going. Small Carp Lake packs two islands into a quarter-acre, with carp advertised to 10 lb. Birch Lake offers carp, tench, bream, roach and rudd, while Roach Pool has small carp, tench, crucians and roach and is popular with juniors. So it isn’t all about sitting behind carp rods. There’s room in the line-up for a mixed-species outing or a youngster’s day, with adult accompaniment required for under-16s.
There are separate general and carp day-ticket rates, concession rates, evening general tickets and a 24-hour carp option. Seniors, disabled anglers and under-16s qualify for concessions. Check which ticket covers your intended lake before getting settled, and ask about the rod allowance on a 24-hour ticket because that isn’t specified. The park operates year-round, but exact daytime fishing hours aren’t supplied. Pike fishing is restricted to October–March for anglers without a season ticket, so don’t overlook that seasonal detail.
Away from the bank, you’ve got a restaurant, touring pitches, lodges, laundry, disabled facilities and children’s play areas. Lakeview lodge stays include fishing and overlook Match Lake, making those worth a look if you want a break built around the water. Accommodation has an official online booking service, with advance booking particularly important for peak dates. Before loading the car, get the basics bob on: disinfect nets, pack an unhooking mat, use barbless hooks and check the small-lake bait and keepnet restrictions.
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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Woodland Waters FAQs
Where is Woodland Waters?
It’s on Willoughby Road, Ancaster, near Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG32 3RT. The mapped fishing-area coordinates don’t specifically identify the entrance.
What are the daytime fishing hours?
The park operates year-round, but exact daytime fishing opening hours aren’t supplied. Check with the fishery before travelling.
Who qualifies for concession tickets?
Seniors, disabled anglers and under-16s qualify. Under-16s also need adult accompaniment.
Can I book a stay with fishing included?
Lakeview lodge stays include fishing and overlook Match Lake. Accommodation can be booked through the official online booking service; book ahead, especially for peak dates.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
We haven't found a tackle shop on site at Woodland Waters. Sort your bait and end tackle before you travel, as there's no guarantee of anything close by near Ancaster.
Do I need to bring food?
There's on-site restaurant listed, but opening times vary, so pack snacks and plenty of water just in case — especially on a long session.
Are there toilets on site?
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?
NG32 3RT.
How much is a ticket?
Adult general day ticket: £7 one rod; £9 two.; Concession general day ticket: £5.50 one rod; £7.50 two.; Adult carp day ticket: £9 one rod; £11 two.; Concession carp day ticket: £7 one rod; £9 two.; 24-hour carp ticket: adults £25; concessions £20; rod allowance unspecified.; Evening general ticket, 5pm–dusk: adults £5/£7 for one/two rods.; Evening general concessions: £4/£6 for one/two rods.. Prices last checked 2026-10-03 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Specimen Lake, Match Lake, Small Carp Lake, Birch Lake, Roach 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, bream, rudd, perch, pike, tench, roach, crucian. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
5 — Specimen Lake (14), Match Lake (7), Small Carp Lake (0.25), Birch Lake (Not published), Roach Pool (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
It depends — Night fishing is on Specimen Lake only and must be arranged with the fishery. Fishing bivvies are permitted; lakeside tents are prohibited. Night anglers need torches and mobile-phone access.
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 — Disinfect nets and use barbless hooks.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Yes, it's required — Return fish and use unhooking mats.
Is it suitable for disabled anglers?
The fishery lists disabled facilities. Ring ahead to check which swims suit you.
Do I need a rod licence?
Yes — anyone 13 or over fishing in England and Wales needs an Environment Agency rod licence (or Natural Resources Wales in Wales), on top of your fishery ticket.
When's the best time of year to fish here?
Late spring through autumn is prime for most species. Check our live weather edge for this venue before you go — it updates daily.
Anglers' photos
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Day ticket · turn up
Specimen Lake: the big-water option for carp and arranged overnighters
- Size
- 14 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, rudd, perch, pike
At 14 acres, Specimen Lake is the largest named water here. It’s predominantly carp fishing, with bream, rudd, perch and pike also present. The advertised carp and pike sizes give specimen anglers something to chew over.
