Fishery guide · Nottinghamshire
Hallcroft Fishery
Hallcroft is a proper mixed-coarse option in Retford, with six lakes, a stretch of the River Idle and plenty of pegs. There’s room for pleasure fishing alongside the match-lake setup, including pleasure-only River Ponds.
“7.5/10 — Six lakes, mixed-coarse stocks and an advertised river stretch give plenty of fishing appeal, without claiming anything about catch rates.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Hallcroft Fishery and Holiday Park sits on Hallcroft Road in Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7RA. The operator advertises six lakes plus fishing on a stretch of the River Idle, so there’s more here than one pool and a handful of pegs. The park covers over 60 acres, but don’t mistake that for the amount of water: it’s the whole site.
- 6 lakes: Moat Pool, Bridge Pool, Croft Pool, River Ponds, Reed Pool, Canal Pool
- Fish: carp
- Tickets from: Adult pleasure-fishing day ticket — £7 for one rod or £9 for two rods, per person.
- Find it: Retford · DN22 7RA
Plan your session
Fishery map of Hallcroft Fishery
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Gareth Hart. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
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The full rundown on Hallcroft Fishery
Hallcroft Fishery and Holiday Park sits on Hallcroft Road in Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7RA. The operator advertises six lakes plus fishing on a stretch of the River Idle, so there’s more here than one pool and a handful of pegs. The park covers over 60 acres, but don’t mistake that for the amount of water: it’s the whole site. Individual lake acreages aren’t published in the checked details, so peg numbers are the more useful guide to the layout.
The lake stocks include common and mirror carp, bream, tench, perch and roach. That’s a cracking mixed-coarse line-up if you like having options rather than making every trip purely about carp. Those species are listed for the lakes collectively, though, not pool by pool. We haven’t fished Hallcroft, and there’s no checked breakdown of fish sizes or stocking numbers here. Treat it as a venue with mixed-coarse appeal, not a promise of lumps or a guaranteed PB.
Moat Pool is the big peg-count name, listed with 190, while Bridge Pool has 84 in the newer listing; older directories say 80. Croft Pool and River Ponds each have 28 pegs, with River Ponds specifically marked as pleasure fishing only. Reed Pool has some larger platforms intended for elderly or disabled anglers. Canal Pool adds another shape to the mix at approximately 11–12 metres wide. That width is useful context for pole anglers, without pretending we know its depths, features or best swims.
There’s a river option too. The advertised stretch of the Idle contains pike, barbel and chub, giving Hallcroft a different angle beyond its coarse lakes. Don’t assume the river and every pool share the same access arrangements, though. The accommodation booking page says the park is open all year, but that doesn’t settle year-round access to every fishing water. Likewise, a holiday park address isn’t permission for a cheeky overnight session: the current night-fishing position needs checking directly.
Before loading the barrow, give the tackle rules a proper look. It’s barbless hooks only, with size 12 the maximum, and hooklengths must be at least four inches. Poles are capped at 14.5 metres. Only single-strand nylon monofilament is allowed, so braid and hybrid lines stay at home. In-line feeders are permitted, but feeders and bombs must be free-running. Floating and seafood baits are out too. Getting that sorted before you leave saves a fair bit of bank-side faff.
The onsite tackle shop is handy, and its published hours give you a shopping window rather than confirmed fishing-gate times. Check access before planning an early start or late finish. Under-16s need an adult with them throughout, and the mat rule includes a stated exception for pleasure anglers using a seat box. If a larger platform matters, ask specifically about Reed Pool rather than assuming every peg will suit. That’s the sensible way to pick your water here: match the visit to the published details, then check anything still unclear.
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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Hallcroft Fishery FAQs
Where is Hallcroft Fishery?
Hallcroft Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7RA. Any approximate fishery map pin should not be treated as a verified entrance.
Do the tackle-shop hours tell me when I can fish?
No. The published hours are for the shop; separate current fishing-gate and seasonal hours haven’t been confirmed. The park being open all year doesn’t establish year-round access to every water.
Is night fishing allowed?
Check directly before planning an overnight session. An older third-party listing prohibits it, but the current official rules page doesn’t confirm the position.
What fish are advertised at Hallcroft?
The lakes collectively are listed with common and mirror carp, bream, tench, perch and roach. The River Idle stretch is listed with pike, barbel and chub; individual lake stocking breakdowns aren’t supplied.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's onsite tackle shop on site, so you can grab bits on the day. For anything bigger, stock up before you leave home — or order online in advance.
Do I need to bring food?
We haven't seen any food on site, so bring your own grub and drinks. A flask and a stove (where allowed) make a long day much better.
Are there toilets on site?
Not that we've seen listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off. Bring a barrow in case it's a walk.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
DN22 7RA.
