Fishery guide · Northamptonshire
Bluebell Lakes
Five very different day-ticket lakes, from heavily stocked Mallard to the specimen-focused Kingfisher and Swan.
“8.5/10 — A polished, well-equipped complex with genuine variety, best enjoyed when you choose the lake to match your experience rather than simply chasing the biggest fish.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Bluebell is one of those complexes where choosing the right water matters. Mallard gives you acres and numbers, Bluebell is the gentler starting point, while Kingfisher and Swan carry stricter tackle and experience rules.
- 5 lakes: Kingfisher, Swan, Bluebell, Sandmartin, Mallard
- Fish: carp, pike, perch, catfish, tench, bream
- Tickets from: Ticket prices — See live price list
- Find it: Tansor, near Oundle · PE8 5HP
Plan your session
Fishery map of Bluebell Lakes
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
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How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Fishery
Bluebell Lakes
We haven’t got permission to show venue photos here yet. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Bluebell Lakes
Bluebell is one of those complexes where choosing the right water matters. Mallard gives you acres and numbers, Bluebell is the gentler starting point, while Kingfisher and Swan carry stricter tackle and experience rules.
There’s no advance swim booking: report to reception, check what is free and follow the fishery’s arrival system. Kingfisher is a minimum 24-hour ticket, so it is not the lake for a quick day session.
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.
“I have been to the complex many times and fish for stunning fish in stunning surroundings, never once have I been remotely concerned about anything, apart from the barbless rule.”
— harveyboy, Apr 2022 · CarpForum
“It was always busy but if you kept your eyes open and kept on your toes you'd get on fish on any of the waters. It was brilliant.”
— yonny, Apr 2022 · CarpForum
“Very hard very pressured lakes . You can't get a swim at times . Lots of weed and the carp have seen everything .”
— solihull angler, May 2025 · Maggotdrowning forum
Bluebell Lakes FAQs
Do I book a swim?
No. Report to reception, check the vacant pegs and follow the fishery’s arrival system.
Which lake is best for a first visit?
Bluebell is presented as the friendlier starting point; Mallard is the heavily stocked larger option.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's tackle shop on site, so you can grab bits on the day. For anything bigger, stock up before you leave home — or order online in advance.
Do I need to bring food?
There's café/snack bar 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?
Yes — the fishery lists showers and toilets.
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?
PE8 5HP. This is the Tansor fishery near Oundle. Check the official directions before setting off, as there are other places with similar names.
How much is a ticket?
Ticket prices: See live price list; Kingfisher: 24 hours minimum. Prices last checked 2026-10-01 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Kingfisher, Swan, Bluebell, Sandmartin, Mallard. 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, perch, catfish, tench, bream. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
5 — Kingfisher (about 7–8), Swan (about 12), Bluebell (about 7), Sandmartin (about 7), Mallard (about 20).
Is night fishing allowed?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Can I bring my dog?
Not covered in the rules we've checked. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Are bait boats allowed?
Yes — Allowed within your own swim.
Do I need barbless hooks?
No — Barbless hooks only.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Yes, it's required — A 42-inch landing net and suitable unhooking mat are required.
Is it suitable for disabled anglers?
We haven't seen disabled access listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Do I need a rod licence?
Yes — anyone 13 or over fishing in England and Wales needs an Environment Agency rod licence (or Natural Resources Wales in Wales), on top of your fishery ticket.
When's the best time of year to fish here?
Late spring through autumn is prime for most species. Check our live weather edge for this venue before you go — it updates daily.
Anglers' photos
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Day ticket · turn up
Kingfisher: the famous specimen water
A serious specimen lake with strong published stock, but strict access and a 24-hour minimum.
- Fishing Quality
- 10/10
- Swims & Banks
- 8/10
- Facilities
- 9/10
- Ease of Access
- 5/10
- Value for Money
- 7/10
Judged from the fishery’s current lake description and published stock snapshot.
Reflects the published lake size, swim count and the amount of water anglers need to cover.
Uses the facilities listed for the wider complex.
Reflects booking, arrival and any lake-specific restrictions.
Balances the current ticket options with the type of fishing offered.
- Size
- about 7–8 acres
- Swims
- 15
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, pike, perch
Kingfisher is Bluebell’s best-known big-fish lake and the former home of Benson. It carries a 24-hour minimum ticket and stricter rules than the easier waters.