This is the only lake allowing night fishing, and you need to arrange that with the fishery. Fishing bivvies are permitted, but lakeside tents aren’t. Pack a torch and make sure you have mobile-phone access.
The fishery advertises carp and pike to 27½ lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Specimen Lake
Woodland Waters
Specimen Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Specimen Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp anglers after the venue’s specimen option
- Anglers wanting an overnight session by arrangement
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting a compact little pool
- Anglers planning an unarranged overnight visit
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Specimen Lake
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
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.
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.
rudd
Floating baits and shallow float for rudd
Rudd feed high in the water, often near reeds and lilies on warm days. Fish up in the water to them, not on the bottom.
- A light waggler set 1–2ft deep with a single maggot or caster on a size 18.
- Loose-feed little and often to bring them up.
- Floating bread flake works brilliantly in summer.
Specimen Lake FAQs
Can I night fish on Specimen Lake?
Yes, by arrangement with the fishery. It’s the only lake where night fishing is allowed.
When can I fish for pike?
For non-season-ticket holders, pike fishing is October–March only.
What's the lake record on Specimen Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery advertises carp and pike to 27½ lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Specimen Lake?
carp, bream, rudd, perch, pike. The fishery advertises carp and pike to 27½ lb.
How big is Specimen Lake and how many swims?
Around 14 acres. The big-water option for carp and arranged overnighters.
Which baits work well on Specimen Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Specimen 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 Specimen 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 Specimen 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 Woodland Waters before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Specimen 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 Specimen Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Specimen Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult general day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; Concession general day ticket £5.50 one rod; £7.50 two.; Adult carp day ticket £9 one rod; £11 two.; Concession carp day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; 24-hour carp ticket adults £25; concessions £20; rod allowance unspecified.; Evening general ticket, 5pm–dusk adults £5/£7 for one/two rods.; Evening general concessions £4/£6 for one/two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Specimen Lake?
It depends — Night fishing is on Specimen Lake only and must be arranged with the fishery. Fishing bivvies are permitted; lakeside tents are prohibited. Night anglers need torches and mobile-phone access.
Who does Specimen Lake suit?
Good for: Carp anglers after the venue’s specimen option; Anglers wanting an overnight session by arrangement. Less suited to: Anyone wanting a compact little pool; Anglers planning an unarranged overnight visit.
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
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Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Match Lake: mixed coarse fishing with an island and wooded banks
- Size
- 7 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, carp
Match Lake covers seven acres, with an island and wooded banks giving it some proper character. The species list is nicely mixed: tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch and carp.
The fishery advertises tench to 11½ lb, so there’s more to consider than carp alone. Matches can be arranged by phone, and Lakeview lodges overlook this water with fishing included in those stays.
The fishery advertises tench to 11½ lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Match Lake
Woodland Waters
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
- Mixed coarse anglers who enjoy a choice of species
- Clubs looking to arrange a match
Maybe not for
- Anglers wanting to night fish
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Match Lake
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Match Lake FAQs
How do I arrange a match?
Call the fishery to arrange matches with the fishery.
What features are described?
There’s an island and wooded banks on this seven-acre lake.
What's the lake record on Match Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery advertises tench to 11½ lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Match Lake?
tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, carp. The fishery advertises tench to 11½ lb.
How big is Match Lake and how many swims?
Around 7 acres. Mixed coarse fishing with an island and wooded banks.
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: with the fish the fishery lists here, 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 Woodland Waters 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: Adult general day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; Concession general day ticket £5.50 one rod; £7.50 two.; Adult carp day ticket £9 one rod; £11 two.; Concession carp day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; 24-hour carp ticket adults £25; concessions £20; rod allowance unspecified.; Evening general ticket, 5pm–dusk adults £5/£7 for one/two rods.; Evening general concessions £4/£6 for one/two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Match Lake?
It depends — Night fishing is on Specimen Lake only and must be arranged with the fishery. Fishing bivvies are permitted; lakeside tents are prohibited. Night anglers need torches and mobile-phone access.
Who does Match Lake suit?
Good for: Mixed coarse anglers who enjoy a choice of species; Clubs looking to arrange a match. Less suited to: Anglers wanting to night fish.