How much is a ticket?
Adult pleasure-fishing day ticket: £7 for one rod or £9 for two rods, per person.; Adult evening ticket, starting at 3pm: £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Concession day ticket: £6 for one rod or £8 for two rods, per person.; Concession evening ticket from 3pm: £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Junior day ticket: £5 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods, per person.; Junior evening ticket from 3pm: £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.. Prices last checked 2026-10-03 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Moat Pool, Bridge Pool, Croft Pool, River Ponds, Reed Pool, Canal Pool. Busy weekends can fill up, so ring ahead if you've got your heart set on a swim.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find carp. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
6 — Moat Pool (Not published), Bridge Pool (Not published), Croft Pool (Not published), River Ponds (Not published), Reed Pool (Not published), Canal Pool (Not published).
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 — Only barbless hooks are permitted, with size 12 the maximum.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Yes, it's required — Anglers must carry and use an unhooking mat; there is a stated unhooking exception for pleasure anglers using a seat box. Check the exception before relying on it.
Is it suitable for disabled anglers?
The fishery lists some larger platforms on reed pool for elderly or disabled anglers. Ring ahead to check which swims suit you.
Do I need a rod licence?
Yes — anyone 13 or over fishing in England and Wales needs an Environment Agency rod licence (or Natural Resources Wales in Wales), on top of your fishery ticket.
When's the best time of year to fish here?
Late spring through autumn is prime for most species. Check our live weather edge for this venue before you go — it updates daily.
Day ticket · turn up
Moat Pool: the biggest published peg count of the named pools
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Moat Pool is listed with 190 pegs. That’s a substantial peg count, though it doesn’t tell you the acreage or how much room you’ll have at a particular swim.
It’s part of Hallcroft’s mixed-coarse setup, but a pool-specific stock breakdown isn’t supplied. Check availability before setting your heart on a peg.
Lake photographs
A look around Moat Pool
Hallcroft Fishery
Moat Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Moat Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers interested in a pool with a substantial peg count
- Day-ticket visitors comparing Hallcroft’s lake options
Maybe not for
- Anyone specifically after a small, few-peg pool
- Anglers needing confirmed pool-specific stock details
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Moat Pool
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.
Moat Pool FAQs
How many pegs does Moat Pool have?
It’s listed with 190 pegs.
How big is Moat Pool?
Its acreage isn’t published in the checked details. The park’s over-60-acre figure is for the whole site.
What's the lake record on Moat Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Moat Pool that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Moat Pool?
carp.
Which baits work well on Moat Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Moat Pool further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Moat Pool get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Moat Pool?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Hallcroft Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Moat Pool?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Moat Pool on a day ticket?
Yes — Moat Pool is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult pleasure-fishing day ticket £7 for one rod or £9 for two rods, per person.; Adult evening ticket, starting at 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Concession day ticket £6 for one rod or £8 for two rods, per person.; Concession evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Junior day ticket £5 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods, per person.; Junior evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Moat Pool?
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 Moat Pool suit?
Good for: Anglers interested in a pool with a substantial peg count; Day-ticket visitors comparing Hallcroft’s lake options. Less suited to: Anyone specifically after a small, few-peg pool; Anglers needing confirmed pool-specific stock details.
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
Bridge Pool: an 84-peg option in the hallcroft lineup
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Bridge Pool is listed with 84 pegs. If you’ve seen 80 elsewhere, that figure appears in older directories.
There’s no checked detail on depths, individual features or species split for this pool. Keep your plans flexible rather than arriving with a nailed-on swim in mind.
Lake photographs
A look around Bridge Pool
Hallcroft Fishery
Bridge Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Bridge Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Visitors looking beyond Moat Pool
- Anglers comfortable choosing a swim after checking availability
Maybe not for
- Anyone needing detailed swim and depth information beforehand
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Bridge Pool
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.
Bridge Pool FAQs
Does Bridge Pool have 80 or 84 pegs?
The newer listing gives 84; older directories give 80.
Are Bridge Pool’s individual stocks confirmed?
No pool-specific breakdown is supplied; the mixed-coarse species list covers Hallcroft’s lakes collectively.
What's the lake record on Bridge Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Bridge Pool that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Bridge Pool?
carp.
How big is Bridge Pool and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. An 84-peg option in the Hallcroft lineup.
Which baits work well on Bridge Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Bridge Pool further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Bridge Pool get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Bridge Pool?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Hallcroft Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Bridge Pool?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Bridge Pool on a day ticket?
Yes — Bridge Pool is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult pleasure-fishing day ticket £7 for one rod or £9 for two rods, per person.; Adult evening ticket, starting at 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Concession day ticket £6 for one rod or £8 for two rods, per person.; Concession evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Junior day ticket £5 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods, per person.; Junior evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Bridge Pool?
