Fishery guide · Surrey
Willow Park Fishery
Willow Park is a four-lake, 22-acre complex near Aldershot, with overnight carp fishing, mixed coarse lakes and a beginner-friendly Stock Pond. There’s a café and tackle shop too — just watch the different age rules and ticket arrangements between lakes.
“7.2/10 — Four lakes cover carp and mixed coarse fishing, with year-round nights on Big Lake, though catch consistency isn’t established here.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Willow Park gives you four quite different options on one 22-acre complex. It’s on Youngs Drive in Ash, near Aldershot, rather than somewhere you need to hunt down along a mystery country lane. There’s a bigger water for a proper overnight session, two mixed coarse lakes and a little Stock Pond aimed at beginners and children.
- 4 lakes: Big Lake, Middle Lake, Small Lake, Stock Pond
- Fish: carp, pike, roach, bream, tench, perch
- Tickets from: Stock/Small/Middle adult day tickets — £14 for one rod or £18 for two.
- Find it: Aldershot · GU12 6RE
Plan your session
Fishery map of Willow Park Fishery
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Colin Smith. 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 Willow Park Fishery
Willow Park gives you four quite different options on one 22-acre complex. It’s on Youngs Drive in Ash, near Aldershot, rather than somewhere you need to hunt down along a mystery country lane. There’s a bigger water for a proper overnight session, two mixed coarse lakes and a little Stock Pond aimed at beginners and children. That’s a handy spread if your idea of a good day changes between settling in behind the carp rods and keeping things simple with the family.
Big Lake is the largest of the lot at 10 acres, with depths of 4–8 feet. Common and mirror carp share it with pike and roach, and the fishery advertises year-round fishing, including nights. Its published tickets include 24-hour sessions and a seven-day option, so this is the water to look at if a quick afternoon won’t scratch the itch. No carp weights are supplied here, though, so don’t read the lake’s name as a promise of a particular-sized lump.
Middle Lake brings things down to approximately two acres, with 27 platforms and depths of 4–5 feet. Carp, bream, tench, roach and perch give it a proper mixed coarse line-up. Small Lake is 1.5 acres, has 30 platforms and sits at approximately 4–5 feet deep, with F1s alongside common and mirror carp, tench, bream, perch and roach. Those are useful differences when choosing your water, rather than simply taking whichever name sounds best.
For a first go, Stock Pond is the one explicitly promoted for beginners and children. It covers 0.6 acres, and the fishery lists common and mirror carp weighing 1–2lb. There’s one important age-rule wrinkle elsewhere: Middle Lake requires anglers to be 18+, even though the shared Stock/Small/Middle tariff includes an under-16 heading. Don’t assume that price heading gives a youngster permission to fish Middle. Pick the lake first, then make sure the ticket fits.
The on-site café and tackle shop are useful extras, particularly if you’re organising more than just your own day. Their hours aren’t all the same, so check the published times below before banking on a late bite to eat. Everyone needs to report to reception on arrival and hold a valid ticket. One small navigation heads-up, too: the supplied map coordinates identify Willow Park Café, not the centre of a lake.
Before packing, give the rules a proper look. Barbless hooks are required, braided mainline and bait boats are out, and nets, mats and retainers need dipping in the designated tank. Big Lake also requires a 42-inch landing net and allows bivvies rather than tents. We haven’t fished Willow Park, so this isn’t a catch report or a promise you’ll bag up. What’s clear is the choice: longer sessions, mixed coarse fishing or a beginner-focused pond, with practical differences worth sorting before you head off.
Straight from anglers online
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Willow Park Fishery FAQs
Where is Willow Park Fishery?
Youngs Drive, Ash, near Aldershot, GU12 6RE. The supplied map coordinates identify the on-site Willow Park Café rather than the lake centre.
How do I enquire about booking Big Lake?
Call the fishery. Published 24-hour sessions start at 10am or 4pm.
Is there somewhere to eat or buy tackle?
Yes, there’s an on-site café and tackle shop. Tackle-shop hours are 7am–7pm daily. Cafe hours are Sunday–Thursday 8am–3pm and Friday–Saturday 8am–6pm.
Which lake should I look at for a child's first session?
Stock Pond is explicitly promoted for beginners and children. Middle Lake is restricted to anglers aged 18+, so don’t let the shared junior tariff heading catch you out.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's tackle shop on site, so you can grab bits on the day. For anything bigger, stock up before you leave home — or order online in advance.
