When it comes to angling in the UK, Hertfordshire is a hidden gem with its array of iconic fisheries and fishing clubs. Whether you are a seasoned angler or just starting out, Hertfordshire offers a variety of options to suit every preference.
What makes Hertfordshire's fisheries unique?
Hertfordshire is home to a diverse range of fisheries, from large lakes teeming with fish to more challenging waters that will put your angling skills to the test. Each fishery has its own unique characteristics, making it a truly exciting destination for anglers.
Where can you find historical fishing spots in Hertfordshire?
If you are a history buff, Hertfordshire has plenty to offer in terms of historical fishing spots. Many fisheries in the area have a rich heritage, with some dating back centuries. Fishing in these historical spots can provide a sense of connection to the past while enjoying the present-day beauty of the surroundings.
Are there fishing clubs in Hertfordshire?
Absolutely! Hertfordshire boasts a number of fishing clubs that cater to anglers of all levels. Whether you are looking to join a club for socializing with fellow anglers or to gain access to exclusive fishing spots, there is a club in Hertfordshire that will meet your needs.
Overall, Hertfordshire is a must-visit destination for any angler looking to explore new fishing grounds. With its iconic fisheries, challenging waters, and historical spots, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, pack your gear and head to Hertfordshire for an angling experience like no other!
1. Stanborough Lake
Stanborough Lake is found in Stanborough Park, two miles away from Welwyn Garden City. You can visit the 126 acres park, enjoy the countryside, and go fishing.
Welwyn Garden City Angling Club controls its lakes. One of them, the North Lake, is a stock pond for the local waters, so it isn’t open for fishing.
What concerns us is the South Lake, 16 acres of water with carp and other fish, including specimen bream, crucians, tench, chub, roach, zander, and pike. The carp are typically low or mid double-figures. You can find fish heavier than 20lb, and the lake record is over 32lb!
If you’re interested in catching these, you can get day tickets and concession passes. For night fishing, you’ll want to book in advance.
Aside from lakes and stunning views, the park features a bait and tackle shop, cafes, toilets, and parking so that you can have a trouble-free fishing trip.
Stanborough Lake at a Glance
| Name | Stanborough Lake |
| Lake Size | 16 acres |
| Location | Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6DF |
| Pricing | £8 for day tickets (per rod) – £30 for 24-hour access |
| Phone Number | 07789658056 |
| Record Carp |
32lb+ |
2. Rib Valley Lakes
Rib Valley Lakes are located in Crouchfields near Ware. The fishery features several lakes and a pond.
The first one is Millennium Lake, which is five acres and is open for fly fishing. And if you don’t use that method, coarse fishing is available in the trout close season.
Also, it’s available all year in Westmill Lake. Measuring 2.75 acres, this lake is home to carp in excess of 20lb.
The third is Rib Lake, the complex’s main specimen lake with carp as its target species. These 12 acres of water are separated by three islands.
Its carp is usually mid double-figures. You’ll find plenty of 20lb+ and some over 30lb. The lake record is 35lb.
As for beginners, you’ll find the 0.5-acre Kingfisher Pond excellent. It’s full of bream, roach, and small carp and is perfect for kids. Finally, you’ll find a well-stocked tackle shop at the facility.
Rib Valley Lakes at a Glance
| Name | Rib Valley Lakes |
| Lake Size | 5 acres – 2.75 acres – 12 acres |
| Location | Hertford, SG12 0ES |
| Pricing | £12 for day tickets (1 rod) – £32.50 for 24-hour access |
| Phone Number | 07789658056 |
| Record Carp | 35lb+ |
3. Albans Lake
Situated in Colney Heath, Albans Lake is a popular spot in Hertfordshire. This complex features three lakes.
Firstly, Farm Lake is 12 acres. It’s the specimen lake and go-to for experienced anglers who want a challenge.
After all, it’s the deepest lake of the three; its depth ranges from five feet to 20 feet. Also, it contains deep holes, islands, and plateaus.
The lake holds over 700 carp. Most of them are over 15lb, and the lake record is over 34lb.
Secondly, Willows Lake is about 22 acres. There are 7,000 carp in the lake (300 carp per acre!). You’ll mostly find 12lb and low/mid double-figures, but some are over 30lb.
Thirdly, Match Lake is a peg snake-shaped water body. It’s perfect for individual anglers, young anglers, and newbies with easy-to-catch, small carp. Finally, the complex has a well-stocked tackle shop.
Albans Lake at a Glance
| Name | Albans Lake |
| Lake Size | 12 acres – 22 acres – 6 acres |
| Location | St Albans, AL4 0RY |
| Pricing | £12 for day tickets – £25 and £30 for Willows and Farm Lake 24-hour access |
| Phone Number | 07903819270 |
| Record Carp | 34lb+ |
4. Nash Lakes
Find Nash Lakes in Frog End. The carp fishing icon, Kevin Nash, runs these exclusive lakes.
The largest is Wood Lake, taking up about five acres. It’s also deeper, ranging between three feet and 30 feet.
Previously club water, the lake originally had carp; now, it has an additional stock of 200 carp. Their average weights are 25+lb.
Kingfisher Lake, the second one, is long and narrow, with only four acres. Like Wood Lake, it has 200 extra carp along with its original stock. The lake record is 40lb, but we venture you could break it!
These lakes are a great match for anglers who love long fishing sessions. With a day ticket, you can enjoy sculpted surroundings, beautiful scenery, and handpicked carp.
Also, you can take it a step further and get a membership. This way, you get to book both lakes for ultimate exclusivity.
Nash Lakes at a Glance
| Name | Nash Lakes |
| Lake Size | 5 acres – 4 acres |
| Location | Royston, SG8 6RA |
| Pricing | From £20 |
| Phone Number | 01702233232 |
| Record Carp | 38lb+ |
5. Fairlands Lake
Fairlands Lake is in Fairlands Valley Park. It’s under the ownership of the local council, but Welwyn Garden City Angling Club manages the lake on its behalf.
The park features four lakes, which amount to over 20 acres of water. However, we’re only interested in Fairlands Lake. After all, the 4-acre lake is well-stocked with carp and coarse fish.
You’ll find most carp over 10lb and several bigger carp over 20lb. As for the carp lake record, it’s 35lb.
Not to mention, the lake is home to crucians, roach, rudd, barbel, chub, and perch. Lastly, Fairlands Lake grants you access to night fishing, a children’s area, a water play facility, parking, disability-friendly facilities, and more.
Fairlands Lake at a Glance
| Name | Fairlands Lake |
| Lake Size | 4 acres |
| Location | Stevenage, SG2 0BL |
| Pricing | £8.20 for day tickets (1 rod) – £20 for 24-hour access |
| Phone Number | 07719277443 |
| Record Carp | 35lb+ |