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 Bridge Pool suit?
Good for: Visitors looking beyond Moat Pool; Anglers comfortable choosing a swim after checking availability. Less suited to: Anyone needing detailed swim and depth information beforehand.
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
Croft Pool: a lower peg count than moat or bridge
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Croft Pool is listed with 28 pegs, putting it below Moat and Bridge on published peg count. That’s a useful distinction, not a measurement of the water itself.
The checked details don’t describe its features or give separate stocking information. Ask about current availability when choosing where to settle in.
Lake photographs
A look around Croft Pool
Hallcroft Fishery
Croft Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Croft Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers wanting fewer listed pegs than Moat or Bridge
- Day-ticket visitors weighing up different pools
Maybe not for
- Anyone relying on a confirmed pool-specific species list
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Croft Pool
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.
Croft Pool FAQs
How many pegs are on Croft Pool?
Croft Pool is listed with 28 pegs.
Is Croft Pool pleasure fishing only?
That restriction is confirmed for River Ponds, not Croft Pool. Check Croft’s availability directly.
What's the lake record on Croft Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Croft Pool that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Croft Pool?
carp.
How big is Croft Pool and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A lower peg count than Moat or Bridge.
Which baits work well on Croft Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Croft Pool further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Croft Pool get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Croft Pool?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Hallcroft Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Croft Pool?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Croft Pool on a day ticket?
Yes — Croft Pool is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult pleasure-fishing day ticket £7 for one rod or £9 for two rods, per person.; Adult evening ticket, starting at 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Concession day ticket £6 for one rod or £8 for two rods, per person.; Concession evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Junior day ticket £5 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods, per person.; Junior evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Croft Pool?
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 Croft Pool suit?
Good for: Anglers wanting fewer listed pegs than Moat or Bridge; Day-ticket visitors weighing up different pools. Less suited to: Anyone relying on a confirmed pool-specific species list.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
River Ponds: the clearly identified pleasure-only option
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
River Ponds are listed with 28 pegs and pleasure fishing only. That makes them a straightforward name to ask about if you’re coming for a pleasure session.
Don’t confuse River Ponds with the separate River Idle stretch. The pike, barbel and chub listing belongs to the river, not these ponds.
Lake photographs
A look around River Ponds
Hallcroft Fishery
River Ponds
We’re checking the fishery’s River Ponds pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Pleasure anglers
- Visitors wanting a clearly identified pleasure-only water
Maybe not for
- Anglers seeking a match water
- Visitors expecting the River Idle’s advertised species
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish River Ponds
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.
chub
Bread or worm tight to cover for chub
Chub sit under overhanging trees and snags and are cautious, so a quiet approach and a natural bait near cover catches them.
- Bread flake or lobworm on a size 8 hook with a link leger.
- Keep low and quiet on the bank.
- In summer, try a free-lined slug or floating crust.
River Ponds FAQs
Are River Ponds pleasure fishing only?
Yes, they’re specifically listed as pleasure fishing only.
Are these the River Idle stretch?
No. River Ponds and the advertised River Idle fishing are separate options.
What's the lake record on River Ponds?
The fishery hasn't published a record for River Ponds 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 River Ponds?
carp.
How big is River Ponds and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The clearly identified pleasure-only option.
Which baits work well on River Ponds?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for River Ponds 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 River Ponds get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on River Ponds?
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 Hallcroft Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on River Ponds?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish River Ponds on a day ticket?
Yes — River Ponds is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult pleasure-fishing day ticket £7 for one rod or £9 for two rods, per person.; Adult evening ticket, starting at 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Concession day ticket £6 for one rod or £8 for two rods, per person.; Concession evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Junior day ticket £5 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods, per person.; Junior evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on River Ponds?
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 River Ponds suit?
Good for: Pleasure anglers; Visitors wanting a clearly identified pleasure-only water. Less suited to: Anglers seeking a match water; Visitors expecting the River Idle’s advertised species.
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
Reed Pool: larger platforms on some pegs
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Reed Pool has some larger platforms intended for elderly or disabled anglers. That’s a useful feature to ask about when a standard platform might not suit.
Only some platforms are described this way. The checked details don’t establish step-free routes, parking distances or suitability for every mobility need, so have a chat before travelling.
Lake photographs
A look around Reed Pool
Hallcroft Fishery
Reed Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Reed Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Elderly anglers looking for a larger platform
- Disabled anglers checking platform suitability in advance
Maybe not for
- Anyone needing guaranteed access arrangements without checking first
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Reed Pool
carp
Light baiting tight to the reed lines
Carp patrol the reed lines on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
carp
Solid PVA bag over the snaggy bits
With the reed lines 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.
