Fishery guide · West Sussex
Sumners Ponds Fishery
Five coarse waters, a proper mix of species and a dedicated specimen lake make Sumners Ponds a handy shout near Horsham. Just pick your water carefully: Sumners Lake has tighter access rules than the other four.
“7.5/10 — Five waters offer mixed coarse and specimen choices, though catches and fish sizes aren’t established here.”
Tackle Index scorecard
The lowdown
Sumners Ponds is on Chapel Road in Barns Green, near Horsham, West Sussex. There are five coarse-fishing waters here, and choosing between them is the first bit of homework worth doing. This isn’t a case of every lake offering the same fishing under a different name. You’ve got mixed coarse options, Match Lake and a dedicated specimen water, plus access restrictions on Sumners Lake itself.
- 5 lakes: Sumners Lake, Farm Pond, Match Lake, Ribbon Lake, Betty’s Lake
- Fish: carp, perch, roach, pike, bream, tench, rudd, crucian
- Tickets from: Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — adult day ticket — £12 for one rod or £14 for two
- Find it: Horsham · RH13 0PR
Plan your session
Fishery map of Sumners Ponds Fishery
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Pam Goodey. 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 Sumners Ponds Fishery
Sumners Ponds is on Chapel Road in Barns Green, near Horsham, West Sussex. There are five coarse-fishing waters here, and choosing between them is the first bit of homework worth doing. This isn’t a case of every lake offering the same fishing under a different name. You’ve got mixed coarse options, Match Lake and a dedicated specimen water, plus access restrictions on Sumners Lake itself. Get that choice sorted before loading the car and you’ll save yourself some faff at reception.
For a mixed-species day, Farm Pond, Ribbon Lake and Match Lake all deserve a look. Farm Pond lists carp, tench, roach, rudd, perch and crucians. Match Lake covers 3.5 acres and adds barbel and chub to its mix of carp, crucians, tench and roach. Ribbon has the longest species list, including golden tench alongside tench, barbel, perch, chub, bream, roach, crucians and carp. Plenty of choice if your idea of a cracking session isn’t just waiting for one particular species.
Betty’s Lake is the specimen option: a 3.5-acre water behind Bluebell Woods containing mirror carp, common carp and pike. That makes it the obvious one to investigate if carp are your main interest, rather than a varied mixed-coarse session. There are no checked fish weights or stocking numbers here, though, so let’s not dress it up with promises of lumps or a guaranteed PB. Sumners Lake also holds carp and pike, along with perch, roach and bream.
Access is the important wrinkle. Day tickets can be bought from reception or the visiting bailiff, but Sumners Lake is restricted to members and anglers occupying lakeside pitches or accommodation. Don’t assume that staying anywhere on site automatically gets you onto that particular lake. Betty’s has its own ticket arrangement too, with two rods covered and a third only available for an extra charge at the bailiff’s discretion. Its published ticket has no concession discount.
Fishing is listed as available throughout the year, with daytime hours ending at 9pm or dusk, whichever comes first. That dusk cut-off matters when you’re planning a shorter winter session. Night fishing is a separate arrangement, not simply permission to keep the rods out after dark. It needs an appointment and at least 48 hours’ notice, is restricted to members and campers, and requires at least one participant aged 21 or older. Sort that beforehand rather than chancing it on the bank.
There’s a bait and tackle shop in reception, and bailiffs offer fishing help and advice—a useful starting point when deciding which water fits your plans. We haven’t fished here, so there’s no invented hot peg or magic margins tip to pass on. The firm basics are straightforward: proper barbless hooks only, return fish promptly and stay at your swim while your rods are fishing. Check the full rules outside reception or on the website before tackling up.
Straight from anglers online
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Sumners Ponds Fishery FAQs
Where is Sumners Ponds?
On Chapel Road, Barns Green, near Horsham in West Sussex.
Where do I buy a fishing ticket?
From reception or the visiting bailiff. Remember that Sumners Lake has separate eligibility restrictions.
Is fishing available all year?
Yes, fishing is listed as available throughout the year. Daytime hours are 7am until 9pm or dusk, whichever comes first.
Can I book an overnight session?
Night fishing requires an appointment and at least 48 hours’ notice. It is restricted to members and campers, with at least one participant aged 21 or older. Published night-swim sessions run from 1pm on arrival until noon the following day.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's reception with 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?
We haven't seen any food on site, so bring your own grub and drinks. A flask and a stove (where allowed) make a long day much better.
Are there toilets on site?
Not that we've seen listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off. Bring a barrow in case it's a walk.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
RH13 0PR.
How much is a ticket?
Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — adult day ticket: £12 for one rod or £14 for two; Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — under-16s and over-60s: £8 for one rod or £11 for two; Betty’s Lake — day ticket, no concession discount: £18 for two rods; Betty’s Lake — third rod, at bailiff’s discretion: £3; Sumners Lake — eligible adults, one/two rods: £12/£14; Sumners Lake — eligible concessions, one/two rods: £8/£11. 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 Farm Pond, Match Lake, Ribbon Lake, Betty’s Lake. 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, roach, pike, bream, tench, rudd, crucian, barbel, chub. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
5 — Sumners Lake (Not published), Farm Pond (Not published), Match Lake (3.5), Ribbon Lake (Not published), Betty’s Lake (3.5).
Is night fishing allowed?
Yes, it's required — An appointment and at least 48 hours’ notice are required. Access is restricted to members and campers, with at least one participant aged 21 or older.
Can I bring my dog?
Not covered in the rules we've checked. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Are bait boats allowed?
We haven't seen a bait-boat rule listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Do I need barbless hooks?
Yes, it's required — Only barbless hooks are permitted. Micro-barbed and crushed-barb hooks are prohibited.
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?
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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Pre-book only
Sumners Lake: mixed coarse fishing with restricted access
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, perch, roach, pike, bream
Sumners Lake holds carp, perch, roach, pike and bream. A mixed line-up, rather than a carp-only water.
The big thing here is eligibility: fishing is restricted to members and anglers occupying lakeside pitches or accommodation. The access label flags that restriction; it isn’t an ordinary open day-ticket option or a promise that booking alone gets you in.
Lake photographs
A look around Sumners Lake
Sumners Ponds Fishery
Sumners Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Sumners Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Members wanting a mixed-species water
- Anglers occupying lakeside pitches or accommodation
Maybe not for
- Visitors wanting unrestricted day-ticket access
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Sumners Lake
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.
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.
Sumners Lake FAQs
Can any day visitor fish Sumners Lake?
No. Access is restricted to members and anglers occupying lakeside pitches or accommodation.
Is it just a carp lake?
No—perch, roach, pike and bream are also listed.
What's the lake record on Sumners Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Sumners 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 Sumners Lake?
carp, perch, roach, pike, bream.
How big is Sumners Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. Mixed coarse fishing with restricted access.
Which baits work well on Sumners Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Sumners 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 Sumners 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 Sumners 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 Sumners Ponds Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Sumners 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 Sumners Lake on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Sumners Lake in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Sumners Lake?
Yes, it's required — An appointment and at least 48 hours’ notice are required. Access is restricted to members and campers, with at least one participant aged 21 or older.
Who does Sumners Lake suit?
Good for: Members wanting a mixed-species water; Anglers occupying lakeside pitches or accommodation. Less suited to: Visitors wanting unrestricted day-ticket access.
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
Farm Pond: a mixed-coarse option with tench and crucians
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, roach, rudd, perch, crucian
Farm Pond brings together carp, tench, roach, rudd, perch and crucians. Worth a look if you fancy variety rather than making the whole session about carp.
It shares the published one-rod and two-rod ticket structure with Ribbon and Match Lake. Under-16s and over-60s have concession prices too.
Lake photographs
A look around Farm Pond
Sumners Ponds Fishery
Farm Pond
We’re checking the fishery’s Farm Pond pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers after a mixed-coarse session
- Anyone interested in tench and crucians
Maybe not for
- Anglers specifically seeking a designated specimen water
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Farm 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.
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.
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.
Farm Pond FAQs
Are tench and crucians listed?
Yes, both are listed alongside carp, roach, rudd and perch.
Are concession tickets available?
Yes, for under-16s and over-60s.
What's the lake record on Farm Pond?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Farm 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 Farm Pond?
carp, tench, roach, rudd, perch, crucian.
How big is Farm Pond and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A mixed-coarse option with tench and crucians.
Which baits work well on Farm Pond?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Farm 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 Farm 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 Farm 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 Sumners Ponds Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Farm 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 Farm Pond on a day ticket?
Yes — Farm Pond is on the day ticket. Tickets: Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — adult day ticket £12 for one rod or £14 for two; Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — under-16s and over-60s £8 for one rod or £11 for two; Betty’s Lake — day ticket, no concession discount £18 for two rods; Betty’s Lake — third rod, at bailiff’s discretion £3; Sumners Lake — eligible adults, one/two rods £12/£14; Sumners Lake — eligible concessions, one/two rods £8/£11 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Farm Pond?
Yes, it's required — An appointment and at least 48 hours’ notice are required. Access is restricted to members and campers, with at least one participant aged 21 or older.
Who does Farm Pond suit?
Good for: Anglers after a mixed-coarse session; Anyone interested in tench and crucians. Less suited to: Anglers specifically seeking a designated specimen 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
Match Lake: three and a half acres with a varied species mix
- Size
- 3.5 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, barbel, chub, crucian, tench, roach
Match Lake covers 3.5 acres and contains carp, barbel, chub, crucians, tench and roach. There’s more to its species list than carp alone.
