10 min read
Dorset, situated in the south-west of the UK, is a county that's famous for its stunning countryside, picturesque coastal towns, and rich history. However, it's also an angler's paradise, with a wealth of carp fishing lakes that draw enthusiasts from across the country. With its rolling hills, pristine waters, and abundance of fish, Dorset offers an unparalleled fishing experience. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top carp fishing lakes in Dorset, from intimate and secluded venues to larger, well-stocked commercial fisheries. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, these lakes offer a chance to catch some of the most prized carp in the UK, all set against the backdrop of Dorset's stunning natural beauty.
Clump Hill Farm Fishery (Wimborne)
Looking for a prime carp fishing location near Wimborne? Look no further than Clump Hill Farm Fishery, located in Mannington just 7 miles from the town. This serene 1-acre lake in East Dorset has gained popularity among anglers targeting silvers, but don't let that deter you from the chance to catch a bigger fish!
With a lake record carp exceeding 30 pounds and many other fish in the mid to upper double-figure bracket, Clump Hill Farm Fishery is a carp angler's dream destination. While there are plenty of smaller fish, trying new techniques will help you avoid getting overwhelmed by them.
Planning to fish at night? Make sure to obtain prior permission from the owners. A day ticket costs £7 for 2 rods and allows you to fish from 7:00am to 7:30pm.
Don't forget to bring your camera, as the stunning natural scenery provides the perfect backdrop for your trophy catch. So why wait? Head to Clump Hill Farm Fishery today and enjoy a day of thrilling carp fishing in Wimborne!
Key Points
- Clump Hill Farm Fishery is a popular fishing spot located in Mannington, just 7 miles from Wimborne
- This 1-acre lake in East Dorset is a great destination for catching carp
- The lake record carp weighs over 30 pounds, with many other fish in the mid to upper double-figure bracket
- You can fish from 7:00am to 7:30pm with a day ticket costing £7 for 2 rods
- Prior permission is required for night fishing
- Clump Hill Farm Fishery boasts stunning natural scenery, perfect for a day of carp fishing and trophy photos
Coking Farm Fishery (Gillingham)
Located in West Stour, just 7 miles from Gillingham, Coking Farm Fishery is one of the most well-known fishing venues in North Dorset. Boasting 7 lakes, 2 of which hold carp over 40lb, and 6 with residents that tip the scales at over 30lb, this fishery is a carp angler's paradise. Catfish can also be found in 3 of the lakes.
All the lakes at Coking Farm are around 4 acres in size, offering an abundance of features, and the stock levels vary in each. In addition to fantastic fishing, the venue provides amenities such as a toilet and shower block, tackle shop, and an on-site food van serving breakfast and evening meals. A butcher shop selling fresh, homemade burgers and sausages is also available for anglers who prefer to cook for themselves.
Coking Farm Fishery is well-run, with strict rules in place and bailiffs available to ensure the smooth running of the venue. A day ticket costs from £15, while a 24-hour ticket is available for £25.
Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, Coking Farm Fishery is the perfect destination to catch big carp in North Dorset. So why wait? Book your tickets today and experience the thrill of carp fishing at Coking Farm Fishery!
Key Points
- Coking Farm Fishery is located in West Stour, around 7 miles from Gillingham
- The venue is one of the most well-known fishing spots in North Dorset, with 7 lakes on offer
- 2 of the lakes hold carp over 40lb, while 6 have residents that weigh over 30lb
- There are catfish in 3 of the lakes
- The lakes are around 4 acres in size, each with unique features and stock levels
- The venue offers amenities such as a toilet and shower block, tackle shop, food van, and butcher shop
- Coking Farm Fishery is well-run with strict rules and available bailiffs
- Day ticket prices start at £15, with a 24-hour ticket available for £25
Crooked Willows Farm Fishery (Wimborne)
Looking for a budget-friendly carp fishing spot that still offers good-sized catches? Crooked Willows Farm Fishery might just be what you're looking for.
Conveniently located in Holt Heath, just 8 miles from Wimborne, this 1.5-acre lake boasts an island, lily pads, and reeds that add some extra challenge to your fishing experience.
While there aren't any monster fish lurking in the lake, the common, mirror, and ghost carp are all over 20lbs and offer plenty of excitement and rewards for any angler.
With 20 well-spaced swims, the lake rarely gets overcrowded, giving you ample space to fish comfortably.
Day tickets are reasonably priced at just £5, making this one of the most affordable carp fishing venues in East Dorset. If you prefer to fish overnight, you can also arrange a 24-hour session in advance for only £15.
