Big Hayes at Todber Manor Fisheries

Big Hayes is an 11-acre specimen carp water situated within the Todber Manor Fisheries complex in Dorset. Purpose-built for carp angling, its design reflects a modern understanding of fish habitat and angler access. The lake was excavated and matured to provide a varied underwater environment, moving away from the "bowl" design of older gravel pits. It contains a significant stock of over 1000 carp, establishing its reputation as one of the UK's premier "runs" waters, where multiple catches in a session are not just possible, but expected. The stocking policy focuses on providing consistent action, with a high density of fish primarily in the double-figure to high-twenty bracket. This makes it an ideal venue for anglers seeking to build confidence, test new tactics, or simply enjoy prolific sport. While it is known for action, Big Hayes is not devoid of specimen targets. The lake holds a substantial number of 30lb+ carp and a growing number of 40lb+ fish, with the lake record currently standing in the mid-forties. This dual-stocking profile ensures the venue appeals to a broad spectrum of anglers, from those seeking their first 20lb carp to experienced anglers looking for a "big hit" session.

The lakebed is predominantly clay and gravel, offering clean, hard areas for bait presentation. Anglers will find a wealth of underwater features to target. Two large, centrally located islands are the most prominent features, creating natural patrol routes and holding areas in the surrounding deeper water and along the marginal shelves. Between the islands and the banks, a series of pronounced gravel bars, humps, and deeper silt channels can be located with effective feature-finding techniques. The depths vary, ranging from shallow marginal shelves of 3-4 feet to deeper gullies and holes reaching up to 10 feet. This topography encourages the carp to move throughout the water column and around the lake, meaning no single swim holds a monopoly on the fish. Popular tactics vary with conditions but solid PVA bags cast to showing fish or onto likely spots are a consistent producer. Traditional bottom bait and particle approaches fished over the gravel bars also account for a significant number of captures. In warmer months, zig rigs can be highly effective, as can surface fishing in the calmer, sheltered areas. The 16 purpose-built swims are spacious, well-maintained with woodchip or gravel, and provide excellent water coverage. Access is straightforward, with a perimeter track allowing anglers to park close to their chosen swim, minimising the effort required to transport equipment.