Day tickets cover either one or two rods, with concessions available. The checked details don’t give a match calendar, so ask about any event arrangements before making firm plans.
Lake photographs
A look around Match Lake
Sumners Ponds Fishery
Match Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Match Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Day-ticket anglers wanting mixed species
- Anglers interested in barbel and chub
Maybe not for
- Visitors needing a confirmed match calendar before choosing a date
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish 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.
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder. Use a strong rod and line, and rest them properly in the net before release.
- Halibut pellet or small boilie over a bed of pellet.
- Strong hooklink and a size 10–12 hook.
- Never hold barbel out of water long — keep them in the net until they've recovered.
chub
Bread or worm tight to cover for chub
Chub sit under overhanging trees and snags and are cautious, so a quiet approach and a natural bait near cover catches them.
- Bread flake or lobworm on a size 8 hook with a link leger.
- Keep low and quiet on the bank.
- In summer, try a free-lined slug or floating crust.
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.
Match Lake FAQs
How big is Match Lake?
It covers 3.5 acres.
Does it contain barbel?
Yes. Barbel and chub are listed alongside carp, crucians, tench and roach.
What's the lake record on Match Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for 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 Match Lake?
carp, barbel, chub, crucian, tench, roach.
Which baits work well on Match Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for 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 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 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 Sumners Ponds Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on 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 Match Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Match Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — adult day ticket £12 for one rod or £14 for two; Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — under-16s and over-60s £8 for one rod or £11 for two; Betty’s Lake — day ticket, no concession discount £18 for two rods; Betty’s Lake — third rod, at bailiff’s discretion £3; Sumners Lake — eligible adults, one/two rods £12/£14; Sumners Lake — eligible concessions, one/two rods £8/£11 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Match Lake?
Yes, it's required — An appointment and at least 48 hours’ notice are required. Access is restricted to members and campers, with at least one participant aged 21 or older.
Who does Match Lake suit?
Good for: Day-ticket anglers wanting mixed species; Anglers interested in barbel and chub. Less suited to: Visitors needing a confirmed match calendar before choosing a date.
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
Ribbon Lake: the broadest listed species mix of the five waters
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- barbel, tench, perch, chub, bream, roach, crucian, carp
Ribbon Lake has a proper varied line-up: barbel, tench, golden tench, perch, chub, bream, roach, crucians and carp. A good one to investigate if species variety is your thing.
Its published tickets follow the same structure as Farm Pond and Match Lake. No checked size or peg-layout details are supplied, so there’s no pretending we know its best swim.
Lake photographs
A look around Ribbon Lake
Sumners Ponds Fishery
Ribbon Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Ribbon Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers who enjoy a varied species list
- Tench enthusiasts interested in golden tench too
Maybe not for
- Anglers wanting a dedicated specimen-carp water
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Ribbon 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.
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder. Use a strong rod and line, and rest them properly in the net before release.
- Halibut pellet or small boilie over a bed of pellet.
- Strong hooklink and a size 10–12 hook.
- Never hold barbel out of water long — keep them in the net until they've recovered.
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.
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.
Ribbon Lake FAQs
Are golden tench listed in Ribbon Lake?
Yes, both tench and golden tench are listed.
Can I buy a one-rod ticket?
Yes. Published day tickets include one-rod and two-rod options.
What's the lake record on Ribbon Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Ribbon 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 Ribbon Lake?
barbel, tench, perch, chub, bream, roach, crucian, carp.
How big is Ribbon Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. The broadest listed species mix of the five waters.
Which baits work well on Ribbon Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Ribbon 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 Ribbon 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 Ribbon 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 Sumners Ponds Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Ribbon 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 Ribbon Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Ribbon Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — adult day ticket £12 for one rod or £14 for two; Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — under-16s and over-60s £8 for one rod or £11 for two; Betty’s Lake — day ticket, no concession discount £18 for two rods; Betty’s Lake — third rod, at bailiff’s discretion £3; Sumners Lake — eligible adults, one/two rods £12/£14; Sumners Lake — eligible concessions, one/two rods £8/£11 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Ribbon Lake?
Yes, it's required — An appointment and at least 48 hours’ notice are required. Access is restricted to members and campers, with at least one participant aged 21 or older.
Who does Ribbon Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers who enjoy a varied species list; Tench enthusiasts interested in golden tench too. Less suited to: Anglers wanting a dedicated specimen-carp 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
Betty’s Lake: the specimen water behind bluebell woods
- Size
- 3.5 acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, pike
Betty’s Lake is a 3.5-acre specimen water behind Bluebell Woods. Mirror carp, common carp and pike are the listed species.
The day ticket covers two rods, with no concession discount. Fancy a third? That costs extra and needs the bailiff’s discretion—don’t treat it as automatic.
