Fishery guide · Somerset
Summerhayes Fisheries
Summerhayes Fisheries near Bridgwater is a cracking five-lake complex, with approachable mixed-coarse waters, match lakes and a proper Big 8 specimen option. Open dawn till dusk every day, with night fishing available on Big 8 by booking.
“8.3/10 — Five lakes cover mixed coarse, match, junior and proper specimen carp fishing.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Summerhayes Fisheries sits at Somerset Bridge, near Bridgwater, across roughly 24 acres of Somerset countryside. It’s also a registered county wildlife site, so there’s a bit more going on than just pegs and puddles.
- 5 lakes: Sellick’s Pond, Long’s Match Lake, Little 8, Big 8, Denny’s Pond
- Fish: carp, bream, crucian, tench, perch, roach, rudd
- Tickets from: Day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s — £11
- Find it: Bridgwater · TA6 6LW
Plan your session
Fishery map of Summerhayes Fisheries
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
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Summerhayes Fisheries
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The full rundown on Summerhayes Fisheries
Summerhayes Fisheries sits at Somerset Bridge, near Bridgwater, across roughly 24 acres of Somerset countryside. It’s also a registered county wildlife site, so there’s a bit more going on than just pegs and puddles.
There are five maintained lakes: Sellick’s Pond, Long’s Match Lake, Little 8, Big 8 and Denny’s. That gives you a decent spread, from easy-going silver-fish and mixed-coarse fishing through to high-double and 30lb-plus carp water.
Sellick’s is the most rounded option for a relaxed day. It has 23 pegs, averages about 5ft deep and holds carp to around 10lb, with some doubles, plus bream, crucians and tench. A proper mixed bag could be on the cards, especially with the margins in play.
Long’s Match Lake is the bigger match-style option, with 40 pegs and carp into double figures alongside decent bream. Matches run every Sunday, normally alternating between Long’s and Sellick’s, with the draw at 08:30 and fishing usually from 10:00 to 16:00.
Little 8 has 14 swims and contains carp, silver fish and some good-sized perch. It sounds bob on for anglers who fancy a bit of variety rather than sitting it out solely for a lump. Denny’s is aimed at junior anglers, with five swims holding small carp and silver fish; families can assist.
Then there’s Big 8 — the largest pond at about 3.5 acres, with 10 well-spaced swims. It’s the specimen lake, stocked with high-double carp, around 50 carp over 20lb and fish over 30lb. Moley, a known mirror, weighed 35lb 11oz when caught in 2018. Big 8 day anglers must leave by 6pm, while nights and 24-hour sessions need booking.
Facilities are handy, with an onsite bait and tackle shop, hot food, drinks, toilets and separate male and female showers. Most swims are described as disabled friendly, with accessible parking near designated easy-access swims. Fishing is cash only, and the rules are properly clear: barbless hooks, no unattended rods, no peanuts or tiger nuts, and fish over 5lb must not go in keep nets.
For value, the standard day ticket is £11, while Big 8 costs £17.50 for up to three rods. There are concessions, season tickets and evening options too. Night fishing is limited to 10 people, and bookings guarantee a place rather than a particular swim. A solid all-rounder, with enough variety to suit a quick session, a Sunday match or a proper crack at a Somerset carp.
Straight from anglers online
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Summerhayes Fisheries FAQs
Where is Summerhayes Fisheries?
It is at Somerset Bridge near Bridgwater, Somerset.
What are the opening hours?
The fishery is open every day of the year from dawn until dusk.
Is fishing cash only?
Yes. Fishing and onsite purchases are cash only.
Can I book a specific swim for a night session?
Night bookings guarantee fishing but not a specific swim.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's onsite bait and 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 hot and cold drinks, snacks and cooked breakfasts 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 toilets.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
Yes — wheelchair-accessible parking near designated easy-access swims. Walks to the further pegs can be a trek, so a barrow helps.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
TA6 6LW.
How much is a ticket?