Key Points
- Name: Crooked Willows Farm Fishery
- Location: Holt Heath, Wimborne, BH21 7LB
- Biggest Carp: Over 20lbs
- Lake Size: 1.5 acres
- Price: Day tickets from £5, 24-hour session for £15
- Contact: Call 07772 840 280 for more information.
Visit Crooked Willows Farm Fishery for an affordable yet rewarding carp fishing experience.
Dairy House Farm Fishery (Blandford Forum)
If you're looking for a great carp fishing experience in North Dorset, then Dairy House Farm Fishery is a must-visit. This popular fishery is located in Woolland, just 10 miles from Blandford Forum. With three lakes to choose from, it's easy to find the perfect spot to cast your line.
Alder Lake is mainly stocked with silvers, Park Lake is a runs water with carp to upper double-figures, but the real gem of the complex is Oak Lake. This specimen lake, approximately 1.5 acres in size, boasts a small island and mature margins that can be very productive. The current lake record for this water is over 30lb, and there are reports of some uncaught fish that could be even bigger!
In addition to great fishing, there is also self-catering accommodation available on-site and a well-stocked bait shop. Day tickets are priced at £12, and 24-hour tickets are available for £25.
Dairy House Farm Fishery is definitely a great choice for carp anglers who are looking for a reasonably priced fishing trip. Make sure to bring your A-game, as the fish in Oak Lake can be challenging, but catching one of these elusive beauties is definitely worth the effort.
Key Points
- Name: Dairy House Farm Fishery
- Location: Blandford Forum, DT11 0EY
- Biggest Carp: 30lb+
- Lake Size: 1.5 acres
- Price: From £12
- Call: 07966 308 998
If you're interested in learning more about carp fishing, be sure to check out our guide on the best particles for carp fishing.
Lyons Gate Fishery (Dorchester)
Lyons Gate Fishery is located in Middlemarsh, just 12 miles from Dorchester in West Dorset. The venue is primarily a campsite, but the real draw is the four lakes situated at its center. Of these, Kingfisher Lake is the largest and most popular for anglers looking to catch big carp.
At just over 1 acre in size, Kingfisher Lake features three islands that divide the water between opposing banks, making it a challenging yet exciting place to fish. The lake's record carp weighs over 30lb, and specimen tench weighing more than 10lb can also be caught here.
If you're looking for a day trip, day tickets at Lyons Gate Fishery cost only £6 for two rods. However, if you want to turn your fishing trip into a mini-break, it's possible to book a pitch at the on-site campsite. Additionally, night fishing is available if arranged in advance.
Key Points
- Name: Lyons Gate Fishery
- Location: Dorchester, DT2 7AZ
- Biggest Carp: 30lb+
- Lake Size: 1 acre
- Price: From £6
- Call: 01300 345 260
Trending: Looking for tips on catching carp? Check out the best carp fishing rigs to help you reel in a big catch at Lyons Gate Fishery!
Rosewall Fishing Lakes (Weymouth)
Rosewall Fishing Lakes is a beautiful fishery located in Osmington, about 6 miles from the seaside town of Weymouth. The fishery is part of a campsite that also offers horse riding, making it a great place for a family getaway.
There are 2 lakes on the complex, Meadow Lake and Wally's Lake. Meadow Lake, at 2.75 acres, is the larger of the two and has 2 islands, which provide some interesting features for anglers. The lake record carp at Meadow Lake is over 25lb. Wally's Lake, while smaller at around 1.5 acres, holds the biggest fish on the complex at over 29lb. Both lakes are well stocked and offer great fishing opportunities for carp anglers of all levels.
Rosewall Fishing Lakes is open for day and night fishing, and day ticket prices start at £10 for 12 hours or £20 for 24 hours. Discounted tickets are available for children, and evening tickets are available during the summer months.
Key Points
- Name: Rosewall Fishing Lakes
- Location: Weymouth, DT3 6HA
- Biggest Carp: 29lb+
- Lake Size: Various
- Price: From £10
- Call: 01305 832 248
If you're planning a fishing trip to South Dorset, be sure to check out Rosewall Fishing Lakes for a peaceful and picturesque fishing experience.
Todber Manor Fisheries (Sturminster Newton)
Located on Manor Farm in Todber, just 5 miles from Sturminster Newton, Todber Manor Fisheries is one of the premier carp fishing complexes in Dorset. With five lakes, Todber Manor offers plenty of options to cater to most carp anglers.
The runs water of the complex, Wadmill Lake, is over 4 acres in size and offers 31 pegs. The lake has a good head of carp, and the lake record is over 30lb. For a detailed review of Wadmill Lake, check out our website.
Opened in 2016, Willow Bank Lake is the newest addition to the complex, and already boasts a lake record of over 30lb. With 10 pegs on one side, the other side of the lake is off-limits to fishing. Read our in-depth review of Willow Bank Lake to learn more.