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
Small Carp Lake: a compact carp water with two islands
- Size
- 0.25 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Small Carp Lake is a quarter-acre water with two islands. That’s a very different proposition from the 14-acre Specimen Lake, with the emphasis firmly on a compact carp outing.
Carp are advertised to 10 lb. Keep the small-lake rules in mind before packing your bait and nets: groundbait and keepnets are prohibited on the small lakes.
The fishery advertises carp to 10 lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Small Carp Lake
Woodland Waters
Small Carp Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Small Carp Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers who prefer a compact carp water
- Day anglers interested in island features
Maybe not for
- Anglers seeking the venue’s largest advertised carp
- Anyone wanting to use groundbait or keepnets
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Small Carp Lake
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Small Carp Lake FAQs
How big is Small Carp Lake?
It’s a quarter-acre, with two islands.
What size carp are advertised?
The fishery advertises carp to 10 lb here.
What's the lake record on Small Carp Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery advertises carp to 10 lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Small Carp Lake?
carp. The fishery advertises carp to 10 lb.
Which baits work well on Small Carp Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Small Carp 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 Small Carp 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 Small Carp 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 Woodland Waters before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Small Carp 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 Small Carp Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Small Carp Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult general day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; Concession general day ticket £5.50 one rod; £7.50 two.; Adult carp day ticket £9 one rod; £11 two.; Concession carp day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; 24-hour carp ticket adults £25; concessions £20; rod allowance unspecified.; Evening general ticket, 5pm–dusk adults £5/£7 for one/two rods.; Evening general concessions £4/£6 for one/two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Small Carp Lake?
It depends — Night fishing is on Specimen Lake only and must be arranged with the fishery. Fishing bivvies are permitted; lakeside tents are prohibited. Night anglers need torches and mobile-phone access.
Who does Small Carp Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers who prefer a compact carp water; Day anglers interested in island features. Less suited to: Anglers seeking the venue’s largest advertised carp; Anyone wanting to use groundbait or keepnets.
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
Birch Lake: another mixed-species option for a coarse fishing day
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd
Birch Lake has carp, tench, bream, roach and rudd. It adds another mixed coarse option to the line-up, rather than making every visit a straight choice between specimen carp and Match Lake.
Its size isn’t published in the supplied details, and there aren’t any fish weights to put against it. Pick it for the stated species mix, and check any lake-specific restrictions with the fishery before setting up.
Lake photographs
A look around Birch Lake
Woodland Waters
Birch Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Birch Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers interested in mixed coarse species
- Day anglers wanting carp alongside tench and silvers
Maybe not for
- Anyone choosing a lake around published specimen weights
- Anglers wanting an overnight session
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Birch 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.
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.
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.
Birch Lake FAQs
What fish are in Birch Lake?
Carp, tench, bream, roach and rudd are listed.
How large is Birch Lake?
Its acreage isn’t published in the supplied details.
What's the lake record on Birch Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Birch 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.
How big is Birch Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Another mixed-species option for a coarse fishing day.
Which baits work well on Birch Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Birch 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 Birch 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 Birch 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 Woodland Waters before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Birch 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 Birch Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Birch Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult general day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; Concession general day ticket £5.50 one rod; £7.50 two.; Adult carp day ticket £9 one rod; £11 two.; Concession carp day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; 24-hour carp ticket adults £25; concessions £20; rod allowance unspecified.; Evening general ticket, 5pm–dusk adults £5/£7 for one/two rods.; Evening general concessions £4/£6 for one/two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Birch Lake?
It depends — Night fishing is on Specimen Lake only and must be arranged with the fishery. Fishing bivvies are permitted; lakeside tents are prohibited. Night anglers need torches and mobile-phone access.
Who does Birch Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers interested in mixed coarse species; Day anglers wanting carp alongside tench and silvers. Less suited to: Anyone choosing a lake around published specimen weights; Anglers wanting an overnight 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
Roach Pool: popular with juniors, with more than roach to target
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, crucian, roach
Don’t let the name narrow your thinking too much. Roach Pool has small carp, tench, crucians and roach, and it’s described as popular with juniors.
That makes it worth considering for a youngster’s outing, without promising easy bites or a bagged-up afternoon. Under-16s must have an adult with them, and its acreage isn’t published.