Reed Pool FAQs
Does Reed Pool have larger platforms?
Yes, some are intended for elderly or disabled anglers.
Is the whole pool confirmed as fully accessible?
No. The larger platforms are confirmed, but routes and individual access requirements need checking.
What's the lake record on Reed Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Reed Pool that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Reed Pool?
carp.
How big is Reed Pool and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Larger platforms on some pegs.
Which baits work well on Reed Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Reed Pool further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Reed Pool get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Reed Pool?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Hallcroft Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Reed Pool?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Reed Pool on a day ticket?
Yes — Reed Pool is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult pleasure-fishing day ticket £7 for one rod or £9 for two rods, per person.; Adult evening ticket, starting at 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Concession day ticket £6 for one rod or £8 for two rods, per person.; Concession evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Junior day ticket £5 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods, per person.; Junior evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Reed Pool?
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 Reed Pool suit?
Good for: Elderly anglers looking for a larger platform; Disabled anglers checking platform suitability in advance. Less suited to: Anyone needing guaranteed access arrangements without checking first.
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
Canal Pool: a narrow-format pool, around 11–12 metres wide
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Canal Pool is described as approximately 11–12 metres wide. That gives pole anglers something useful to work with when thinking about tackle, without guessing at depths or far-bank features.
Hallcroft’s pole limit is 14.5 metres, and the same hook and line restrictions need attention. The published width isn’t a promise that every swim has identical dimensions.
Lake photographs
A look around Canal Pool
Hallcroft Fishery
Canal Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Canal Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Pole anglers interested in a narrow-format water
- Visitors who find a published width useful for planning
Maybe not for
- Anglers specifically seeking broad, open-water fishing
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Canal Pool
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.
Canal Pool FAQs
How wide is Canal Pool?
It’s described as approximately 11–12 metres wide.
What’s the pole-length limit?
Poles must not exceed 14.5 metres.
What's the lake record on Canal Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Canal Pool that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Canal Pool?
carp.
How big is Canal Pool and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A narrow-format pool, around 11–12 metres wide.
Which baits work well on Canal Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Canal Pool further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Canal Pool get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Canal Pool?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Hallcroft Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Canal Pool?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Canal Pool on a day ticket?
Yes — Canal Pool is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult pleasure-fishing day ticket £7 for one rod or £9 for two rods, per person.; Adult evening ticket, starting at 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Concession day ticket £6 for one rod or £8 for two rods, per person.; Concession evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods.; Junior day ticket £5 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods, per person.; Junior evening ticket from 3pm £4.50 for one rod or £6.50 for two rods. (last checked 2026-10-03).
Is night fishing allowed on Canal Pool?
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 Canal Pool suit?
Good for: Pole anglers interested in a narrow-format water; Visitors who find a published width useful for planning. Less suited to: Anglers specifically seeking broad, open-water fishing.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- Must
Must under-16s be accompanied?
Under-16s must always be accompanied by an adult.
- Must
Are barbless hooks compulsory?
Only barbless hooks are permitted, with size 12 the maximum.
- Must
Is there a minimum hooklength?
Hooklengths must be at least four inches.
- Must
Is pole length restricted?
Poles must not exceed 14.5 metres.
- Must
Do I need an unhooking mat?
Anglers must carry and use an unhooking mat; there is a stated unhooking exception for pleasure anglers using a seat box. Check the exception before relying on it.
- No
Can I use floating or seafood baits?
Floating baits and seafood baits are prohibited.
- No
Can I use braid or hybrid lines?
Only single-strand nylon monofilament is allowed.
- Must
Must feeders and bombs be free-running?
Feeders and bombs must be free-running; in-line feeders are permitted.
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.
Moat Pool
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.
Bridge Pool
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.
Croft Pool
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.
River Ponds
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.
chub
Bread or worm tight to cover for chub
Chub sit under overhanging trees and snags and are cautious, so a quiet approach and a natural bait near cover catches them.
- Bread flake or lobworm on a size 8 hook with a link leger.
- Keep low and quiet on the bank.
- In summer, try a free-lined slug or floating crust.
Reed Pool
carp
Light baiting tight to the reed lines
Carp patrol the reed lines on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
carp
Solid PVA bag over the snaggy bits
With the reed lines 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.
Canal Pool
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
7.5/10 from Tackle Index: Six lakes, mixed-coarse stocks and an advertised river stretch give plenty of fishing appeal, without claiming anything about catch rates.
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 — “Hallcroft is a proper mixed-coarse option in Retford, with six lakes, a stretch of the River Idle and plenty of pegs. There’s room for pleasure fishing alongside the match-lake setup, including pleasure-only River Ponds.”
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 Hallcroft Fishery
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