Fishery guide · Surrey
Willinghurst Fishery
Willinghurst has a proper spread of carp, mixed coarse and match fishing, with 12 lakes listed and Main Lake carp advertised to 40lb. Turn up and buy your ticket onsite, but check which lake fits your plans before loading the car.
“7.3/10 — Advertised specimen carp, reported big perch and mixed coarse options give anglers plenty to aim at, without guaranteeing catches.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Willinghurst is a family-run estate with a proper spread of fishing rather than one lake trying to please everyone. The official website lists 12 lakes, covering specimen carp, mixed coarse and match options. The estate itself covers 600 acres, but don't mistake that for the amount of water: individual lake sizes aren't published. For the sat-nav, the address is Guildford Road, Shamley Green, Surrey, GU5 0SQ.
- 8 lakes: Main Lake, Christmas Tree, Pittance, Oak Tree, Cherry Tree, Top, Old, New
- Fish: carp, perch, crucian
- Tickets from: Adult day — £15/one rod; £25/two.
- Find it: Cranleigh · GU5 0SQ
Plan your session
Fishery map of Willinghurst Fishery
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
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
Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Shazz. See the originals. Catch dates not confirmed.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Willinghurst Fishery
Willinghurst is a family-run estate with a proper spread of fishing rather than one lake trying to please everyone. The official website lists 12 lakes, covering specimen carp, mixed coarse and match options. The estate itself covers 600 acres, but don't mistake that for the amount of water: individual lake sizes aren't published. For the sat-nav, the address is Guildford Road, Shamley Green, Surrey, GU5 0SQ. Mapped fishing coordinates identify the fishing area, not an entrance, so don't blindly follow a pin.
If carp are your thing, Main Lake is the headline draw, with fish advertised to 40lb. Christmas Tree is also described as a specimen carp lake, while Horseshoe lists carp to 30lb. That's enough to get the PB thoughts going, but advertised sizes aren't a promise of a lump on your next trip. Carp mats or cradles are required on all three, so get the fish-care kit sorted before you leave. Night fishing is available through the venue's 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
There's plenty here for anglers who would rather watch a float than sit behind carp rods, too. Bream, tench, roach and perch are listed across the fishery, though that doesn't mean every species is in every lake. Cherry Tree stands out for reported perch exceeding 5lb, and New is specifically listed with crucians and F1s. Those are useful starting points when choosing your water. What isn't published here is a reliable breakdown of depths, margins or productive pegs, so there's no pretending we know where to get clipped up.
The match side has some useful detail. Pittance accommodates 18 anglers, Top 24, Old 25 and New 20, while John's Match Lake accommodates 45. Those figures help you judge the scale of a possible club outing, but they don't tell you whether a particular date or peg is available. Match rules specify barbless hooks and no floating baits. Oak Tree is described simply as bank fishing. Half Moon is listed closed, and S. Stock Lake is also named, without enough detail here to build a fishing plan around it.
Getting a ticket is straightforward: turn up and purchase onsite. Day, evening and 24-hour options are listed, alongside junior and concession tickets. Gate times differ between Main and Christmas Tree and the other described open lakes, so don't assume one timetable covers the lot. A directory also describes year-round opening with daylight-dependent seasonal hours. A quick call before travelling is sensible, especially for an evening visit or an overnight session where access arrangements matter.
For the practical bits, a café, parking and toilets are listed. Dogs must stay on a lead. We haven't fished here, so this isn't a bankside verdict on the swims or how readily the fish feed. On the published detail, though, the appeal is clear: several distinct fishing options without needing to commit to a syndicate. For lake availability and anything not spelled out, fishing enquiries go to the fishery, between 08:00 and 18:00. A quick chat could save a fair bit of faff.
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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Willinghurst Fishery FAQs
Where is Willinghurst Fishery?
The address is Guildford Road, Shamley Green, Surrey, GU5 0SQ. Mapped fishing coordinates identify the fishing area rather than an entrance.