Day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s: £11; Concession day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s: £10; Second rod on Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s: £2; Big 8 day fishing, up to three rods: £17.50; Big 8 night fishing, maximum 10 people: £20; Big 8 day-and-night fishing: £27.50; Evening ticket after 5pm: £7, or £11 on Big 8; Season ticket, one year from purchase: £130, or £120 for concessions; Reduced Big 8 night rate for season-ticket holders: £17.50; Open-match entry, including Golden Peg and Champion of Champions: £24; Keep-net hire: £2; Rod hire: £10; Showers: £5. Prices last checked 2026-10-06 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Sellick’s Pond, Long’s Match Lake, Little 8, Denny’s 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, bream, crucian, tench, perch, roach, rudd. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
5 — Sellick’s Pond (Not published), Long’s Match Lake (Not published), Little 8 (Not published), Big 8 (Approximately 3.5 acres), Denny’s Pond (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
Yes, it's required — Night fishing should be booked in advance by calling the fishery or messaging the fishery on Facebook.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes — Dogs must be kept on a lead and fouling must be cleared.
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.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Bring one either way — most fisheries expect it and the fish deserve it.
Is it suitable for disabled anglers?
The fishery lists most swims described as disabled friendly. 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
Sellick’s Pond: a tidy mixed-coarse pond with 23 pegs and a bit of everything.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, crucian, tench
Sellick’s Pond is approximately 5ft deep and has 23 pegs. It holds carp to about 10lb, with some doubles, plus bream to around 5lb.
There are also crucian carp to about 2.5lb and tench to around 4lb, making this a useful choice when you fancy a varied session rather than a one-species slog.
Lake photographs
A look around Sellick’s Pond
Summerhayes Fisheries
Sellick’s Pond
We’re checking the fishery’s Sellick’s Pond pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Mixed-coarse anglers after carp, bream, tench and crucians
- Sunday match anglers and straightforward day-ticket sessions
Maybe not for
- Anglers specifically targeting the bigger carp found in Big 8
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Sellick’s Pond
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
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.
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.
Sellick’s Pond FAQs
How many pegs does Sellick’s Pond have?
Sellick’s Pond has 23 pegs.
How deep is Sellick’s Pond?
It is approximately 5 feet deep.
What's the lake record on Sellick’s Pond?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Sellick’s 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 Sellick’s Pond?
carp, bream, crucian, tench.
How big is Sellick’s Pond and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A tidy mixed-coarse pond with 23 pegs and a bit of everything..
Which baits work well on Sellick’s Pond?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Sellick’s 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 Sellick’s 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 Sellick’s 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 Summerhayes Fisheries before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Sellick’s 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 Sellick’s Pond on a day ticket?
Yes — Sellick’s Pond is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £11; Concession day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £10; Second rod on Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £2; Big 8 day fishing, up to three rods £17.50; Big 8 night fishing, maximum 10 people £20; Big 8 day-and-night fishing £27.50; Evening ticket after 5pm £7, or £11 on Big 8; Season ticket, one year from purchase £130, or £120 for concessions; Reduced Big 8 night rate for season-ticket holders £17.50; Open-match entry, including Golden Peg and Champion of Champions £24; Keep-net hire £2; Rod hire £10; Showers £5 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Sellick’s Pond?
Yes, it's required — Night fishing should be booked in advance by calling the fishery or messaging the fishery on Facebook.
Who does Sellick’s Pond suit?
Good for: Mixed-coarse anglers after carp, bream, tench and crucians; Sunday match anglers and straightforward day-ticket sessions. Less suited to: Anglers specifically targeting the bigger carp found in Big 8.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
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Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Long’s Match Lake: the larger match-style lake, with 40 pegs and double-figure carp.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream
Long’s Match Lake has 40 pegs and holds carp into double figures alongside decent-sized bream.
It’s one of the regular Sunday match venues, alternating with Sellick’s, so it suits anglers who like a bit of competition or a roomy match-lake layout.
Lake photographs
A look around Long’s Match Lake
Summerhayes Fisheries
Long’s Match Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Long’s Match Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Match anglers
- Day-ticket anglers after carp and bream
Maybe not for
- Those wanting a quiet specimen-carp session with only a handful of swims
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Long’s Match 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.
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.
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.
Long’s Match Lake FAQs
How many pegs are on Long’s Match Lake?
Long’s Match Lake has 40 pegs.
Does Long’s hold bream?
Yes, it holds decent-sized bream as well as carp into double figures.
What's the lake record on Long’s Match Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Long’s Match 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 Long’s Match Lake?
carp, bream.
