The Reservoir at Berners Hall Fishery

The Reservoir at Berners Hall is a 24-acre mature gravel pit, originally excavated for gravel and later serving as a local water store, hence its name. Located within the Essex countryside, it has been sculpted into a premier specimen carp water. The lake's topography is complex and varied, a direct result of its industrial past. Anglers will find a multitude of underwater features to target, including prominent gravel bars, deep silt channels, plateaus, and sharp drop-offs. The depths are inconsistent, ranging from shallow marginal shelves of 3-4 feet to deeper holes plunging to over 14 feet. This variation provides diverse habitats for the carp and challenges for the angler, demanding thorough watercraft and feature-finding skills. The lake contains two large, centrally located islands which are significant features, creating channels and patrol routes that concentrate fish movement. These islands, along with extensive reed beds and lily pads in certain areas, offer excellent marginal and mid-water targets.

The venue is designed for the serious carp angler. There are 18 designated swims, strategically placed to provide each angler with a substantial amount of water. Swims are large, well-constructed with wood chips, and can comfortably accommodate modern bivvies and equipment for long sessions. Access to most swims is good, with a perimeter track allowing for barrowing gear, though some swims require a longer walk. The environment is managed to maintain a natural aesthetic, with mature trees and bankside vegetation providing cover and a sense of seclusion. The water is generally clear, a typical characteristic of a mature gravel pit, allowing for effective visual spotting of fish in the margins and shallower areas during favourable conditions. Due to its size, the lake is susceptible to wind, and a strong prevailing south-westerly can significantly influence fish location. Anglers who can adapt to changing conditions and are proficient in long-range casting will often have an advantage, as fish can hold at ranges exceeding 100 yards. However, the complex marginal areas should not be ignored, as they frequently produce some of the lake's largest residents. The Reservoir is not a runs water; it is a challenging venue where each capture is earned. It is best suited to the intermediate or advanced angler, particularly the specimen hunter or campaign angler prepared to invest time and effort to unlock its potential and target its notable stock of large carp.