Fishery guide · Norfolk
Billingford Lakes
Billingford Lakes near Dereham gives you a proper choice: specimen carp, mixed coarse ponds and roughly a mile of River Wensum fishing. Swim-side parking keeps the faff down, but check gate times and spectator charges before heading over.
“7.4/10 — Advertised specimen carp and pike sit alongside a strong mixed coarse offering, without implying guaranteed catches.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Billingford Lakes near Dereham isn’t just one carp lake with a couple of extra pegs squeezed round the back. The Norfolk site covers 150 acres and contains eleven lakes and ponds, with over 100 pegs and approximately a mile of River Wensum fishing too. That gives you plenty to weigh up, whether you fancy settling into a carp swim or keeping things mixed.
- 8 lakes: Billingford Lake, Basil Todd Lake, Great Lake, John Wilson Lake, Cygnet Lake, Bittern Pond, Grebe Pond, Osprey Pond
- Fish: carp, pike, roach, rudd, bream, tench, perch, crucian
- Tickets from: Day ticket — £14
- Find it: Dereham · NR20 4RG
Plan your session
Fishery map of Billingford 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 David Smith. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
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Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Billingford Lakes
Billingford Lakes near Dereham isn’t just one carp lake with a couple of extra pegs squeezed round the back. The Norfolk site covers 150 acres and contains eleven lakes and ponds, with over 100 pegs and approximately a mile of River Wensum fishing too. That gives you plenty to weigh up, whether you fancy settling into a carp swim or keeping things mixed. Just don’t assume every bit of water is open for fishing.
Billingford Lake is the obvious starting point if bigger fish are your thing. It’s approximately 7.5 acres with 17 swims, and the fishery advertises carp exceeding 40lb and pike exceeding 20lb. Proper lumps, on those claims. Great Lake offers common, mirror and koi carp alongside pike and tench, while five-acre Cygnet has eleven swims and a carp, tench and perch line-up. There’s choice here without pretending every lake offers the same sort of session.
For mixed coarse fishing, six-acre Basil Todd has the broadest published species list: roach, rudd, bream, tench, carp, perch and crucians. Bittern Pond takes things in a different direction, with five swims, predominantly 5–6ft depths, and tench and crucians. Grebe is specifically described as suitable for beginners, with roach, rudd and golden rudd. If your idea of a cracking day isn’t all about a carp PB, those waters deserve a look.
John Wilson Lake is the small-water option: one acre, four swims and approximately 25 carp. Exclusive bookings go through the bailiff, which makes it worth asking about if you want the lake to yourselves. Elsewhere, Kingfisher and Teal are stock ponds with no fishing, and Osprey is listed as under maintenance. The eleven-water headline therefore needs a little care; it doesn’t mean eleven waters you can simply turn up and fish.
Ordinary fishing needs no advance booking. You pay the visiting bailiff by cash or card, and swim-side parking is advertised, so there’s less carrying to factor into your plans. Fishing is advertised seven days weekly, with day, twilight and 24-hour tickets available. There’s also a separate coarse day ticket covering Basil Todd, Bittern and the river. Under-16s pay half price but must have adult supervision; Basil Todd also takes match bookings by telephone.
Before loading the car, sort the practical bits. The directions give NR20 4RF for sat-nav, while the website footer shows NR20 4RG. Gate-locking times and spectator charges also differ between pages, so a quick check could save a proper faff. Read the rules for your chosen water rather than assuming they’re identical: Basil Todd is daytime-only with two rods maximum, while the specimen rules cover designated swims, padded mats and attended rods. We haven’t fished here; this guide sticks to the published details.
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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Billingford Lakes FAQs
Which postcode should I use?
The directions specify sat-nav postcode NR20 4RF, while the website footer gives NR20 4RG. The supplied coordinates identify the photographed lakes access road, not the fishery centre.
What periods do the tickets cover?
The day ticket covers 7am–7pm; twilight covers 4pm–9am; the 24-hour ticket starts on arrival. Season membership starts when joining and lasts twelve months, with individual sessions limited to 72 hours. The winter ticket covers October 1–March 31.
How much do spectators pay?
Check before visiting: the fishing page lists £5, but the FAQ lists £3.
