Broadlands Main Lake - 26-Acre River Test Fed Carp Fishery in Hampshire

Broadlands Main Lake stands as one of Hampshire's premier carp fishing destinations, offering anglers a truly exceptional fishing experience on a mature 26-acre venue fed directly by the famous chalk stream waters of the River Test. This well-established fishery has built an impressive reputation over the years for consistently producing spectacular catches and providing an ideal environment for both big-hit anglers seeking action-packed sessions and specimen hunters pursuing personal bests.

The lake's extraordinary productivity is evident in the remarkable catch statistics, with over 4,000 double-figure carp landed in a single year, including more than 500 fish exceeding the magical 20-pound barrier. This exceptional catch rate makes Broadlands one of the most prolific carp waters in the South of England, offering genuine opportunities for multiple fish sessions while maintaining the excitement of targeting truly special specimens. The impressive stock includes carp to 39 pounds, with a healthy population of twenties and thirties that provide regular chances of specimen fish throughout the season.

Being fed by the renowned River Test, the lake benefits from the rich, naturally oxygenated chalk stream water that creates an incredibly productive environment supporting abundant natural food sources and lush weed growth. The underwater topography showcases classic gravel pit characteristics with central islands offering medium-range opportunities, extensive marginal overhangs perfect for stalking approaches, well-defined bars and gullies creating natural holding areas, and established weed beds and pad areas providing excellent cover and feeding zones throughout the warmer months.

The venue's layout provides approximately 35 strategically positioned swims around the lake's perimeter, each offering unique fishing opportunities and access to different features. Water depths range from shallow marginal areas of just 1 foot to deeper channels exceeding 10 feet, creating diverse habitat zones that hold fish throughout the year. The combination of islands, bays, channels, and varied depth contours ensures anglers can employ a wide range of tactics from close-range margin fishing to medium and long-range approaches targeting open water areas.

What sets Broadlands apart from many commercial fisheries is its exceptional on-site facilities and family-run atmosphere. The venue operates a well-stocked tackle shop providing essential tackle and baits, a licensed clubhouse offering a full food menu, comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi access, and Sky TV for relaxation between sessions. The presence of proper toilet and shower facilities, ample secure parking, and the overall high standard of amenities makes this an ideal venue for comfortable longer sessions without sacrificing the fishing experience.