Little Hayes is stocked with around 700 carp and has a high carp-per-acre ratio. The lake is also home to a number of catfish, with both species exceeding 30lb in weight. Meanwhile, its larger sibling, Big Hayes, has 800 carp and is 8 acres in size. The lake record is a big ghost carp known as "The White Lady," which has been caught at over 40lb. Big Hayes also holds catfish in excess of 40lb and pike in the mid-20lb range.
Paddock Lake is the most popular on the complex, with bookings made months in advance. It's approximately 2 acres in size, has 7 pegs, and holds carp close to the 40lb barrier and catfish exceeding 80lb.
The main site houses Paddock Lake and has a well-stocked tackle shop, permanent toilet block, and shower facilities. The other lakes are located on the opposite side of the road and are serviced by portaloos.
Day tickets start from £12, with 24-hour and weekly tickets also available. However, with the exception of Wadmill Lake, fishing on all other lakes must be paid in full at the time of booking.
Key Points
- Name: Todber Manor Fisheries
- Location: Sturminster Newton, DT10 1JB
- Biggest Carp: 40lb+
- Lake Size: Various
- Price: From £12
- Call: 01258 820 384
Are you looking for other carp fishing lakes in the area? Check out our recommendations for the best carp fishing lakes in Somerset.
Washingpool Farm Fishery (Bridport)
Washingpool Farm Fishery is a serene fishing spot located in Allington, just one mile away from the charming town of Bridport. With its idyllic countryside setting and a relaxed atmosphere, it is a great place to spend a day fishing.
The complex boasts three beautiful lakes, with the main lake being the star attraction for carp anglers. The top and middle lakes are aimed more at pleasure anglers, offering the opportunity to catch a variety of species.
The main lake is one acre in size and has four pegs, including three single pegs and one double peg. Each of the single pegs has a unique name - The Point, The Shallows, and The Boat - and offers its own set of features to test anglers' skills. The double peg is called The Dam/Pipes and provides plenty of space for two anglers to fish together. There is a small island, a raised bar between The Point and The Boat pegs, and several sets of lily pads that the carp like to take cover in.
The lake's depth varies from 3ft at the shallow end to 12ft at the deep end, with an average depth of 5ft at the shallow end and 9ft at the deep end. The lake has a stock of 50 carp, with the average size around mid-double figures and growing quickly. The current lake record is held by a common carp known as "Cut Tail," which weighed just over 21lb.
For those looking for a bite to eat, most of the takeaways in Bridport will deliver to the main gate, so you can enjoy a tasty meal while you wait for your next catch.
Day tickets start at £8 for 12 hours, and 24-hour tickets are available for £16. Night fishing must be booked in advance.
Key Points
- Name: Washingpool Farm Fishery
- Location: Bridport, DT6 5HP
- Biggest Carp: 20lb+
- Lake Size: 1 acre
- Price: From £8
- Contact: 01308 459 549
If you're looking for a peaceful fishing spot in the heart of the Dorset countryside, Washingpool Farm Fishery is definitely worth a visit.
Whitemoor Lakes (Wimborne)
Whitemoor Lakes is a stunning fishery located in Holt, a picturesque village around 7 miles from the charming town of Wimborne in East Dorset. With four tranquil lakes to choose from, anglers of all levels can enjoy a variety of fishing experiences at this peaceful retreat.
The main lake at Whitemoor is where the specimen action happens. At approximately 2 acres in size with 40 pegs, it's no wonder that it's a popular spot for carp anglers. However, it's rare for more than a handful of anglers to be fishing at any time, so you can enjoy a spacious and peaceful fishing experience. The lake's tree-lined banks, lily pads, and islands provide plenty of hotspots for tempting the carp, and the lake record is in excess of 30lb.
Day tickets for Whitemoor Lakes start from just £8, making it an affordable option for carp fishing in East Dorset. Night fishing is also allowed and costs £15, but be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
Key Points
- Name: Whitemoor Lakes
- Location: Holt, 7 miles from Wimborne, BH21 7DA
- Biggest Carp: 30lb+
- Lake Size: 2 acres
- Price: From £8
- Call: 07852 413 638
If you're looking for a peaceful and affordable fishery in Holt, Whitemoor Lakes is a must-visit destination for any carp angler.
Conclusion
Dorset's carp fishing lakes are some of the best in the South West of the UK, offering a variety of experiences for anglers of all levels. Whether you're looking to break your personal best or just enjoy a relaxing day by the water, there's a lake for you. So, grab your gear and head out to one of these top day ticket venues for an unforgettable fishing experience.