How big is Long’s Match Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The larger match-style lake, with 40 pegs and double-figure carp..
Which baits work well on Long’s Match Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Long’s Match Lake further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Long’s Match Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Long’s Match Lake?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Summerhayes Fisheries before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Long’s Match Lake?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Long’s Match Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Long’s Match Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £11; Concession day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £10; Second rod on Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £2; Big 8 day fishing, up to three rods £17.50; Big 8 night fishing, maximum 10 people £20; Big 8 day-and-night fishing £27.50; Evening ticket after 5pm £7, or £11 on Big 8; Season ticket, one year from purchase £130, or £120 for concessions; Reduced Big 8 night rate for season-ticket holders £17.50; Open-match entry, including Golden Peg and Champion of Champions £24; Keep-net hire £2; Rod hire £10; Showers £5 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Long’s Match Lake?
Yes, it's required — Night fishing should be booked in advance by calling the fishery or messaging the fishery on Facebook.
Who does Long’s Match Lake suit?
Good for: Match anglers; Day-ticket anglers after carp and bream. Less suited to: Those wanting a quiet specimen-carp session with only a handful of 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
Little 8: a compact 14-swim lake with carp, silver fish and some good perch.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, perch, roach, rudd
Little 8 has 14 swims and contains carp, silver fish and some good-sized perch.
It’s a nice fit for anglers who want variety and the chance of a cheeky perch, rather than focusing solely on specimen carp.
Lake photographs
A look around Little 8
Summerhayes Fisheries
Little 8
We’re checking the fishery’s Little 8 pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Mixed anglers who like changing tactics
- Perch and silver-fish anglers
Maybe not for
- Anglers after published high-double or 20lb-plus carp
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Little 8
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.
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.
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.
Little 8 FAQs
How many swims does Little 8 have?
Little 8 has 14 swims.
What fish are in Little 8?
It contains carp, silver fish and some good-sized perch.
What's the lake record on Little 8?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Little 8 that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
How big is Little 8 and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A compact 14-swim lake with carp, silver fish and some good perch..
Which baits work well on Little 8?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Little 8 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 Little 8 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 Little 8?
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 Summerhayes Fisheries before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Little 8?
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 Little 8 on a day ticket?
Yes — Little 8 is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £11; Concession day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £10; Second rod on Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £2; Big 8 day fishing, up to three rods £17.50; Big 8 night fishing, maximum 10 people £20; Big 8 day-and-night fishing £27.50; Evening ticket after 5pm £7, or £11 on Big 8; Season ticket, one year from purchase £130, or £120 for concessions; Reduced Big 8 night rate for season-ticket holders £17.50; Open-match entry, including Golden Peg and Champion of Champions £24; Keep-net hire £2; Rod hire £10; Showers £5 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Little 8?
Yes, it's required — Night fishing should be booked in advance by calling the fishery or messaging the fishery on Facebook.
Who does Little 8 suit?
Good for: Mixed anglers who like changing tactics; Perch and silver-fish anglers. Less suited to: Anglers after published high-double or 20lb-plus 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
Pre-book only
Big 8: the proper specimen lake, with around 50 carp over 20lb and fish beyond 30lb.
- Size
- Approximately 3.5 acres acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Big 8 is the largest pond at approximately 3.5 acres, with 10 well-spaced swims. It’s the venue’s specimen lake and the one for anglers chasing a serious lump.
The fishery says it holds high-double carp, around fifty carp over 20lb and fish over 30lb. The mirror known as Moley weighed 35lb 11oz when caught in 2018. Day, night and day-and-night options are available, with night fishing booked in advance.
Big 8 is stocked with high-double carp, around fifty carp over 20lb and fish over 30lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Big 8
Summerhayes Fisheries
Big 8
We’re checking the fishery’s Big 8 pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp anglers targeting high doubles and bigger fish
- Anglers wanting a booked night or 24-hour session
Maybe not for
- Casual mixed-coarse anglers after silver fish and a quick bite
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Big 8
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.
Big 8 FAQs
How many swims does Big 8 have?
Big 8 has 10 well-spaced swims.
Can I night fish Big 8?
Yes, night fishing is available, but it must be booked in advance and is limited to 10 people.
What's the lake record on Big 8?