Can I fish every pond and the river?
No. Kingfisher and Teal are stock ponds with no fishing, and Osprey is listed as under maintenance. Approximately one mile of River Wensum fishing is included at the fishery; the coarse day ticket covers the river, Basil Todd and Bittern.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
We haven't found a tackle shop on site at Billingford Lakes. Sort your bait and end tackle before you travel, as there's no guarantee of anything close by near Dereham.
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 — swim-side parking. Walks to the further pegs can be a trek, so a barrow helps.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
NR20 4RG.
How much is a ticket?
Day ticket: £14; Twilight ticket: £19; 24-hour ticket: £26; Coarse day ticket: £12; Season ticket: £575; Winter ticket: £255; Spectators — fishing page; confirm before visiting: £5; Spectators — FAQ; conflicts with fishing page: £3. 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 Billingford Lake, Basil Todd Lake, Great Lake, John Wilson Lake, Cygnet Lake, Bittern Pond, Grebe Pond, Osprey Pond. 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, pike, roach, rudd, bream, tench, perch, crucian. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
8 — Billingford Lake (Approximately 7.5), Basil Todd Lake (6), Great Lake (Not published), John Wilson Lake (1), Cygnet Lake (5), Bittern Pond (Not published), Grebe Pond (Not published), Osprey Pond (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
No — Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
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 — Use barbless hooks, maximum size 8, and an unhooking mat.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Yes, it's required — Use barbless hooks, maximum size 8, and an unhooking mat.
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.
Day ticket · turn up
Billingford Lake: the big-fish draw, with 17 swims
- Size
- Approximately 7.5 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, pike
Billingford Lake covers approximately 7.5 acres and has 17 swims. The fishery advertises carp exceeding 40lb and pike exceeding 20lb — a proper big-fish draw.
It’s one to consider if a specimen fish is the aim rather than a mixed bag. Those advertised sizes aren’t a promise of a bite, though, and the specimen rules are worth reading before you set up.
Carp exceeding 40lb and pike exceeding 20lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Billingford Lake
Billingford Lakes
Billingford Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Billingford Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp anglers interested in bigger fish
- Anglers interested in pike
Maybe not for
- Beginners looking for the explicitly beginner-friendly pond
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Billingford 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
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.
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.
Billingford Lake FAQs
How many swims are there?
There are 17 swims on approximately 7.5 acres.
How big are the fish advertised?
The fishery advertises carp exceeding 40lb and pike exceeding 20lb.
What's the lake record on Billingford Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Carp exceeding 40lb and pike exceeding 20lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Billingford Lake?
carp, pike. Carp exceeding 40lb and pike exceeding 20lb.
How big is Billingford Lake and how many swims?
Around Approximately 7.5 acres. The big-fish draw, with 17 swims.
Which baits work well on Billingford Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Billingford 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 Billingford 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 Billingford 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 Billingford Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Billingford 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 Billingford Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Billingford Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £14; Twilight ticket £19; 24-hour ticket £26; Coarse day ticket £12; Season ticket £575; Winter ticket £255; Spectators — fishing page; confirm before visiting £5; Spectators — FAQ; conflicts with fishing page £3 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Billingford Lake?
No — Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
Who does Billingford Lake suit?
Good for: Carp anglers interested in bigger fish; Anglers interested in pike. Less suited to: Beginners looking for the explicitly beginner-friendly pond.
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
Basil Todd Lake: six acres of mixed coarse choice
- Size
- 6 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- roach, rudd, bream, tench, carp, perch, crucian
Basil Todd has a cracking mixed species list: roach, rudd, bream, tench, carp, perch and crucians. At six acres, it’s a clear alternative to focusing purely on specimen carp.
The coarse day ticket covers this lake, and match bookings are available by telephone. Keep the lake-specific rules in mind: no night fishing, two rods maximum, barbless hooks no bigger than size 8, and an unhooking mat.
Lake photographs
A look around Basil Todd Lake
Billingford Lakes
Basil Todd Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Basil Todd Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Mixed coarse anglers
- Match organisers
Maybe not for
- Night anglers
- Anglers wanting to use more than two rods
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Basil Todd 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.
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.
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.
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.
