Wraysbury 1 - RK Leisure

Wraysbury 1 is a historic, mature gravel pit of approximately 120 acres located in Berkshire. Formed from gravel extraction that ceased in the mid-20th century, the venue has become one of the most iconic big carp waters in the United Kingdom. Its history is deeply woven into the fabric of modern carp angling, most notably from its time as part of the Horton complex, when it produced legendary fish such as Mary and Mary’s Mate, captures that defined an era of specimen hunting. In 2013, the water came under the management of RK Leisure, who have since continued its legacy as a premier, low-stock big fish venue.

The lake itself is a vast, open, and often windswept environment, presenting a significant challenge to even the most experienced anglers. Its topography is complex and varied, a direct result of its quarrying past. The lake bed is a network of gravel bars, deep gullies, silty depressions, and expansive plateaus. Depths range from shallow margins of a few feet to over 40 feet in the central basin. The water is typically very clear, allowing for prolific weed growth through the warmer months. Dense beds of Canadian Pondweed, milfoil, and silkweed can become a major feature, offering natural larders for the carp but posing a significant obstacle for anglers. Effective angling often requires the use of a boat for precise feature-finding, bait application, and safely landing fish from within these weedbeds.