Church Lake - Horton

Church Lake is the flagship water of the Horton complex, managed by RK Leisure since their acquisition in 2012. This 15-acre former gravel pit in the Colne Valley is steeped in big fish history and holds one of the most impressive stocks of specimen carp in the UK, with at least five different fish having exceeded the 50lb barrier.

The lake is home to a roster of famous named fish that are the targets of dedicated campaign anglers from across the country. Notable current residents include Bungle, Zippo, Roger The Dodger, Scar, Guzzler, Fingers (caught at 52lb 14oz), Leachys, and Gizmo. Historical legends such as Shoulders, Jack and Woodcarving are no longer in the water. At least five different fish have exceeded the 50lb barrier, making Church Lake one of the most prolific big fish waters in Britain.

The rod-caught mirror record is held by Fingers at 52lb 14oz, caught by Simon Kenny. Grass carp are also present, with Martin Bowler landing one at 52lb 10oz in 2016, an unofficial British record. Leachys Common has topped 50lb to become the largest common on the entire Horton complex. Many of the residents are old, dark, and heavily scaled originals transferred from other legendary Colne Valley waters including Longfield, Moor Lane, and Yeoveney.

The underwater topography is varied, with gravel bars, plateaus, deep silty areas reaching almost 20ft, and a large island providing numerous features to target. Lily pads, reeds, snags, and extensive weed growth (including milfoil and Canadian pondweed) make this a technically demanding water, particularly during the summer months. Named pegs include Salt Circle, Scooter, Dog Bay, The Lawns, Alders and Carpets, and angler numbers are tightly controlled to keep pressure on the stock extremely low.

This is a serious specimen water with a difficulty rating to match. Blank sessions are common, and success often comes to those who are willing to put in the time and effort to learn the lake. Access is via RK Leisure season ticket membership only — there are no day tickets. Barbed hooks are mandatory (not barbless), with a minimum mainline of 15lb and no bait boats permitted. The emphasis is firmly on maintaining the highest standards of fish care and angling conduct.