Basil Todd Lake FAQs
Can I fish overnight?
No. Basil Todd rules prohibit night fishing.
How do I arrange a match?
Telephone the fishery for Basil Todd match bookings.
What's the lake record on Basil Todd Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Basil Todd 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 Basil Todd Lake?
roach, rudd, bream, tench, carp, perch, crucian.
How big is Basil Todd Lake and how many swims?
Around 6 acres. Six acres of mixed coarse choice.
Which baits work well on Basil Todd Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Basil Todd 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 Basil Todd 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 Basil Todd 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 Billingford Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Basil Todd 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 Basil Todd Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Basil Todd Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £14; Twilight ticket £19; 24-hour ticket £26; Coarse day ticket £12; Season ticket £575; Winter ticket £255; Spectators — fishing page; confirm before visiting £5; Spectators — FAQ; conflicts with fishing page £3 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Basil Todd Lake?
No — Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
Who does Basil Todd Lake suit?
Good for: Mixed coarse anglers; Match organisers. Less suited to: Night anglers; Anglers wanting to use more than two rods.
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
Great Lake: common, mirror and koi carp, plus pike and tench
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, pike, tench
Great Lake holds common, mirror and koi carp, with pike and tench also listed. That’s a different mix from the silverfish-focused beginner pond.
The supplied details don’t give its acreage, swim count or fish weights. Pick it for the advertised species rather than assuming the name tells you its size or what you’ll catch.
Lake photographs
A look around Great Lake
Billingford Lakes
Great Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Great Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp anglers
- Anglers interested in tench or pike
Maybe not for
- Visitors needing a published swim count before choosing
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Great 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.
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.
Great Lake FAQs
What types of carp are listed?
Common, mirror and koi carp.
How large is Great Lake?
Its acreage isn’t published in the supplied details.
What's the lake record on Great Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Great 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 Great Lake?
carp, pike, tench.
How big is Great Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Common, mirror and koi carp, plus pike and tench.
Which baits work well on Great Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Great 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 Great 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 Great 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 Billingford Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Great 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 Great Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Great Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £14; Twilight ticket £19; 24-hour ticket £26; Coarse day ticket £12; Season ticket £575; Winter ticket £255; Spectators — fishing page; confirm before visiting £5; Spectators — FAQ; conflicts with fishing page £3 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Great Lake?
No — Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
Who does Great Lake suit?
Good for: Carp anglers; Anglers interested in tench or pike. Less suited to: Visitors needing a published swim count before choosing.
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
John Wilson Lake: four swims, with exclusive bookings available
- Size
- 1 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
John Wilson Lake packs its published offering into one acre: four swims and approximately 25 carp. It’s the compact carp option among the named fishing lakes.
Exclusive bookings can be arranged through the bailiff. If having the whole water to yourselves is the plan, speak to them first rather than turning up expecting exclusivity.
Approximately 25 carp.
Lake photographs
A look around John Wilson Lake
Billingford Lakes
John Wilson Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s John Wilson Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Small-water carp anglers
- Groups interested in exclusive lake bookings
Maybe not for
- Groups needing more than four swims
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish John Wilson 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.
John Wilson Lake FAQs
How do I book exclusive use?
Contact the bailiff with the fishery.
How many carp are advertised?
Approximately 25 carp in the one-acre lake.
What's the lake record on John Wilson Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Approximately 25 carp. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in John Wilson Lake?
carp. Approximately 25 carp.
How big is John Wilson Lake and how many swims?
Around 1 acres. Four swims, with exclusive bookings available.
Which baits work well on John Wilson Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for John Wilson 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 John Wilson 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 John Wilson 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 Billingford Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on John Wilson 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 John Wilson Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — John Wilson Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £14; Twilight ticket £19; 24-hour ticket £26; Coarse day ticket £12; Season ticket £575; Winter ticket £255; Spectators — fishing page; confirm before visiting £5; Spectators — FAQ; conflicts with fishing page £3 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on John Wilson Lake?
No — Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
Who does John Wilson Lake suit?
Good for: Small-water carp anglers; Groups interested in exclusive lake bookings. Less suited to: Groups needing more than four swims.