Do I need to bring food?
There's on-site willow park 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?
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?
GU12 6RE.
How much is a ticket?
Stock/Small/Middle adult day tickets: £14 for one rod or £18 for two.; Stock/Small/Middle published under-16 day tariff; Middle Lake separately requires anglers to be 18+: £9 for one rod or £15 for two; Stock/Small/Middle disabled and over-65 day tickets, Monday–Friday: £9 for one rod or £14 for two.; Stock/Small/Middle adult afternoon tickets: £7 for one rod or £12 for two.; Published under-16 afternoon tariff, subject to lake age restrictions: £5 for one rod or £10 for two; Stock/Small/Middle non-fishing guest day ticket: £5.; Big Lake 24-hour tickets, starting at 10am or 4pm: £25 for two rods or £30 for three; Big Lake 24-hour ticket including a non-angler: £35 for two rods or £40 for three.; Big Lake seven-day ticket: £175 for either two or three rods.; Big Lake exclusive hire: £1,000 per 24 hours.. 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 Middle Lake, Small Lake, Stock Pond. Busy weekends can fill up, so ring ahead if you've got your heart set on a swim.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find carp, pike, roach, bream, tench, perch. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
4 — Big Lake (10), Middle Lake (Approximately 2), Small Lake (1.5), Stock Pond (0.6).
Is night fishing allowed?
No — Under-18s fishing overnight must be accompanied by someone over 18.
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?
No — Braided mainline and bait boats are prohibited.
Do I need barbless hooks?
Yes, it's required — Barbless hooks are required.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
No — Keepnets are prohibited except fishery-supplied nets during matches.
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.
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Pre-book only
Big Lake: the bigger water for an overnight session
- Size
- 10 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, pike, roach
At 10 acres, Big Lake is the largest water at Willow Park. Depths run from 4–8 feet, with common and mirror carp, pike and roach listed. It’s the option for anglers who want more water in front of them than the smaller coarse lakes offer.
Year-round fishing includes nights, with 24-hour tickets starting at 10am or 4pm. Bring a 42-inch landing net, and take a bivvy rather than a tent. For bookings, call the fishery; under-18s fishing overnight must have someone over 18 with them.
Lake photographs
A look around Big Lake
Willow Park Fishery
Big Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Big Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp anglers looking for an overnight session
- Anglers wanting the largest lake on the complex
Maybe not for
- Anyone planning to sleep in a tent rather than a bivvy
- Under-18s planning an unaccompanied overnight trip
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Big Lake
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.
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.
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.
Big Lake FAQs
Can I night fish Big Lake?
Yes. Big Lake advertises year-round fishing, including nights, with 24-hour tickets starting at 10am or 4pm.
What landing net do I need?
Big Lake requires a 42-inch landing net. Nets, mats and retainers must also be dipped in the designated tank.
What's the lake record on Big Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Big 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 Big Lake?
carp, pike, roach.
How big is Big Lake and how many swims?
Around 10 acres. The bigger water for an overnight session.
Which baits work well on Big Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Big 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 Big Lake 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 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 Willow Park Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Big 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 Big Lake on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Big Lake in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Big Lake?
No — Under-18s fishing overnight must be accompanied by someone over 18.
Who does Big Lake suit?
Good for: Carp anglers looking for an overnight session; Anglers wanting the largest lake on the complex. Less suited to: Anyone planning to sleep in a tent rather than a bivvy; Under-18s planning an unaccompanied overnight trip.
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
Middle Lake: mixed coarse fishing with an adults-only age rule
- Size
- Approximately 2 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, bream, tench, roach, perch
Middle Lake covers approximately two acres, with 27 platforms and depths of 4–5 feet. Carp, bream, tench, roach and perch make up the listed species, so this isn’t just a carp-only choice.
The big practical point is the age restriction: anglers must be 18+. Although Middle appears in a shared tariff with under-16 prices, that doesn’t override its own rule. Get that sorted before planning a family day on this water.
Lake photographs
A look around Middle Lake
Willow Park Fishery
Middle Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Middle Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Adult anglers after mixed coarse species
- Anglers looking for a smaller water with platforms
Maybe not for
- Under-18 anglers
- Families wanting children to fish alongside adults on this lake
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Middle Lake
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.
