Check out the best open-to-fish carp waters in the UK. There’s something for everyone, wherever you live and whatever size of carp you’re after.


Quarry Pool
Baden Hall Fishery, Eccleshall, Staffordshire

Formerly a working gravel pit, extraction ceased in 2000 and in 2007 the water was opened for fishing. The lake contains around 200 carp, including some truly stunning commons and mirrors. They grace the banks from a range of tactics, depending on the conditions, with quality boilies and maggots often scoring well.

The bottom is mainly made up of gravel and sand, with pockets of silt to be found. There is also a large expanse of gravel out in front, between pegs 16 to 18. The lake can also be very weedy in summer and these areas can hold numbers of fish.

A great touch is the small fishing huts, with every angler having his or her own to stay in, complete with a staging onto the bank. A fairly tricky venue but the rewards speak for themselves.

Contact: 01785 850313 Species: Carp Lake record: 41lb Rules: Barbless hooks only, must obtain ticket before fishing, see website for bait restrictions Tickets: £30 per 24 hours for two rods Website: www.badenhall.com