Anglers must be 16 or over, use at least 12lb main line and carry the fish-care kit listed by the venue.
The fishery lists carp over 50lb and says more than 40 fish are over 30lb. Stock figures change, so check the latest reports.
Lake photographs
A look around Kingfisher
Photos courtesy of Bluebell Lakes. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Suits
- Experienced specimen carp anglers
- Planned overnight sessions
Maybe not for
- Beginners
- Short day sessions
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Kingfisher
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.
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.
Kit worth a look for this lake
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As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Kingfisher FAQs
Can I buy a day ticket?
No. Kingfisher has a 24-hour minimum.
Can I pike fish here?
No. Bluebell does not permit pike fishing on Kingfisher or Swan.
What's the lake record on Kingfisher?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery lists carp over 50lb and says more than 40 fish are over 30lb. Stock figures change, so check the latest reports. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Kingfisher?
carp, pike, perch. The fishery lists carp over 50lb and says more than 40 fish are over 30lb. Stock figures change, so check the latest reports.
How big is Kingfisher and how many swims?
Around about 7–8 acres with 15 swims. The famous specimen water.
Which baits work well on Kingfisher?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Kingfisher 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 Kingfisher get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Kingfisher?
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 Bluebell Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Kingfisher?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Kingfisher on a day ticket?
Yes — Kingfisher is on the day ticket. Tickets: Ticket prices See live price list; Kingfisher 24 hours minimum (last checked 2026-10-01).
Is night fishing allowed on Kingfisher?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Kingfisher suit?
Good for: Experienced specimen carp anglers; Planned overnight sessions. Less suited to: Beginners; Short day sessions.
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
Swan: a bigger specimen-water challenge
A roomy specimen water with carp and catfish, best suited to experienced anglers.
- Fishing Quality
- 9/10
- Swims & Banks
- 8/10
- Facilities
- 9/10
- Ease of Access
- 6/10
- Value for Money
- 7/10
Judged from the fishery’s current lake description and published stock snapshot.
Reflects the published lake size, swim count and the amount of water anglers need to cover.
Uses the facilities listed for the wider complex.
Reflects booking, arrival and any lake-specific restrictions.
Balances the current ticket options with the type of fishing offered.
- Size
- about 12 acres
- Swims
- 20
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, catfish
Swan is a larger specimen water with a deeper north bank and the same experienced-angler rules used on Kingfisher.
It is also the only Bluebell lake where the fishery lists catfish, which changes the tackle and fish-care questions you need to ask before fishing.
The fishery identifies Swan as the only lake on the complex holding catfish.
Lake photographs
A look around Swan
Photos courtesy of Bluebell Lakes. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Suits
- Experienced carp anglers
- Anglers specifically prepared for catfish
Maybe not for
- First carp trips
- Pike anglers
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Swan
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
Venue rule: Leadcore is banned here, so run it on a mono or tubing leader with the top bead set to release — never fixed.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
catfish
Big hookbaits after dark for the cats
Catfish come out at night and like strong smells. A big halibut pellet or fish-based bait over a small bed of pellet is the usual approach.
- Fish strong — 20lb+ line and a big strong hook.
- Use an unhooking mat and a big net; cats are long and heavy.
- Check the venue's rules on cat tackle before you set up.
Kit worth a look for this lake
These open Amazon search results — check it’s the right version before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Swan FAQs
Are there catfish?
Yes. The fishery says Swan is its only catfish water.
What's the lake record on Swan?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery identifies Swan as the only lake on the complex holding catfish. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Swan?
carp, catfish. The fishery identifies Swan as the only lake on the complex holding catfish.
How big is Swan and how many swims?
Around about 12 acres with 20 swims. A bigger specimen-water challenge.
Which baits work well on Swan?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Swan 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 Swan 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 Swan?
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 Bluebell Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Swan?
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 Swan on a day ticket?
Yes — Swan is on the day ticket. Tickets: Ticket prices See live price list; Kingfisher 24 hours minimum (last checked 2026-10-01).
Is night fishing allowed on Swan?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Swan suit?
Good for: Experienced carp anglers; Anglers specifically prepared for catfish. Less suited to: First carp trips; Pike anglers.