Do I need to book before visiting?
The published arrangement is to turn up and buy tickets onsite. For a club match or specific lake availability, call the fishery during the enquiry hours of 08:00–18:00.
Are all 12 listed lakes open?
Don't assume so: Half Moon is listed closed. The eight lake profiles here aren't the whole list; John's Match Lake, Horseshoe, Half Moon and S. Stock Lake are also named.
Is it open all year?
A directory reports year-round opening with daylight-dependent seasonal hours. Published gate times also differ by lake, so confirm before travelling.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
We haven't found a tackle shop on site at Willinghurst Fishery. Sort your bait and end tackle before you travel, as there's no guarantee of anything close by near Cranleigh.
Do I need to bring food?
There's café 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 — parking. Walks to the further pegs can be a trek, so a barrow helps.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
GU5 0SQ.
How much is a ticket?
Adult day: £15/one rod; £25/two.; Adult 24-hour: £30/two rods; £35/three.; Junior/concession day: £10/one rod; £15/two.; Junior/concession 24-hour: £25/two rods.; Evening after 16:00: £10.; Spectator: £5; Keepnets: £5; Fly-fishing: £15.. Prices last checked 2026-10-02 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Main Lake, Christmas Tree, Pittance, Oak Tree, Cherry Tree, Top, Old, New. 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, perch, crucian. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
8 — Main Lake (Not published), Christmas Tree (Not published), Pittance (Not published), Oak Tree (Not published), Cherry Tree (Not published), Top (Not published), Old (Not published), New (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
Yes — Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, it's required — Dogs must remain leashed.
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 — The published match rules require barbless hooks.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Yes, it's required — Required on Main, Christmas Tree and Horseshoe.
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
Main Lake: the headline carp option
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Main Lake is the obvious starting point if bigger carp are the brief. Willinghurst advertises fish to 40lb here — a proper draw, though not a promise of an easy PB.
Bring a carp mat or cradle: it's required. Main shares the later listed gate closing time with Christmas Tree, but check overnight access arrangements if you're planning a 24-hour session.
Carp to 40lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Main Lake
Willinghurst Fishery
Main Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Main Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers targeting specimen carp
- Carp anglers weighing up a PB venue
Maybe not for
- Anyone arriving without a carp mat or cradle
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Main 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.
Main Lake FAQs
How big are the carp?
The fishery advertises carp to 40lb in Main Lake.
Do I need a mat?
Yes. A carp mat or cradle is required.
What's the lake record on Main Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Carp to 40lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Main Lake?
carp. Carp to 40lb.
How big is Main Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The headline carp option.
Which baits work well on Main Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Main Lake further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Main 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 Main 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 Willinghurst Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Main 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 Main Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Main Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day £15/one rod; £25/two.; Adult 24-hour £30/two rods; £35/three.; Junior/concession day £10/one rod; £15/two.; Junior/concession 24-hour £25/two rods.; Evening after 16:00 £10.; Spectator £5; Keepnets £5; Fly-fishing £15. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Main Lake?
Yes — Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
Who does Main Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers targeting specimen carp; Carp anglers weighing up a PB venue. Less suited to: Anyone arriving without a carp mat or cradle.
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
Christmas Tree: another specimen carp option
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Christmas Tree is described as a specimen carp lake. It gives carp anglers another named option alongside Main, without a published fish weight in the supplied detail.
The fish-care requirement is clear: bring a carp mat or cradle. Don't assume Main's advertised carp size applies here just because the two share gate times.
Lake photographs
A look around Christmas Tree
Willinghurst Fishery
Christmas Tree
We’re checking the fishery’s Christmas Tree pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Specimen carp anglers
- Anglers considering an alternative to Main
Maybe not for
- Anyone needing a published maximum carp weight
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Christmas Tree
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.
Christmas Tree FAQs
What sort of fishing is Christmas Tree for?
It's listed as a specimen carp lake.
Is a carp cradle compulsory?
