Where are the Best Fishing Lakes in Hertfordshire?

Nestled in the heart of England, Hertfordshire may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of fishing destinations. However, this charming county is home to an array of picturesque lakes and reservoirs that offer fantastic angling opportunities for fishing enthusiasts of all levels. From tranquil waters teeming with fish to serene natural surroundings, Hertfordshire’s fishing lakes are a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to explore some of the best fishing lakes in Hertfordshire, each offering its own unique charm and abundance of fish species. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice looking to cast your line for the first time, these idyllic lakes are sure to provide a memorable fishing experience.

Full List: Top Fishing Lakes in Hertfordshire 🐠👨‍🎣

Read on to discover the best fishing lakes in Hertfordshire, as written by a local. Please note that these fishing spots are described in no particular order, they are all equally epic spots!

1. Holwell Court Lake  

Holwell Court Lake is a well established coarse fishery with a great selection of mixed stocks.

This is an estate coarse fishery with tons of fish to catch, but the carp are apparent. You can find them zipping around the surface in the summer months. Most anglers report significant success at this fishing lake in Hertfordshire, suggesting these waters are easy. However, I can assure you that there is plenty of fight in these fish!

Good to know:

• Welwyn Garden City Angling Club is members only (so no day tickets here). The Club cares a lot about Holwell Court and maintains it very well.
• There is parking access through a combination locked gate.
• This fishing lake in Hertfordshire is situated on the outskirts of Welwyn Garden City Town Centre, just off the A414 Hertford Road.
• The Lake is stocked with carp to 26lb, Catfish to 45lb, Bream to 10lb, Roach, Rudd, Tench and Perch.
• Fishing tip: Strawberry mini-boilies are popular for the carp, with loose pellets and luncheon meat seems like the best tactic to land the big catfish!

2. Bowyers Lake

This Fishing Lake in Hertfordshire is 35 acres and the oldest gravel pit in the Lee Valley Park. Featuring islands, gravel bars, plateaus, and lily pad beds, the scenery is both epic and promising.

These waters can be tricky but the well-maintained banks and abundance of carp make it clear why anglers are drawn here.

Good to know:

• Bowyers Water operates as a limited permit fishery, accommodating 50 anglers with day, night, and season tickets only. Currently, there is a waiting list for access.
• The carp population in Bowyers Water boasts impressive sizes, with several specimens exceeding 40 pounds and a good number weighing over 30 pounds, all originating from the 2006 stock. Additionally, sizable tench and pike can also be found in these waters.
• In terms of tactics, anglers often target underwater features where fish tend to congregate, such as the islands, deep spots, and clear areas near the weeds. Modern carp rigs and baits are effective, with boilies scattered over the weeds proving fruitful.
• It’s important to note that there is a three-rod limit per angler.
• As for parking, Bowyers Water provides a parking lot, although it is relatively small. Anglers can purchase a security key along with their permit for added convenience.

3. Turnford Complex Railway Pit  

Turnford Complex Railway Pit is approximately five acres in size and serves primarily as a Carp lake. This is one of the best fishing lakes in Hertfordshire, boasting an impressive population of carp, with specimens exceeding 40lbs, complemented by a significant number of 20lb and 30lb fish.

Thanks to an ongoing stocking program initiated several years ago, the fishing quality has consistently improved, resulting in an increase in average weights.

Good to know:

• Surrounding the lake are 19 purpose-built bivvy swims, offering ample space and comfort for anglers.
• Exploring the lake with a marker float or engaging in conversations with regulars is a good idea as there are several bars and weed beds to discover.
• This Railway Pit offers more than just carp fishing. It’s also home to a variety of other species, including bream and tench weighing over 10lbs, as well as abundant roach, rudd, and perch. Additionally, the presence of sizable pike adds to the diversity of angling opportunities available here.
• There is a locked, members-only car park.

4. Amwell Lakes

When it comes to fishing lakes in Hertfordshire, Amwell Lakes offer anglers a diverse and rewarding experience. Spread across several lakes, these waters provide opportunities to target various species in a picturesque setting.

Carp fishing is particularly popular here, with specimens reaching impressive sizes, including fish exceeding 40 pounds. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Amwell Lakes provide ample opportunities for an enjoyable day of fishing amidst the natural beauty of Hertfordshire.