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
Cygnet Lake: five acres with eleven swims
- Size
- 5 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, perch
Cygnet Lake covers five acres and has eleven swims. Carp, tench and perch are the published species here.
That makes it another option if those are the fish you’re after, rather than Basil Todd’s broader mixed list. No stock weights are supplied, so there’s no honest big-fish comparison to make.
Lake photographs
A look around Cygnet Lake
Billingford Lakes
Cygnet Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Cygnet Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp anglers
- Anglers interested in tench and perch
Maybe not for
- Anglers choosing solely on advertised fish weights
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Cygnet Lake
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
Cygnet Lake FAQs
How many swims does Cygnet have?
Eleven swims across five acres.
Which species are listed?
Carp, tench and perch.
What's the lake record on Cygnet Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Cygnet 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 Cygnet Lake?
carp, tench, perch.
How big is Cygnet Lake and how many swims?
Around 5 acres. Five acres with eleven swims.
Which baits work well on Cygnet Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Cygnet 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 Cygnet 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 Cygnet 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 Billingford Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Cygnet 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 Cygnet Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Cygnet Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £14; Twilight ticket £19; 24-hour ticket £26; Coarse day ticket £12; Season ticket £575; Winter ticket £255; Spectators — fishing page; confirm before visiting £5; Spectators — FAQ; conflicts with fishing page £3 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Cygnet Lake?
No — Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
Who does Cygnet Lake suit?
Good for: Carp anglers; Anglers interested in tench and perch. Less suited to: Anglers choosing solely on advertised fish weights.
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
Bittern Pond: a five-swim tench and crucian option
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- tench, crucian
Bittern Pond has five swims and is predominantly 5–6ft deep. The fishery says it’s stocked with tench and crucians — a lovely alternative on paper to the carp-lake line-up.
It’s included on the coarse day ticket alongside Basil Todd and the river. The depth description is useful, but it isn’t a full map of each swim, so don’t assume every spot is identical.
Stocked with tench and crucians.
Lake photographs
A look around Bittern Pond
Billingford Lakes
Bittern Pond
We’re checking the fishery’s Bittern Pond pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Tench anglers
- Crucian enthusiasts
Maybe not for
- Groups needing more than five swims
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Bittern Pond
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.
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.
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.
Bittern Pond FAQs
How deep is Bittern?
It is described as predominantly 5–6ft deep.
Is Bittern included on the coarse ticket?
Yes. The coarse day ticket covers Bittern, Basil Todd and the river.
What's the lake record on Bittern Pond?
Going by what the fishery says: Stocked with tench and crucians. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Bittern Pond?
tench, crucian. Stocked with tench and crucians.
How big is Bittern Pond and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A five-swim tench and crucian option.
Which baits work well on Bittern Pond?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Bittern 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: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Bittern 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 Bittern 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 Billingford Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Bittern 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 Bittern Pond on a day ticket?
Yes — Bittern Pond is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £14; Twilight ticket £19; 24-hour ticket £26; Coarse day ticket £12; Season ticket £575; Winter ticket £255; Spectators — fishing page; confirm before visiting £5; Spectators — FAQ; conflicts with fishing page £3 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Bittern Pond?
No — Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
Who does Bittern Pond suit?
Good for: Tench anglers; Crucian enthusiasts. Less suited to: Groups needing more than five swims.
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
Grebe Pond: the beginner-friendly choice
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- roach, rudd
Grebe Pond is specifically described as suitable for beginners. Its published fish list is roach, rudd and golden rudd.
That gives newcomers a clear starting point among the larger carp and mixed coarse waters. Under-16s must still have adult supervision, so this isn’t a drop-the-kids-off arrangement.
Lake photographs
A look around Grebe Pond
Billingford Lakes
Grebe Pond
We’re checking the fishery’s Grebe Pond pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Beginners
- Supervised junior anglers
Maybe not for
- Anglers targeting the advertised specimen carp
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Grebe Pond
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.
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.
Grebe Pond FAQs
Is Grebe suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is explicitly described as a beginner-friendly pond.
What fish are listed?
Roach, rudd and golden rudd.
What's the lake record on Grebe Pond?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Grebe 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 Grebe Pond?
roach, rudd.
How big is Grebe Pond and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The beginner-friendly choice.