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.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
Middle Lake FAQs
Can under-16s fish Middle Lake using the shared junior tariff?
No. Middle Lake separately requires anglers to be 18+, despite appearing in the shared tariff heading.
How deep is Middle Lake?
Published depths are 4–5 feet across a lake of approximately two acres.
What's the lake record on Middle Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Middle 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 Middle Lake?
carp, bream, tench, roach, perch.
How big is Middle Lake and how many swims?
Around Approximately 2 acres. Mixed coarse fishing with an adults-only age rule.
Which baits work well on Middle Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Middle 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 Middle 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 Middle 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 Willow Park Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Middle 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 Middle Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Middle Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Stock/Small/Middle adult day tickets £14 for one rod or £18 for two.; Stock/Small/Middle published under-16 day tariff; Middle Lake separately requires anglers to be 18+ £9 for one rod or £15 for two; Stock/Small/Middle disabled and over-65 day tickets, Monday–Friday £9 for one rod or £14 for two.; Stock/Small/Middle adult afternoon tickets £7 for one rod or £12 for two.; Published under-16 afternoon tariff, subject to lake age restrictions £5 for one rod or £10 for two; Stock/Small/Middle non-fishing guest day ticket £5.; Big Lake 24-hour tickets, starting at 10am or 4pm £25 for two rods or £30 for three; Big Lake 24-hour ticket including a non-angler £35 for two rods or £40 for three.; Big Lake seven-day ticket £175 for either two or three rods.; Big Lake exclusive hire £1,000 per 24 hours. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Middle Lake?
No — Under-18s fishing overnight must be accompanied by someone over 18.
Who does Middle Lake suit?
Good for: Adult anglers after mixed coarse species; Anglers looking for a smaller water with platforms. Less suited to: Under-18 anglers; Families wanting children to fish alongside adults on this lake.
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
Small Lake: a compact mixed lake with f1s in the line-up
- Size
- 1.5 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, perch, roach
Small Lake packs a mixed species list into 1.5 acres, with 30 platforms and depths of approximately 4–5 feet. Common and mirror carp are joined by F1s, tench, bream, perch and roach.
Day and afternoon tickets are published for this water. Keep the keepnet at home for ordinary sessions: they’re prohibited except for fishery-supplied nets during matches. Everyone must report to reception and hold a valid ticket before getting stuck in.
Stocks include common and mirror carp, F1s, tench, bream, perch and roach.
Lake photographs
A look around Small Lake
Willow Park Fishery
Small Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Small Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers interested in mixed coarse fishing and F1s
- Visitors looking for a day or afternoon ticket
Maybe not for
- Anglers wanting to use their own keepnet
- Anyone looking for the complex’s largest water
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Small Lake
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.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
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.
Small Lake FAQs
Does Small Lake contain F1s?
Yes. F1s are listed alongside common and mirror carp, tench, bream, perch and roach.
Can I use a keepnet?
Not on an ordinary session. Only fishery-supplied keepnets during matches are permitted.
What's the lake record on Small Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Stocks include common and mirror carp, F1s, tench, bream, perch and roach. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Small Lake?
carp, tench, bream, perch, roach. Stocks include common and mirror carp, F1s, tench, bream, perch and roach.
How big is Small Lake and how many swims?
Around 1.5 acres. A compact mixed lake with F1s in the line-up.
Which baits work well on Small Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Small 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 Small 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 Small 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 Willow Park Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Small 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 Small Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Small Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Stock/Small/Middle adult day tickets £14 for one rod or £18 for two.; Stock/Small/Middle published under-16 day tariff; Middle Lake separately requires anglers to be 18+ £9 for one rod or £15 for two; Stock/Small/Middle disabled and over-65 day tickets, Monday–Friday £9 for one rod or £14 for two.; Stock/Small/Middle adult afternoon tickets £7 for one rod or £12 for two.; Published under-16 afternoon tariff, subject to lake age restrictions £5 for one rod or £10 for two; Stock/Small/Middle non-fishing guest day ticket £5.; Big Lake 24-hour tickets, starting at 10am or 4pm £25 for two rods or £30 for three; Big Lake 24-hour ticket including a non-angler £35 for two rods or £40 for three.; Big Lake seven-day ticket £175 for either two or three rods.; Big Lake exclusive hire £1,000 per 24 hours. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Small Lake?
No — Under-18s fishing overnight must be accompanied by someone over 18.