Good to know:

• In addition to carp, anglers can target bream, tench, roach, perch, and pike, among other species, which offers a well-rounded fishing experience.
• The lakes are well-maintained, with purpose-built swims ensuring comfort and convenience for anglers.
• Amwell Lakes prides itself on being a members only Carp Fishery.

5. Brooke Lane Carthagena Fishery

Brooke Lane Carthagena Fishery is one of the best fishing lakes in Hertfordshire, offering a peaceful and rewarding fishing experience in the heart of the countryside.

With well-stocked lakes and ponds, anglers can target a variety of species, including carp, tench, bream, roach, and perch.

The fishery is known for its impressive carp specimens, with fish reaching substantial sizes, providing exciting challenges for anglers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned angler seeking a new challenge or a beginner looking to hone your skills, Brooke Lane Carthagena Fishery provides an idyllic setting for a memorable day of fishing in Hertfordshire.

Good to know:

• Spanning across 5 acres, this fishery boasts a stock of approximately 200+ carp, with the largest specimen tipping the scales at over 35lb+.
• This Hertfordshire fishery is well-maintained and carefully managed to ensure optimal fishing conditions, with designated swims offering comfort and convenience. There are a total of 14 swims, including 4 doubles large enough to accommodate two anglers comfortably.
• Originally known as Heartbreak Pit, Brooke Lake is one of the oldest gravel pits in Hertfordshire. Its diverse features, including reedy fringes, lily pads, gravel bars, silt channels, and depths ranging from 8 to 13 feet, make it a haven for carp anglers.
• Brooke Lake is an ideal venue for honing angling skills, with exceptional response to surface baits during the summer months and consistent performance with standard bottom bait techniques year-round.
• With each passing year, the fish show excellent growth rates, indicating a potential increase in average weight.

6. Stanborough Lakes

Stanborough Lakes is a popular and well-established fishing destination in Hertfordshire renowned for its tranquil setting and excellent fishing opportunities.

Spanning over 126 acres, the lakes comprise two main bodies of water, offering a diverse range of fishing experiences for anglers of all abilities. The lake has had many improvements recently with the introduction of new platforms on the Lake and River.

Stocked with a variety of fish species, including carp, bream, tench, and roach, Stanborough Lakes provides ample opportunities for both coarse and specimen fishing.

Good to know:

• This epic fishing lake is located in Welwyn Garden City on the outskirts of town, close to the A1(M) and still within walking distance to the town centre.
• The lake is controlled by Welwyn Garden City Angling Club.
• There are a few pole only and disabled-friendly pegs by the shop.
• Day ticket and night fishing is allowed. Night fishing must be pre booked with the head bailiff (Including members).
• Parking is also available here.

7. Aldenham Country Park

Aldenham Country Park is a hidden gem tucked away amidst lush woodlands and rolling countryside. The park’s picturesque reservoir, Aldenham Reservoir, is a haven for anglers seeking peaceful surroundings and abundant fish stocks.

With carp weighing up to 30lbs, as well as roach, perch, and pike, there’s plenty to keep anglers of all levels entertained.

Good to know:

• The lake is currently for members only and measures an estimated 65 acres.
• Swims operate on a first-come, first-service basis.
• Tench at this fishing lake in Hertfordshire range up to 6 pounds, while carp can exceed 40 pounds. Pike can be above 30 pounds and roach hit about a pound. There’s hybrids over 6 pounds as well as bream over 14 pounds in these waters.
• There are limited spots in the car park, so plan ahead. Anyone dropping off supplies to anglers already on the lake have a 20 minute time limit.
• Warning: The south bay at Aldenham is a nature reserve and off-limits for fishing. Any anglers found in this area will be banned for life.

8. Smallford Pits

Tucked away in the countryside near St Albans, Smallford Pits is one of the top fishing lakes in Hertfordshire. It’s a true hidden gem that’s cherished by local anglers for its peaceful vibe and excellent fishing prospects.

This former gravel pit complex comprises several interconnected lakes, offering a variety of fishing experiences for anglers of all preferences. Whether you prefer float fishing for roach and perch or carp fishing for specimen-sized catches, Smallford Pits has something for everyone.