Which baits work well on Grebe Pond?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Grebe 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 Grebe 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 Grebe 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 Billingford Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Grebe 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 Grebe Pond on a day ticket?
Yes — Grebe Pond is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £14; Twilight ticket £19; 24-hour ticket £26; Coarse day ticket £12; Season ticket £575; Winter ticket £255; Spectators — fishing page; confirm before visiting £5; Spectators — FAQ; conflicts with fishing page £3 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Grebe Pond?
No — Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
Who does Grebe Pond suit?
Good for: Beginners; Supervised junior anglers. Less suited to: Anglers targeting the advertised specimen carp.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Osprey Pond: under maintenance — check before planning a session
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Osprey Pond is listed as under maintenance. Don’t count it as an available fishing option when planning your visit.
No reopening date, size or species list is supplied. Ask the fishery about its current position before making plans around this pond.
Lake photographs
A look around Osprey Pond
Billingford Lakes
Osprey Pond
We’re checking the fishery’s Osprey Pond pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Visitors willing to check its current status
- Anglers happy to choose another water
Maybe not for
- Anyone relying on confirmed fishing access
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Osprey Pond
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.
Osprey Pond FAQs
Can I currently fish Osprey?
It is listed as under maintenance; fishing access is not confirmed.
When will it reopen?
No reopening date is supplied.
What's the lake record on Osprey Pond?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Osprey 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 Osprey Pond?
carp.
How big is Osprey Pond and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Under maintenance — check before planning a session.
Which baits work well on Osprey Pond?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Osprey 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 Osprey 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 Osprey 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 Billingford Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Osprey 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 Osprey Pond on a day ticket?
Yes — Osprey Pond is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket £14; Twilight ticket £19; 24-hour ticket £26; Coarse day ticket £12; Season ticket £575; Winter ticket £255; Spectators — fishing page; confirm before visiting £5; Spectators — FAQ; conflicts with fishing page £3 (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Osprey Pond?
No — Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
Who does Osprey Pond suit?
Good for: Visitors willing to check its current status; Anglers happy to choose another water. Less suited to: Anyone relying on confirmed fishing 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
Venue Rule Checker
- No
Do ordinary sessions need advance booking?
Pay the visiting bailiff by cash or card; exclusive John Wilson bookings are arranged separately.
- Must
Must under-16s have adult supervision?
Under-16s pay half price and must have adult supervision.
- No
Can I night fish on Basil Todd?
Night fishing is prohibited, and anglers are limited to two rods.
- Must
Does Basil Todd require barbless hooks and a mat?
Use barbless hooks, maximum size 8, and an unhooking mat.
- Must
Must specimen anglers use designated swims and attend their rods?
Specimen rules require designated swims, suitable padded mats and attended rods.
- No
Are carp sacks or fish transfers allowed under specimen rules?
Carp sacks and transferring fish are prohibited.
- No
Can I reserve a specimen swim, swim or fly a drone?
The specimen rules prohibit reserving swims, swimming and drones.
- Only if
Should I confirm gate access beforehand?
The fishing page gives gate-locking times of 8pm–6am, while the FAQ says locked at 7pm.
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.
Billingford 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
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.
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.
Basil Todd 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.
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.
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.
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.
Great 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.
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.
John Wilson 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.
Cygnet Lake
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
perch
Worm or small lure for the perch
Perch hang round cover, boats and drop-offs. A lobworm on a light float, or a small lure worked along the features, will find them.
- Fish lobworm under a float tight to cover.
- On lures, try a small drop shot or soft shad near features.
- Feed chopped worm to keep them in the swim.
Bittern Pond
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.
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.
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.
Grebe Pond
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.
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.
Osprey Pond
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.
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: Advertised specimen carp and pike sit alongside a strong mixed coarse offering, without implying guaranteed 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.
We haven’t found any public angler reviews of this venue yet. Fished it? Add yours below.
Our take on the feedback
Our read
Checked Sept '26 — “Billingford Lakes near Dereham gives you a proper choice: specimen carp, mixed coarse ponds and roughly a mile of River Wensum fishing. Swim-side parking keeps the faff down, but check gate times and spectator charges before heading over.”
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 Billingford Lakes
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