Tar Farm Lake No. 8 - Linear Fisheries

Tar Farm Lake No. 8 is a mature gravel pit situated on the renowned Linear Fisheries complex in Oxfordshire. At approximately 8 acres, it is one of the smaller, more intimate waters available on the site, offering a distinct angling experience compared to the larger, more daunting lakes like St. Johns or Manor Farm. The lake is roughly rectangular with a large, central island that is a key feature for anglers. This island splits the water, creating numerous marginal areas, channels, and patrol routes that the resident carp population frequently uses. The presence of the island means that most swims have obvious features to fish to at a comfortable range, making it an excellent venue for anglers of all abilities, including those less experienced with long-range casting.

The lakebed is typical of a gravel pit, featuring a varied topography of hard gravel bars, deeper silty troughs, and firm clay spots. Depths vary from as shallow as 3 feet in the margins and on top of the bars to a maximum of around 12 feet in the deeper gullies. This variation provides the fish with sanctuary and feeding areas throughout the year, rewarding anglers who take the time to map their swim with a marker float or lead. The margins are well-defined, with some areas featuring overhanging vegetation and reed-lined banks, offering superb stalking and close-range opportunities.

Tar Farm 8 is managed as a high-stock, runs-water. It is populated with a significant number of carp, primarily in the double-figure to low-twenty-pound bracket, with a smaller head of larger fish approaching the 30lb mark. This stocking policy ensures that anglers are likely to receive action, making it a popular choice for those seeking consistent sport rather than solely targeting monster fish. The high density of fish means they are competitive, and a well-presented bait in a promising area is seldom ignored for long.

Tactically, the venue responds to a variety of approaches. Fishing towards the central island is a consistent producer of bites. Casting single hookbaits, solid PVA bags, or small spod mixes to the island's marginal shelf or a visible feature can be highly effective. The gravel bars that run between the bank and the island are also prime patrol routes. Identifying these harder areas and presenting baits on them is a classic and successful gravel pit tactic. During warmer months, surface fishing can be prolific, especially in the calmer, sheltered areas around the lake. Due to the stock density, applying a bed of good-quality boilies, pellets, and particles can hold fish in the swim for extended periods, leading to multiple captures. However, a more subtle approach with single hookbaits can often single out the larger, more cautious residents. The water is generally clear, so attention to rig concealment and line lay is advantageous. It is a venue that rewards accurate, thoughtful angling but is forgiving enough to provide plenty of action for all.