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
Bluebell: the friendlier all-round carp lake
An approachable, feature-rich lake with handy vehicle access to most swims.
- Fishing Quality
- 8/10
- Swims & Banks
- 8/10
- Facilities
- 9/10
- Ease of Access
- 9/10
- Value for Money
- 8/10
Judged from the fishery’s current lake description and published stock snapshot.
Reflects the published lake size, swim count and the amount of water anglers need to cover.
Uses the facilities listed for the wider complex.
Reflects booking, arrival and any lake-specific restrictions.
Balances the current ticket options with the type of fishing offered.
- Size
- about 7 acres
- Swims
- 15
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream
Bluebell is tree-lined with willows, reeds and lily pads, giving it a more intimate feel than the bigger pits.
The fishery says most pegs have vehicle access and presents it as suitable for less experienced anglers, though normal fish-care and safe-rig rules still apply.
The fishery lists carp to 40lb, plus bream and tench.
Lake photographs
A look around Bluebell
Photos courtesy of Bluebell Lakes. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Suits
- Anglers building confidence
- Feature fishing at sensible range
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting Bluebell’s strictest specimen-water challenge
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Bluebell
carp
Solid PVA bag over the snaggy bits
With the lily beds and a busy bottom, a solid bag keeps the hook point masked on the drop and sat neatly in a little pile of bait however rough the lakebed is.
- Tie a short, stiff hooklink (4–6in) so it packs into the bag without kinking.
- Fill the bag with a damp crumb mix and pack it tight — loose bags spill on the cast.
- Nick a wafter or small pop-up on the hair so it settles over the mix, not under it.
- Cast a few yards short of the feature, recast every couple of hours with a fresh bag.
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.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench near the cover
Tench love lily beds. 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.
Kit worth a look for this lake
These open Amazon search results — check it’s the right version before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Bluebell FAQs
Can I get close to the peg by car?
The fishery says roughly 95% of pegs have vehicle access; check on arrival.
What's the lake record on Bluebell?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery lists carp to 40lb, plus bream and tench. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Bluebell?
carp, tench, bream. The fishery lists carp to 40lb, plus bream and tench.
How big is Bluebell and how many swims?
Around about 7 acres with 15 swims. The friendlier all-round carp lake.
Which baits work well on Bluebell?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Bluebell 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 Bluebell 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 Bluebell?
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 Bluebell Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Bluebell?
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 Bluebell on a day ticket?
Yes — Bluebell is on the day ticket. Tickets: Ticket prices See live price list; Kingfisher 24 hours minimum (last checked 2026-10-01).
Is night fishing allowed on Bluebell?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Bluebell suit?
Good for: Anglers building confidence; Feature fishing at sensible range. Less suited to: Anyone wanting Bluebell’s strictest specimen-water challenge.
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
Sandmartin: deep holes, weed and proper features
A compact specimen water with depth, weed and plenty to work out.
- Fishing Quality
- 9/10
- Swims & Banks
- 8/10
- Facilities
- 9/10
- Ease of Access
- 8/10
- Value for Money
- 8/10
Judged from the fishery’s current lake description and published stock snapshot.
Reflects the published lake size, swim count and the amount of water anglers need to cover.
Uses the facilities listed for the wider complex.
Reflects booking, arrival and any lake-specific restrictions.
Balances the current ticket options with the type of fishing offered.
- Size
- about 7 acres
- Swims
- 14
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Sandmartin packs a lot into roughly seven acres: holes reported to around 20ft, weed patches and an old concrete pumping platform.
That variety rewards careful plumbing and sensible line control rather than simply casting at the most obvious feature.
The fishery reports carp over 50lb, including a known common called Tilley.
Lake photographs
A look around Sandmartin
Bluebell Lakes
Sandmartin
We’re checking the fishery’s Sandmartin pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Feature-focused carp anglers
- Anglers happy to spend time finding clear spots
Maybe not for
- A totally fuss-free first session
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Sandmartin
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
Venue rule: Leadcore is banned here, so run it on a mono or tubing leader with the top bead set to release — never fixed.
carp
Solid PVA bag over the snaggy bits
With the features and a busy bottom, a solid bag keeps the hook point masked on the drop and sat neatly in a little pile of bait however rough the lakebed is.
