Frisby Lakes Fishery

Frisby Lakes is a mature, 48-acre former gravel pit located in the Leicestershire countryside. Carved from the landscape by aggregate extraction, the lake has evolved into a significant and challenging carp water, renowned for its clear water and historic, characterful residents. The topography is complex, a direct result of its industrial past. Anglers are presented with a vast underwater landscape of features, including prominent gravel bars that rise from the depths, expansive plateaus, deep gullies, and large areas of silt. Depths are inconsistent, ranging from shallow marginal shelves of 4-5 feet to deeper holes plunging to 16 feet, demanding a thoughtful approach with a marker rod or Deeper to unlock its secrets.

The water clarity can be exceptional, often described as 'gin-clear', particularly outside of algal blooms. This clarity makes the carp wary and presents a unique challenge, often favouring subtle presentations and impeccable line lay. During the warmer months, the lake sees significant weed growth. While this can present angling challenges, the weed beds are a vital part of the ecosystem, providing a rich natural larder and sanctuary for the carp. The most successful anglers learn to fish in and around these weed beds, finding the clearer, harder spots on the gravel bars and plateaus where the fish regularly patrol and feed.

The lake’s atmosphere is one of tranquility and wildness, a stark contrast to more commercial, heavily-stocked venues. It is not a runs water; it is a venue for the thinking angler, the specimen hunter, and those willing to invest time and effort to outwit its old, wise inhabitants. The carp stock is not dense, but the rewards are significant. The fish are known for their dark colouration, unique scale patterns, and sheer size, with many of the original fish still thriving. Landing a carp from Frisby is a noteworthy achievement, a testament to watercraft and perseverance. The swims are strategically placed around the perimeter, offering each angler a generous amount of water to command. The natural, untamed feel of the banks, combined with the sheer size of the water, provides a sense of seclusion and a true campaign-style fishing experience.