Going by what the fishery says: Big 8 is stocked with high-double carp, around fifty carp over 20lb and fish over 30lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Big 8?
carp. Big 8 is stocked with high-double carp, around fifty carp over 20lb and fish over 30lb.
How big is Big 8 and how many swims?
Around Approximately 3.5 acres acres. The proper specimen lake, with around 50 carp over 20lb and fish beyond 30lb..
Which baits work well on Big 8?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Big 8 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 Big 8 get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Big 8?
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 Summerhayes Fisheries before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Big 8?
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 Big 8 on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Big 8 in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Big 8?
Yes, it's required — Night fishing should be booked in advance by calling the fishery or messaging the fishery on Facebook.
Who does Big 8 suit?
Good for: Carp anglers targeting high doubles and bigger fish; Anglers wanting a booked night or 24-hour session. Less suited to: Casual mixed-coarse anglers after silver fish and a quick bite.
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
Denny’s Pond: a junior-friendly pond with five swims, small carp and silver fish.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, roach, rudd
Denny’s Pond is aimed at junior anglers, although families may assist. It has five swims and contains small carp and silver fish.
It’s a sensible starting point for younger anglers, with day tickets available alongside the other non-Big 8 waters.
Lake photographs
A look around Denny’s Pond
Summerhayes Fisheries
Denny’s Pond
We’re checking the fishery’s Denny’s Pond pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Junior anglers
- Families helping youngsters get into fishing
Maybe not for
- Specimen anglers after large carp
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Denny’s Pond
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.
Denny’s Pond FAQs
Who is Denny’s Pond for?
Denny’s Pond is for junior anglers, although families may assist.
How many swims does it have?
Denny’s Pond has five swims.
What's the lake record on Denny’s Pond?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Denny’s 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 Denny’s Pond?
carp, roach, rudd.
How big is Denny’s Pond and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A junior-friendly pond with five swims, small carp and silver fish..
Which baits work well on Denny’s Pond?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Denny’s 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 Denny’s 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 Denny’s 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 Summerhayes Fisheries before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Denny’s 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 Denny’s Pond on a day ticket?
Yes — Denny’s Pond is on the day ticket. Tickets: Day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £11; Concession day ticket: Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £10; Second rod on Sellick’s, Long’s and Denny’s £2; Big 8 day fishing, up to three rods £17.50; Big 8 night fishing, maximum 10 people £20; Big 8 day-and-night fishing £27.50; Evening ticket after 5pm £7, or £11 on Big 8; Season ticket, one year from purchase £130, or £120 for concessions; Reduced Big 8 night rate for season-ticket holders £17.50; Open-match entry, including Golden Peg and Champion of Champions £24; Keep-net hire £2; Rod hire £10; Showers £5 (last checked 2026-10-06).
Is night fishing allowed on Denny’s Pond?
Yes, it's required — Night fishing should be booked in advance by calling the fishery or messaging the fishery on Facebook.
Who does Denny’s Pond suit?
Good for: Junior anglers; Families helping youngsters get into fishing. Less suited to: Specimen anglers after large carp.
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
- Must
Are barbless hooks required?
Only barbless hooks are permitted.
- No
Can rods be left unattended?
Rods must not be left unattended.
- No
Can fish over 5lb be kept in keep nets?
Fish over 5lb must not be kept in keep nets.
- No
Are peanuts and tiger nuts allowed?
Peanuts and tiger nuts are prohibited.
- Must
Is a rod licence required?
Anglers must hold a valid rod licence.
- No
Can children under 14 fish alone?
Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Yes
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs must be kept on a lead and fouling must be cleared.
- Must
Is night fishing bookable?
Night fishing should be booked in advance by calling the fishery or messaging the fishery on Facebook.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 6 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.
Sellick’s Pond
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
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.
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.
Long’s Match 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.
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.
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.
Little 8
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.
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.
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.
Big 8
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.
Denny’s Pond
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.
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
8.3/10 from Tackle Index: Five lakes cover mixed coarse, match, junior and proper specimen carp fishing.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
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Our take on the feedback
Our read
Checked Sept '26 — “Summerhayes Fisheries near Bridgwater is a cracking five-lake complex, with approachable mixed-coarse waters, match lakes and a proper Big 8 specimen option. Open dawn till dusk every day, with night fishing available on Big 8 by booking.”
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
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