Thorpe Lea is an 18-acre, mature gravel pit renowned for its prolific carp stock. The venue is engineered for action. Its primary characteristic is the sheer density of fish, making it one of the UK's most consistent day-ticket runs waters. Anglers should not expect solitude; the fishery is popular and can be busy, reflecting its reputation for producing bites.
The lakebed is predominantly clean gravel, a direct result of its quarrying origins. This firm substrate is interspersed with features such as distinct gravel bars, silt pockets, and subtle depth variations. A prominent central island is a key feature, accessible from multiple swims and creating patrol routes and holding areas for the carp. The water is typically gin-clear, demanding a considered approach to line concealment and rig presentation. Depths are relatively uniform, averaging between 8 and 10 feet, with deeper areas reaching down to approximately 14 feet. This consistency allows most tactics to be effective across the lake. There is minimal significant weed growth, simplifying presentation for anglers. The high stock density means the carp are competitive feeders. They respond well to a variety of tactics, from solid PVA bags cast to showing fish, to spod mixes applied over chosen spots, and zig rigs used to intercept cruising fish in the upper layers. The carp, primarily commons and mirrors, are known for being hard-fighting, a result of the high-oxygen, clear water and their competitive nature. The venue's proximity to Heathrow Airport is a notable environmental factor; aircraft noise is constant and anglers must be prepared for this. The swims are purpose-built, flat, and well-maintained, constructed from wood chippings or gravel, providing stable platforms for bivvies and equipment. The lake’s oval shape and the placement of 58 swims mean that angling pressure is a constant consideration. Watercraft and accurate casting are essential to manage pressure from neighbouring anglers and to effectively target features or showing fish.
Thorpe Lea
Day Ticket
2001
18 acres
58
8-10ft
2500 carp
15-18lb
Address:
Thorpe Lea Road
Egham, Surrey
TW20 8PS
UK
Google Maps: View on Google Maps
What3Words: https://w3w.co/pets.solar.press
Region: South East
Nearest Motorway: M25, J13 (1 mile)
Phone: 07934000003
Bailiff: 07934000003
Email: info@thorpeleafishery.co.uk
Website: https://www.thorpeleafishery.co.uk/
Excavated gravel pit. Predominantly flat bottom with gravel bars, plateaus, and silt patches. Uniform depth profile.
A full, current list of rules must be obtained from the fishery's official website or on-site notice board. Key rules are strictly enforced.
No excessive alcohol. No loud music or shouting. Respect other anglers. All litter must be taken home.
Minimum 42-inch landing net. Large, thick-padded unhooking mats (minimum 40mm foam) with a retaining wall are mandatory. Fish must be kept wet. No sacking of fish. Use of carp care kits is compulsory.
No leaders of any kind (including lead-free and fluorocarbon). Tubing or safe-zone leaders only. Barbless or micro-barbed hooks only. No fixed leads. No braided mainline (except on marker/spod rods). Minimum 15lb mainline.
Bailiffs will perform regular rig and rule checks. Anglers found breaking rules will be asked to leave without a refund.
No nuts, plastic, or foam baits. Only particles prepared by recognised suppliers are allowed. No excessive pre-baiting. Maggots are permitted in moderation.
Vehicles must be parked in the designated car park. No driving on the grass.