- Tie a short, stiff hooklink (4–6in) so it packs into the bag without kinking.
- Fill the bag with a damp crumb mix and pack it tight — loose bags spill on the cast.
- Nick a wafter or small pop-up on the hair so it settles over the mix, not under it.
- Cast a few yards short of the feature, recast every couple of hours with a fresh bag.
Kit worth a look for this lake
These open Amazon search results — check it’s the right version before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Sandmartin FAQs
Is it a flat-bottomed lake?
No. The fishery describes deep holes, weed and a concrete feature.
What's the lake record on Sandmartin?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery reports carp over 50lb, including a known common called Tilley. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Sandmartin?
carp. The fishery reports carp over 50lb, including a known common called Tilley.
How big is Sandmartin and how many swims?
Around about 7 acres with 14 swims. Deep holes, weed and proper features.
Which baits work well on Sandmartin?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Sandmartin 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 Sandmartin 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 Sandmartin?
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 Bluebell Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Sandmartin?
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 Sandmartin on a day ticket?
Yes — Sandmartin is on the day ticket. Tickets: Ticket prices See live price list; Kingfisher 24 hours minimum (last checked 2026-10-01).
Is night fishing allowed on Sandmartin?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Sandmartin suit?
Good for: Feature-focused carp anglers; Anglers happy to spend time finding clear spots. Less suited to: A totally fuss-free first 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
Mallard: the big, heavily stocked action water
A large, heavily stocked action water with plenty of room and 33 mapped pegs.
- Fishing Quality
- 9/10
- Swims & Banks
- 8/10
- Facilities
- 9/10
- Ease of Access
- 9/10
- Value for Money
- 8/10
Judged from the fishery’s current lake description and published stock snapshot.
Reflects the published lake size, swim count and the amount of water anglers need to cover.
Uses the facilities listed for the wider complex.
Reflects booking, arrival and any lake-specific restrictions.
Balances the current ticket options with the type of fishing offered.
- Size
- about 20 acres
- Swims
- 33
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Mallard is the largest Bluebell water covered here and the one with the heaviest stated stocking.
Thirty-three pegs spread around roughly 20 acres means watercraft still matters: a big head of fish does not make every swim equally productive on every day.
The fishery describes Mallard as its most heavily stocked lake, with many carp in the 15–30lb bracket and some approaching 50lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Mallard
Photos courtesy of Bluebell Lakes. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Suits
- Anglers wanting a realistic chance of action
- First longer session at Bluebell
Maybe not for
- Anyone wanting a tiny, intimate pool
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Mallard
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
Venue rule: Leadcore is banned here, so run it on a mono or tubing leader with the top bead set to release — never fixed.
Kit worth a look for this lake
These open Amazon search results — check it’s the right version before you buy.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Mallard FAQs
How many pegs are there?
The official peg map lists 33.
What's the lake record on Mallard?
Going by what the fishery says: The fishery describes Mallard as its most heavily stocked lake, with many carp in the 15–30lb bracket and some approaching 50lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Mallard?
carp. The fishery describes Mallard as its most heavily stocked lake, with many carp in the 15–30lb bracket and some approaching 50lb.
How big is Mallard and how many swims?
Around about 20 acres with 33 swims. The big, heavily stocked action water.
Which baits work well on Mallard?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Mallard 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 Mallard 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 Mallard?
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 Bluebell Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Mallard?
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 Mallard on a day ticket?
Yes — Mallard is on the day ticket. Tickets: Ticket prices See live price list; Kingfisher 24 hours minimum (last checked 2026-10-01).
Is night fishing allowed on Mallard?
We haven't seen a clear night-fishing rule for this lake. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Who does Mallard suit?
Good for: Anglers wanting a realistic chance of action; First longer session at Bluebell. Less suited to: Anyone wanting a tiny, intimate pool.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
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How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- No
Barbed hooks?
Barbless hooks only.
- No
Braided main line?
No braided main line; braid hooklinks are allowed except on zigs.
- Must
42-inch net and mat?
A 42-inch landing net and suitable unhooking mat are required.
- No
Maggots for carp?
Maggots are not allowed for carp fishing.
- Yes
Bait boat?
Allowed within your own swim.
- No
Under 16?