Who does Small Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers interested in mixed coarse fishing and F1s; Visitors looking for a day or afternoon ticket. Less suited to: Anglers wanting to use their own keepnet; Anyone looking for the complex’s largest water.
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
Stock Pond: the beginner-focused option
- Size
- 0.6 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Stock Pond is the smallest named water at 0.6 acres. The fishery promotes it for beginners and children, making it the clearest starting point if you’re choosing somewhere for a first go.
The listed fish are common and mirror carp weighing 1–2lb. That’s a very different brief from booking a long session on Big Lake: think beginner-focused fishing rather than choosing a water on the strength of big-fish expectations.
Common and mirror carp weighing 1–2lb.
Lake photographs
A look around Stock Pond
Willow Park Fishery
Stock Pond
We’re checking the fishery’s Stock Pond pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Beginners getting into fishing
- Children trying carp fishing
Maybe not for
- Anglers choosing a venue specifically for large carp
- Anyone wanting a large expanse of water
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Stock 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.
Stock Pond FAQs
Is Stock Pond suitable for children?
Yes. The fishery explicitly promotes Stock Pond for beginners and children.
What fish are listed for Stock Pond?
The fishery lists common and mirror carp weighing 1–2lb.
What's the lake record on Stock Pond?
Going by what the fishery says: Common and mirror carp weighing 1–2lb. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Stock Pond?
carp. Common and mirror carp weighing 1–2lb.
How big is Stock Pond and how many swims?
Around 0.6 acres. The beginner-focused option.
Which baits work well on Stock Pond?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Stock Pond further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Stock 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 Stock 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 Willow Park Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Stock 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 Stock Pond on a day ticket?
Yes — Stock Pond is on the day ticket. Tickets: Stock/Small/Middle adult day tickets £14 for one rod or £18 for two.; Stock/Small/Middle published under-16 day tariff; Middle Lake separately requires anglers to be 18+ £9 for one rod or £15 for two; Stock/Small/Middle disabled and over-65 day tickets, Monday–Friday £9 for one rod or £14 for two.; Stock/Small/Middle adult afternoon tickets £7 for one rod or £12 for two.; Published under-16 afternoon tariff, subject to lake age restrictions £5 for one rod or £10 for two; Stock/Small/Middle non-fishing guest day ticket £5.; Big Lake 24-hour tickets, starting at 10am or 4pm £25 for two rods or £30 for three; Big Lake 24-hour ticket including a non-angler £35 for two rods or £40 for three.; Big Lake seven-day ticket £175 for either two or three rods.; Big Lake exclusive hire £1,000 per 24 hours. (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Stock Pond?
No — Under-18s fishing overnight must be accompanied by someone over 18.
Who does Stock Pond suit?
Good for: Beginners getting into fishing; Children trying carp fishing. Less suited to: Anglers choosing a venue specifically for large carp; Anyone wanting a large expanse of water.
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Venue Rule Checker
- Must
Must I report to reception and have a ticket?
Everyone must report to reception on arrival and hold a valid ticket.
- Must
Are barbless hooks compulsory?
Barbless hooks are required.
- No
Can I use braided mainline or a bait boat?
Braided mainline and bait boats are prohibited.
- Must
Must I dip my fish-care equipment?
Nets, mats and retainers must be dipped in the designated tank.
- No
Can I use a keepnet outside a match?
Keepnets are prohibited except fishery-supplied nets during matches.
- Must
Does Big Lake have specific net and shelter requirements?
A 42-inch landing net is required. Bivvies are permitted, but tents are not.
- No
Can under-18s fish Big Lake overnight alone?
Under-18s fishing overnight must be accompanied by someone over 18.
- Must
Must Middle Lake anglers be 18 or over?
Middle Lake requires anglers to be 18+, despite the under-16 heading in the shared tariff.
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.
Big Lake
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.
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.
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.
Middle Lake
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.
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.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
Small Lake
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.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
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.
Stock 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.
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
7.2/10 from Tackle Index: Four lakes cover carp and mixed coarse fishing, with year-round nights on Big Lake, though catch consistency isn’t established here.
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 — “Willow Park is a four-lake, 22-acre complex near Aldershot, with overnight carp fishing, mixed coarse lakes and a beginner-friendly Stock Pond. There’s a café and tackle shop too — just watch the different age rules and ticket arrangements between lakes.”
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.
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