A tranquil lake surrounded by trees.

Mallard Pool (Bugley Pools): Dorset's Prolific Carp Runs Water

Bugley Pools

About This Venue

Mallard Pool, part of the Bugley Pools complex, is a purpose-dug coarse and carp fishing lake located in the tranquil Dorset countryside. At approximately 1.5 acres, it is the smallest and most accessible of the three lakes on site, specifically designed to provide consistent action for anglers of all abilities. The lake is roughly rectangular with a prominent central island that serves as the primary feature, reachable from most of the six purpose-built, all-weather swims. The island's margins and the surrounding shelf are key patrol routes for the resident carp. Depths are manageable, averaging between 4 to 6 feet, with some slightly deeper areas found in open water. The lakebed is predominantly clay and silt, making it ideal for presenting a variety of rigs. Marginal features are abundant, with established reed beds and overhanging vegetation providing excellent cover for carp, particularly during the warmer months. These areas are prime spots for stalking or placing a subtle trap.

Mallard Pool is heavily stocked, earning it a reputation as a 'runs water'. The primary target is carp, with a large head of fish ranging from high single figures to upper doubles. A significant number of 20lb+ carp are present, with the lake record currently standing just shy of the 30lb mark. This high stock density ensures that bites are common, making it an excellent venue for beginners looking to build confidence, experienced anglers wanting to test new tactics, or anyone simply seeking a productive and enjoyable session. Due to the stocking level, small, regular applications of bait are highly effective. Solid PVA bags, small boilies, corn, and pellets are proven tactics. In summer, zig rigs can be exceptionally productive in the open water, while simple bottom bait rigs cast towards the island or into the margins will produce year-round. The water is well-aerated and managed, maintaining a healthy environment for the fish stock. Access to the swims is excellent, with a dedicated car park located a short, flat walk from the lake, making it easy to transport tackle.

Quick Facts

Lake Name

Mallard Pool

Type

Day Ticket

Established

None

Size

1.5 acres

Swims

6

Average Depth

4-6ft

Total Stock

150 carp

Average Weight

15lb

πŸ“ Location

Address:
Bugley
Gillingham, Dorset
SP8 5PQ
UK

Google Maps: View on Google Maps

What3Words: https://w3w.co/regress.doted.witty

Region: South West

Nearest Motorway: A303 (Approx. 2 miles)

πŸ“ž Contact

Phone: 07799 434914

Bailiff: 07799 434914

Email: None

Website: https://www.gocatch.fish/profile/bugley-pools

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bugleypools

πŸ’° Pricing

🎣 Day Tickets

  • 1-3 Rods: Β£15

⏰ Sessions

  • 12 Hour: Β£15
  • 24 Hour: Β£30
  • 48 Hour: Β£60
  • Concessions:

πŸ’³ Payment & Info

  • Payment Methods: Card
  • Currency: GBP
  • Last Updated: 23-05-2024
  • Special Offer: Prices are for up to two rods. Exclusive lake booking is available.

πŸ“… Booking Information

Booking Policy

  • Advanced Booking: true
  • Exclusive Bookings: true

Opening Times

  • Hours: Gates open 7am. Gates are locked at 7pm or dusk, whichever is earlier.
  • Maximum Stay: None

🐟 Stock Information

πŸ“Š Stock Breakdown

  • Total Carp: 150
  • Doubles: 100
  • Twenties: 40
  • Thirties: 1
  • Forties: Unknown

🐠 Other Species

  • Bream: true
  • Pike: false
  • Tench: true
  • Silvers: true

πŸ—ΊοΈ Lake Features

Topography

Silt and clay bottom with a gradual slope to the central island.

Natural Features

Underwater Features

  • Depth range: 3ft - 7ft

Weed Information

  • Weed Present: true

ℹ️ Additional Information

Access & Swims

  • Access: Excellent. Flat access from the car park to all swims. Short barrow push.
  • Disabled Swims: false
  • Double Swims: false
  • Adjacent Swims: true

Angler Information

  • Suitable for: beginner, big hit angler, day session angler, intermediate, overnighter, social angler, stalker
  • Difficulty: 1 runs water
  • Gates Locked: Yes
  • Drinking Water: no

🏒 Facilities

βœ“ Toilets
βœ— Showers
βœ— Tackle Shop
βœ— Food On-site
βœ“ Takeaway
8 Security /10
6 Mobile /10
βœ— WiFi
βœ— Electric

πŸ“‹ Rules & Regulations

General Rules

All bookings must be made online. No visitors, only paying anglers allowed on site. No dogs. No unattended rods.

Conduct

Respect other anglers. No excessive noise, radios, or shouting. Take all litter home, including cigarette ends. No fires, no BBQs.

Fish Care

Minimum 42" landing net. Large, well-padded unhooking mat or cradle is compulsory. Fish to be retained for no longer than 15 minutes for weighing and photography. All fish must be returned to the water as soon as possible. No keepnets or sacks. Use of carp care kits is mandatory.

Tackle & Rigs

Barbless or micro-barbed hooks only. No fixed leads; lead clips, helicopter setups, and running rigs are permitted. No leadcore leaders. Tubing or safezone leaders must be used. Minimum 15lb mainline. No braided mainline.

Compliance

Failure to comply with the rules will result in being asked to leave without a refund. The owner reserves the right to inspect rigs and equipment. Anglers fish at their own risk.

Bait Rules

No nuts of any kind. Particles must be properly prepared. No excessive pre-baiting.

Vehicle Rules

All vehicles to be left in the main car park. Do not drive around the lakes.

πŸ¦† Wildlife & Nuisances

βœ“ Otters (Fenced)
βœ“ Seagulls
βœ“ Tufted Ducks
βœ“ Mallard Ducks
βœ“ Swans
βœ“ Geese
βœ— Crayfish

Tags

day ticket exclusive booking acres 1 4 swims 1 9 uk dorset beginner runs water twenties high stock islands reeds otter fenced

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