A carp mat or cradle is required; either meets the stated requirement.
What's the lake record on Christmas Tree?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Christmas Tree 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 Christmas Tree?
carp.
How big is Christmas Tree and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Another specimen carp option.
Which baits work well on Christmas Tree?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Christmas Tree 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 Christmas Tree 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 Christmas Tree?
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 Willinghurst Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Christmas Tree?
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 Christmas Tree on a day ticket?
Yes — Christmas Tree is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day £15/one rod; £25/two.; Adult 24-hour £30/two rods; £35/three.; Junior/concession day £10/one rod; £15/two.; Junior/concession 24-hour £25/two rods.; Evening after 16:00 £10.; Spectator £5; Keepnets £5; Fly-fishing £15. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Christmas Tree?
Yes — Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
Who does Christmas Tree suit?
Good for: Specimen carp anglers; Anglers considering an alternative to Main. Less suited to: Anyone needing a published maximum carp weight.
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
Pittance: match space for 18 anglers
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Pittance accommodates 18 match anglers. That's a useful number for a smaller club to have in mind when looking through Willinghurst's match options.
Capacity isn't a booking confirmation, mind. Check availability for your date, and remember the published match rules: barbless hooks and no floating baits.
Lake photographs
A look around Pittance
Willinghurst Fishery
Pittance
We’re checking the fishery’s Pittance pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Match anglers
- Clubs considering an 18-angler outing
Maybe not for
- Matches needing more than 18 places
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Pittance
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
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.
Pittance FAQs
How many match anglers does Pittance accommodate?
The listed capacity is 18 match anglers.
Which species are listed specifically for Pittance?
A lake-specific species list isn't supplied, so check with the fishery rather than assuming the venue-wide list applies.
What's the lake record on Pittance?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Pittance 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 Pittance?
carp.
How big is Pittance and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Match space for 18 anglers.
Which baits work well on Pittance?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Pittance 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 Pittance 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 Pittance?
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 Willinghurst Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Pittance?
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 Pittance on a day ticket?
Yes — Pittance is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day £15/one rod; £25/two.; Adult 24-hour £30/two rods; £35/three.; Junior/concession day £10/one rod; £15/two.; Junior/concession 24-hour £25/two rods.; Evening after 16:00 £10.; Spectator £5; Keepnets £5; Fly-fishing £15. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Pittance?
Yes — Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
Who does Pittance suit?
Good for: Match anglers; Clubs considering an 18-angler outing. Less suited to: Matches needing more than 18 places.
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
Oak Tree: listed for bank fishing
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Oak Tree is described as offering bank fishing. Beyond that, the supplied detail is light, so there's no honest way to pitch it as a particular species hotspot.
If this is the lake you're eyeing up, ask about its fish and current availability before settling on your tackle. Depths, features and peg numbers aren't supplied.
Lake photographs
A look around Oak Tree
Willinghurst Fishery
Oak Tree
We’re checking the fishery’s Oak Tree pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Bank anglers
- Visitors happy to ask for lake-specific advice
Maybe not for
- Anglers needing a detailed species breakdown before choosing
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Oak Tree
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
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.
Oak Tree FAQs
What fishing is described at Oak Tree?
The fishing page describes bank fishing.
How large is Oak Tree?
Its acreage isn't published on the fishing page.
What's the lake record on Oak Tree?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Oak Tree 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 Oak Tree?
carp.
How big is Oak Tree and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Listed for bank fishing.
Which baits work well on Oak Tree?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Oak Tree 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 Oak Tree 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 Oak Tree?
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 Willinghurst Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Oak Tree?
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 Oak Tree on a day ticket?
Yes — Oak Tree is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day £15/one rod; £25/two.; Adult 24-hour £30/two rods; £35/three.; Junior/concession day £10/one rod; £15/two.; Junior/concession 24-hour £25/two rods.; Evening after 16:00 £10.; Spectator £5; Keepnets £5; Fly-fishing £15. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Oak Tree?