Lake photographs
A look around Roach Pool
Woodland Waters
Roach Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Roach Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Juniors fishing with an accompanying adult
- Coarse anglers interested in crucians and roach
Maybe not for
- Anglers focused on specimen carp
- Under-16s planning to fish alone
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Roach 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.
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.
crucian
Delicate float for crucians
Crucian bites are tiny dips and lifts, so a sensitive float shotted right down is what catches them.
- Fish a small insert waggler or pole float over-depth by an inch.
- Corn, maggot or a 4mm pellet on a size 16–18.
- Strike at any small movement — crucians rarely bury the float.
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.
Roach Pool FAQs
Is Roach Pool popular with younger anglers?
Yes, it’s described as popular with juniors. Under-16s require adult accompaniment.
Does it only contain roach?
No. Small carp, tench and crucians are also listed.
What's the lake record on Roach Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Roach 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 Roach Pool?
carp, tench, crucian, roach.
How big is Roach Pool and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Popular with juniors, with more than roach to target.
Which baits work well on Roach Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Roach 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 Roach 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 Roach 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 Woodland Waters before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Roach 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 Roach Pool on a day ticket?
Yes — Roach Pool is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult general day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; Concession general day ticket £5.50 one rod; £7.50 two.; Adult carp day ticket £9 one rod; £11 two.; Concession carp day ticket £7 one rod; £9 two.; 24-hour carp ticket adults £25; concessions £20; rod allowance unspecified.; Evening general ticket, 5pm–dusk adults £5/£7 for one/two rods.; Evening general concessions £4/£6 for one/two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Roach Pool?
It depends — Night fishing is on Specimen Lake only and must be arranged with the fishery. Fishing bivvies are permitted; lakeside tents are prohibited. Night anglers need torches and mobile-phone access.
Who does Roach Pool suit?
Good for: Juniors fishing with an accompanying adult; Coarse anglers interested in crucians and roach. Less suited to: Anglers focused on specimen carp; Under-16s planning to fish alone.
Community reported
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Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- Only if
Can I fish overnight?
Night fishing is on Specimen Lake only and must be arranged with the fishery. Fishing bivvies are permitted; lakeside tents are prohibited. Night anglers need torches and mobile-phone access.
- Seasonal
Can I fish for pike all year without a season ticket?
Non-season-ticket holders may fish for pike October–March only.
- Must
Must I disinfect nets and use barbless hooks?
Disinfect nets and use barbless hooks.
- Must
Is there a minimum line strength?
Minimum line strength is 10 lb for carp and pike, and 3 lb for other species.
- Must
Must I return fish and use an unhooking mat?
Return fish and use unhooking mats.
- Must
Do under-16s need an adult with them?
Under-16s require adult accompaniment.
- No
Can I use keepnets or groundbait on the small lakes?
Small lakes prohibit keepnets and groundbait.
- No
Can I leave baited rods unattended?
Never leave baited rods unattended.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 3 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.
Specimen Lake
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
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.
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.
rudd
Floating baits and shallow float for rudd
Rudd feed high in the water, often near reeds and lilies on warm days. Fish up in the water to them, not on the bottom.
- A light waggler set 1–2ft deep with a single maggot or caster on a size 18.
- Loose-feed little and often to bring them up.
- Floating bread flake works brilliantly in summer.
Match Lake
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Small Carp Lake
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Birch 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.
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.
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.
Roach 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.
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.
crucian
Delicate float for crucians
Crucian bites are tiny dips and lifts, so a sensitive float shotted right down is what catches them.
- Fish a small insert waggler or pole float over-depth by an inch.
- Corn, maggot or a 4mm pellet on a size 16–18.
- Strike at any small movement — crucians rarely bury the float.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Good background reading. Most of it is a few years old, so treat it as a starting point and ask on the day.
Videos linked by the fishery
What anglers reckon
7.8/10 from Tackle Index: Five lakes offer mixed coarse fishing and specimen options, with notable advertised carp, pike and tench sizes.
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 — “Woodland Waters has five lakes covering specimen carp, mixed coarse fishing and match days on a 72-acre holiday park near Grantham. There’s a proper spread of fishing, plus overnight sessions on Specimen Lake by arrangement.”
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 Woodland Waters
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