Stoneacres - Linch Hill Fishery

Stoneacres is the crown jewel of the Linch Hill Fishery complex. Spanning approximately 70 acres, this former gravel pit is renowned throughout the UK carp fishing scene for its unique challenges and extraordinary rewards. The lake's defining characteristic is its water clarity; for much of the year, it is exceptionally clear, allowing anglers to see the bottom in depths of over 15 feet. This clarity makes the carp incredibly wary and rig-shy, demanding a high level of watercraft, stealth, and technical precision from those who wish to succeed. It is not a runs water; it is a serious specimen hunting venue where a single bite can be the prize for days of effort.

The topography of Stoneacres is complex and varied, a direct result of its quarrying past. The lakebed is a mosaic of features, including substantial gravel bars, deep gullies, silty channels, and raised plateaus that rise sharply from the surrounding depths. Depths range from shallow marginal shelves of 2-3 feet to deep holes plunging to over 20 feet. The extensive weed growth is another significant factor. Dense beds of Canadian Pondweed and other aquatic vegetation flourish in the clear water, providing the carp with vast larders of natural food and secure sanctuaries. These weed beds are a primary holding area for the fish, but they also present a significant obstacle to angling, requiring strong tackle, safe rig mechanics, and often the use of a boat for accurate bait placement and landing fish. The swims are strategically placed, offering access to a multitude of features, including several islands and snaggy, tree-lined margins. Due to the size of the water and the nomadic nature of the carp, mobility is often a key to success. Anglers who are willing to move swims to stay on the fish will significantly increase their chances. Stoneacres is home to some of the most sought-after carp in the country, famed for their size, lineage, and visual appeal. The stock is relatively low for the water's size, but the quality is exceptional, with a very high average weight. The lake holds a significant number of fish over 40lb and a good head of 50lb+ specimens. Catching one of these historic residents is considered a pinnacle achievement in UK carp angling. It is a venue for the dedicated, the patient, and the thinking angler. Success requires effort, observation, and an adaptive approach. It is a campaign water in the truest sense, rewarding those who invest the time to unlock its secrets.