Yes — Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
Who does Oak Tree suit?
Good for: Bank anglers; Visitors happy to ask for lake-specific advice. Less suited to: Anglers needing a detailed species breakdown before choosing.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Cherry Tree: big-perch appeal
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- perch
Cherry Tree catches the eye for reported perch exceeding 5lb. If big stripeys are your thing, that's a cracking reason to ask the fishery a few more questions.
Treat that as a reported size, not a prediction for your session. The supplied detail doesn't cover methods, depths or seasonal form, so check permitted approaches before packing specialist perch tackle.
Perch exceeding 5lb reported.
Lake photographs
A look around Cherry Tree
Willinghurst Fishery
Cherry Tree
We’re checking the fishery’s Cherry Tree pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Perch anglers
- Anglers interested in specimen perch
Maybe not for
- Anyone expecting a guaranteed big-perch catch
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Cherry Tree
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.
Cherry Tree FAQs
How big are the reported perch?
Perch exceeding 5lb are reported on the fishing page.
Are particular perch methods confirmed?
No lake-specific method guidance is supplied; ask the fishery before deciding how to target them.
What's the lake record on Cherry Tree?
Going by what the fishery says: Perch exceeding 5lb reported. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Cherry Tree?
perch. Perch exceeding 5lb reported.
How big is Cherry Tree and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Big-perch appeal.
Which baits work well on Cherry Tree?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Cherry Tree 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 Cherry Tree 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 Cherry Tree?
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 Willinghurst Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Cherry Tree?
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 Cherry Tree on a day ticket?
Yes — Cherry Tree is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day £15/one rod; £25/two.; Adult 24-hour £30/two rods; £35/three.; Junior/concession day £10/one rod; £15/two.; Junior/concession 24-hour £25/two rods.; Evening after 16:00 £10.; Spectator £5; Keepnets £5; Fly-fishing £15. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Cherry Tree?
Yes — Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
Who does Cherry Tree suit?
Good for: Perch anglers; Anglers interested in specimen perch. Less suited to: Anyone expecting a guaranteed big-perch catch.
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
Top: a 24-angler match option
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Top accommodates 24 match anglers. It's another option to put on the shortlist when your club needs more places than Pittance provides.
That figure describes capacity, not how many pegs will be free when you arrive. Check match arrangements directly, and keep the barbless-hook and no-floating-bait match rules in mind.
Lake photographs
A look around Top
Willinghurst Fishery
Top
We’re checking the fishery’s Top pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Match anglers
- Clubs considering up to 24 anglers
Maybe not for
- Matches requiring more than 24 places
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Top
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
Top FAQs
What's Top's match capacity?
It accommodates 24 match anglers.
Does that guarantee 24 available pegs?
No. Check availability and match arrangements with the fishery.
What's the lake record on Top?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Top 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 Top?
carp.
How big is Top and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A 24-angler match option.
Which baits work well on Top?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Top 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 Top 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 Top?
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 Willinghurst Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Top?
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 Top on a day ticket?
Yes — Top is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day £15/one rod; £25/two.; Adult 24-hour £30/two rods; £35/three.; Junior/concession day £10/one rod; £15/two.; Junior/concession 24-hour £25/two rods.; Evening after 16:00 £10.; Spectator £5; Keepnets £5; Fly-fishing £15. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Top?
Yes — Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
Who does Top suit?
Good for: Match anglers; Clubs considering up to 24 anglers. Less suited to: Matches requiring more than 24 places.
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
Old: room for 25 match anglers
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Old is listed as accommodating 25 match anglers. That's one more than Top, which may matter when you're trying to fit the whole club in.
There's no lake-specific species or feature breakdown supplied here. Use the capacity to narrow your options, then speak to the fishery about whether it fits the match you're planning.
Lake photographs
A look around Old
Willinghurst Fishery
Old
We’re checking the fishery’s Old pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Match anglers
- Clubs looking for a 25-angler option
Maybe not for
- Matches needing more than 25 places
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Old
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.
