Sandhurst Lake

Sandhurst Lake is a mature, 14-acre gravel pit located in the historic Yateley complex, a region synonymous with specimen carp angling in the UK. The venue is not a runs water; it presents a significant challenge that rewards technical skill, watercraft, and dedication. Its reputation is built on the size and quality of its stock, which includes a notable number of carp exceeding 30lbs and a significant head of 40lb fish, making it a premier destination for serious specimen hunters.

The lakebed is a classic gravel pit topography, rich with features that provide varied angling situations. Anglers will find an array of gravel bars, deep silt channels, plateaus, and pronounced marginal shelves. Depths range from shallow 2-foot margins to deeper holes of up to 14 feet, demanding a thorough approach with a marker float or leading around to pinpoint feeding spots. The water is typically clear, a common characteristic of mature gravel pits, which makes fish location possible but also necessitates a stealthy approach.

Weed growth can be significant during the warmer months, with Canadian pondweed and milfoil being prevalent. While this presents a challenge, the weed also provides a rich natural larder for the carp, contributing to their impressive growth rates. The ability to fish effectively in and around weed beds is a critical skill for success at Sandhurst. The lake features several islands that create natural patrol routes and holding areas for the carp. These, along with extensive reed beds and overhanging trees in the margins, provide ample features to target.