Lake photographs
A look around Betty’s Lake
Sumners Ponds Fishery
Betty’s Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Betty’s Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp anglers looking for a designated specimen water
- Anglers planning a two-rod session
Maybe not for
- Anglers wanting concession prices
- Visitors seeking a broad mixed-coarse species list
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Betty’s 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.
pike
Static deadbaits for the pike
A smelly deadbait on the bottom near drop-offs or reed lines is the classic, reliable way to find a lake's pike, especially in the colder months.
- Sardine, smelt or mackerel on a wire trace with semi-barbless trebles.
- Strike early — never let a pike run off with the bait.
- Have a long forceps, unhooking mat and big net ready before you cast.
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.
Betty’s Lake FAQs
How big is Betty’s Lake?
It is 3.5 acres and sits behind Bluebell Woods.
Is a third rod allowed?
Only at the bailiff’s discretion, with an additional £3 charge.
What's the lake record on Betty’s Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Betty’s 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 Betty’s Lake?
carp, pike.
Which baits work well on Betty’s Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Betty’s 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 Betty’s 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 Betty’s 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 Sumners Ponds Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Betty’s 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 Betty’s Lake on a day ticket?
Yes — Betty’s Lake is on the day ticket. Tickets: Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — adult day ticket £12 for one rod or £14 for two; Farm Pond, Ribbon and Match Lake — under-16s and over-60s £8 for one rod or £11 for two; Betty’s Lake — day ticket, no concession discount £18 for two rods; Betty’s Lake — third rod, at bailiff’s discretion £3; Sumners Lake — eligible adults, one/two rods £12/£14; Sumners Lake — eligible concessions, one/two rods £8/£11 (last checked 2026-10-02).
Is night fishing allowed on Betty’s Lake?
Yes, it's required — An appointment and at least 48 hours’ notice are required. Access is restricted to members and campers, with at least one participant aged 21 or older.
Who does Betty’s Lake suit?
Good for: Carp anglers looking for a designated specimen water; Anglers planning a two-rod session. Less suited to: Anglers wanting concession prices; Visitors seeking a broad mixed-coarse species list.
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
Must hooks be barbless?
Only barbless hooks are permitted. Micro-barbed and crushed-barb hooks are prohibited.
- Must
Must all fish be returned?
This is catch-and-release fishing; return fish promptly.
- No
Can I leave my swim while my rods are fishing?
Anglers must stay at their swim while their rods are fishing.
- Must
Does night fishing need arranging?
An appointment and at least 48 hours’ notice are required. Access is restricted to members and campers, with at least one participant aged 21 or older.
- No
Is Sumners Lake open to every day-ticket visitor?
Only members and anglers occupying lakeside pitches or accommodation may fish it.
- Only if
Can I use a third rod on Betty’s Lake?
A third rod costs an additional £3 and is allowed only at the bailiff’s discretion.
- Must
Should I check the full fishery rules before fishing?
Fishery rules are displayed outside reception and on the website.
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.
Sumners Lake
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.
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.
Farm 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.
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.
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.
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.
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder. Use a strong rod and line, and rest them properly in the net before release.
- Halibut pellet or small boilie over a bed of pellet.
- Strong hooklink and a size 10–12 hook.
- Never hold barbel out of water long — keep them in the net until they've recovered.
chub
Bread or worm tight to cover for chub
Chub sit under overhanging trees and snags and are cautious, so a quiet approach and a natural bait near cover catches them.
- Bread flake or lobworm on a size 8 hook with a link leger.
- Keep low and quiet on the bank.
- In summer, try a free-lined slug or floating crust.
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.
Ribbon 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.
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder. Use a strong rod and line, and rest them properly in the net before release.
- Halibut pellet or small boilie over a bed of pellet.
- Strong hooklink and a size 10–12 hook.
- Never hold barbel out of water long — keep them in the net until they've recovered.
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.
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.
Betty’s 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.
pike
Static deadbaits for the pike
A smelly deadbait on the bottom near drop-offs or reed lines is the classic, reliable way to find a lake's pike, especially in the colder months.
- Sardine, smelt or mackerel on a wire trace with semi-barbless trebles.
- Strike early — never let a pike run off with the bait.
- Have a long forceps, unhooking mat and big net ready before you cast.
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.
Good background reading. Most of it is a few years old, so treat it as a starting point and ask on the day.
Videos linked by the fishery
What anglers reckon
7.5/10 from Tackle Index: Five waters offer mixed coarse and specimen choices, though catches and fish sizes aren’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 — “Five coarse waters, a proper mix of species and a dedicated specimen lake make Sumners Ponds a handy shout near Horsham. Just pick your water carefully: Sumners Lake has tighter access rules than the other four.”
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 Sumners Ponds Fishery
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