Old FAQs
How many match anglers can Old accommodate?
The listed capacity is 25.
Are floating baits allowed in matches?
No. The published match rules prohibit floating baits.
What's the lake record on Old?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Old 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 Old?
carp.
How big is Old and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Room for 25 match anglers.
Which baits work well on Old?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Old 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 Old 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 Old?
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 Willinghurst Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Old?
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 Old on a day ticket?
Yes — Old is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day £15/one rod; £25/two.; Adult 24-hour £30/two rods; £35/three.; Junior/concession day £10/one rod; £15/two.; Junior/concession 24-hour £25/two rods.; Evening after 16:00 £10.; Spectator £5; Keepnets £5; Fly-fishing £15. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Old?
Yes — Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
Who does Old suit?
Good for: Match anglers; Clubs looking for a 25-angler option. Less suited to: Matches needing more than 25 places.
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
New: crucians, f1s and 20 match places
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- crucian
New gives you a little more to go on than capacity alone: crucians and F1s are specifically listed. It accommodates 20 match anglers.
That makes it worth a look if those fish are your sort of fishing. There are no supplied details on depths or productive pegs, though, so don't arrive expecting a ready-made plan for the margins.
Crucians and F1s.
Lake photographs
A look around New
Willinghurst Fishery
New
We’re checking the fishery’s New pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers interested in crucians and F1s
- Clubs considering a 20-angler match
Maybe not for
- Matches needing more than 20 places
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish New
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.
New FAQs
Which fish are specifically listed for New?
Crucians and F1s.
What's the match capacity?
New accommodates 20 match anglers.
What's the lake record on New?
Going by what the fishery says: Crucians and F1s. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in New?
crucian. Crucians and F1s.
How big is New and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Crucians, F1s and 20 match places.
Which baits work well on New?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for New 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 New 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 New?
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 Willinghurst Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on New?
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 New on a day ticket?
Yes — New is on the day ticket. Tickets: Adult day £15/one rod; £25/two.; Adult 24-hour £30/two rods; £35/three.; Junior/concession day £10/one rod; £15/two.; Junior/concession 24-hour £25/two rods.; Evening after 16:00 £10.; Spectator £5; Keepnets £5; Fly-fishing £15. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on New?
Yes — Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
Who does New suit?
Good for: Anglers interested in crucians and F1s; Clubs considering a 20-angler match. Less suited to: Matches needing more than 20 places.
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
Are carp mats or cradles required?
Required on Main, Christmas Tree and Horseshoe.
- Must
Are barbless hooks compulsory in matches?
The published match rules require barbless hooks.
- No
Are floating baits allowed in matches?
No floating baits under the published match rules.
- Must
Must dogs stay on a lead?
Dogs must remain leashed.
- Yes
Is night fishing available?
Night fishing is available through 24-hour tickets; confirm arrangements for your chosen lake.
- Yes
Can I buy a ticket on arrival?
Turn up and purchase tickets onsite.
- No
Is Half Moon open?
Half Moon is listed closed.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 2 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.
Main 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.
Christmas Tree
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.
Pittance
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
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.
Oak Tree
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
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.
Cherry Tree
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.
Top
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Spread the bait with a spod or throwing stick — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
Old
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.
New
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.
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
7.3/10 from Tackle Index: Advertised specimen carp, reported big perch and mixed coarse options give anglers plenty to aim at, without guaranteeing catches.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
We haven’t found any public angler reviews of this venue yet. Fished it? Add yours below.
Our take on the feedback
Our read
Checked Sept '26 — “Willinghurst has a proper spread of carp, mixed coarse and match fishing, with 12 lakes listed and Main Lake carp advertised to 40lb. Turn up and buy your ticket onsite, but check which lake fits your plans before loading the car.”
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 Willinghurst Fishery
No angler score yet — nobody's reviewed Willinghurst Fishery here. Be the first and get the score started.