Kingfisher and Swan are for experienced anglers aged 16 or over.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 1 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.
Kingfisher
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.
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.
Swan
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
Venue rule: Leadcore is banned here, so run it on a mono or tubing leader with the top bead set to release — never fixed.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
catfish
Big hookbaits after dark for the cats
Catfish come out at night and like strong smells. A big halibut pellet or fish-based bait over a small bed of pellet is the usual approach.
- Fish strong — 20lb+ line and a big strong hook.
- Use an unhooking mat and a big net; cats are long and heavy.
- Check the venue's rules on cat tackle before you set up.
Bluebell
carp
Solid PVA bag over the snaggy bits
With the lily beds and a busy bottom, a solid bag keeps the hook point masked on the drop and sat neatly in a little pile of bait however rough the lakebed is.
- Tie a short, stiff hooklink (4–6in) so it packs into the bag without kinking.
- Fill the bag with a damp crumb mix and pack it tight — loose bags spill on the cast.
- Nick a wafter or small pop-up on the hair so it settles over the mix, not under it.
- Cast a few yards short of the feature, recast every couple of hours with a fresh bag.
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.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench near the cover
Tench love lily beds. 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.
Sandmartin
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
Venue rule: Leadcore is banned here, so run it on a mono or tubing leader with the top bead set to release — never fixed.
carp
Solid PVA bag over the snaggy bits
With the features and a busy bottom, a solid bag keeps the hook point masked on the drop and sat neatly in a little pile of bait however rough the lakebed is.
- Tie a short, stiff hooklink (4–6in) so it packs into the bag without kinking.
- Fill the bag with a damp crumb mix and pack it tight — loose bags spill on the cast.
- Nick a wafter or small pop-up on the hair so it settles over the mix, not under it.
- Cast a few yards short of the feature, recast every couple of hours with a fresh bag.
Mallard
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
Venue rule: Leadcore is banned here, so run it on a mono or tubing leader with the top bead set to release — never fixed.
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
A polished, well-equipped complex with genuine variety, best enjoyed when you choose the lake to match your experience rather than simply chasing the biggest fish.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
“I have been to the complex many times and fish for stunning fish in stunning surroundings, never once have I been remotely concerned about anything, apart from the barbless rule.”
— harveyboy, Apr 2022 · CarpForum
“It was always busy but if you kept your eyes open and kept on your toes you'd get on fish on any of the waters. It was brilliant.”
— yonny, Apr 2022 · CarpForum
“Very hard very pressured lakes . You can't get a swim at times . Lots of weed and the carp have seen everything .”
— solihull angler, May 2025 · Maggotdrowning forum
Our take on the feedback
Proper facilities
Checked Sept '26 — “Showers, café, shop. Long sessions feel a lot less grim.”
Age limits apply
Checked Sept '26 — “Some lakes have age rules, worth knowing before bringing a youngster along.”
Long sessions are well catered for
Checked Sept '26 — “The shop, café, showers and toilets make the venue practical for anglers staying beyond a quick day trip.”
Worth the drive
Checked Sept '26 — “Plenty of variety under one roof, so it's an easy one to come back to and try a different water each time.”
Kit up for Swan
Checked Sept '26 — “Swan's got stricter tackle expectations, so check what's required before you load the barrow.”
Polished, not wild
Checked Sept '26 — “It's a tidy, well-run complex. Lovely if you like that, less so if you're after a scruffy old pit vibe.”
Kingfisher means business
Checked Sept '26 — “24 hours minimum on Kingfisher. It's a big-fish water and it fishes like one.”
Start on Mallard
Checked Sept '26 — “If you're newer to it, Mallard or Bluebell will keep you busier and happier while you learn the place.”
A lake for different moods
Checked Sept '26 — “Mallard and Bluebell offer a more approachable route in, while Kingfisher and Swan are aimed at experienced specimen anglers.”
Check the stricter waters
Checked Sept '26 — “Kingfisher has a 24-hour minimum and both Kingfisher and Swan carry tighter age and tackle expectations.”
Pick the lake, then the bait
Checked Sept '26 — “The lakes are different enough that one plan won't suit them all, so sort the water out first.”
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 Bluebell Lakes
No angler score yet — nobody's reviewed Bluebell Lakes here. Be the first and get the score started.