Elsons Lake - Stanwick Lakes Fisheries

Elsons Lake is widely regarded as the most challenging and rewarding water on the Stanwick Lakes Fisheries complex in Northamptonshire. This 6-acre lake offers a step up in difficulty from the other waters on the complex, attracting intermediate and specimen-level anglers who appreciate its tactical depth and the quality of the fish it produces.

The lake features a wealth of underwater structure, including several islands, gravel bars, marginal shelves, and deep holes. Lily pads populate the bays during summer, and overhanging trees add snaggy areas that hold fish, particularly in the warmer months. Canadian pondweed is present at moderate levels, adding an extra consideration during the growing season.

Elsons holds around 165 carp with a strong specimen stock — around 140 over 20lb, at least 20 different thirties, and around 5 different fish that have exceeded 40lb. It is a specimen lake rather than a runs water, with the emphasis firmly on quality. The lake record is held by a fish known as Scar at 41lb 9oz, making Elsons a genuine big fish water and a realistic prospect for a personal best for many visiting anglers.

The lake offers 15 pegs, including 2 double swims for pairs of anglers, with a maximum of 12 anglers fishing at any one time. Unlike Swan Lake on the same complex, booking is recommended for Elsons to secure a peg. The fishery operates a booking-based system with a per-night booking fee. Both cash and card payments are accepted and the lake offers 24-hour access.

Elsons Lake sits just off the A45 between Wellingborough and Thrapston, making it accessible from across the East Midlands. Facilities include toilets, a small on-site tackle shop, and drinking water. For anglers who have outgrown the easier waters on the complex and are looking for a more rewarding challenge, Elsons Lake is the natural progression.