Good to know:

• There’s secure parking on location.
• The diverse terrain of this fishing lake in Hertfordshire features gullies, gravel bars, plateaus, and silt beds, providing an epic fishing experience. Additionally, a central island adds to the lake’s appeal.
• As for the fish population, Smallford boasts carp exceeding 30 pounds, bream weighing up to 10 pounds, pike reaching 15 pounds, perch up to 3 pounds, tench over 10 pounds, roach up to 2 pounds, and rudd up to a pound.

9. Stocker’s Lake

Located within the Rickmansworth Aquadrome, Stocker’s Lake is a tranquil oasis nestled amidst scenic parkland and nature reserves.

This 90 acre lake is renowned for its diverse ecosystem and rich biodiversity, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and anglers alike.

Stocker’s Lake is one of the top fishing lakes in Hertfordshire as it’s home to an abundance of fish species, including carp, tench, bream, and perch, providing anglers with ample opportunities to reel in their next big catch!

Good to know:

• This fishing lake is members only and a designated Nature Reserve that’s managed by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, with the water regularly bailiffed.
• Fishing is allowed from the numbered swims only, no fishing from any of the islands is permitted.
• Night fishing is not allowed. Neither are tents (umbrella based shelters only).
• Current Environmental Agency rod limits are in force on this water (max 4 rods) and dip tanks are in place at the fishery.

10. Stanstead Abbots

Fishing at Stanstead Abbots promises an epic adventure for anglers of all levels. This renowned fishing lake in Hertfordshire offers a picturesque setting along the riverbanks, providing an idyllic backdrop for a day of angling.

With its diverse range of species, including carp, bream, pike, perch, tench, roach, and rudd, there’s always something exciting to catch here. Whether you’re a seasoned angler seeking a new challenge or a novice eager to learn the ropes, Stanstead Abbots offers an unforgettable fishing excursion in Hertfordshire.

Good to know:

• Stanstead Abbots is just over 2 acres and offers 36 comfortable and well-placed swims, one being designated for disabled anglers. In terms of depth, the lake varies from 5ft – 18ft.
• This is a members’ only water. There’s no night fishing allowed and there are some bait bans.
• No day tickets and no guests or visitors are allowed here.

11. Shepherds Way  

Shepherds Way is one of the top fishing lakes in Hertfordshire for anglers seeking thrilling adventures on the water.

Nestled amidst stunning natural surroundings, this fishing spot boasts peaceful lakes and tranquil waters, providing the perfect setting for a memorable angling experience at any time of the year.

With its diverse array of fish species, including carp, bream, pike, perch, tench, roach, and rudd, anglers of all levels are bound to find their perfect catch here. The lake has a prolific head of Carp ranging from 2lb to 25lb, Roach average between 12oz and a 1lb with larger fish not uncommon here.

The abundance of underwater features such as gullies, gravel bars, plateaus, and silt sites adds an exciting dimension to fishing, promising plenty of action and opportunities to test your skills.

Whether you’re casting your line from the banks or exploring the depths from a boat, Shepherds Way offers an exhilarating fishing adventure that will leave you hooked for more!

Good to know:

• Fishing is allowed only from the permanent numbered pegs.
• Using keepnets is banned on this water, except where an organised club match is taking place.
• Barbless hooks only with a maximum size 10.
• No guest tickets before October 1st or for junior members at any time.
• Only one rod per member to be used at any one time.
• The full duration any angler can be on the water is 24 hours with no return within a calendar week.

12. Admirals Walk  

Admirals Walk spans across 25 acres of serene open gravel pit terrain, boasting natural banks and casual fishing spots. Beneath its tranquil surface lie a range of underwater features, including gravel bars, gullies, and dense submerged weed beds, providing an ideal habitat for its diverse aquatic inhabitants.

While Pike once dominated these waters, the spotlight has shifted to the specimen Carp, ranging from 10 to an impressive 40 pounds and beyond. Additionally, anglers can target Tench, Bream, and Eels, adding to the variety of potential catches.

Good to know:

• Employing standard Carp fishing tactics is recommended, with a focus on minimising disturbance and regular baiting for the best results.
• Keep in mind that crayfish inhabit these waters, necessitating the use of air-dried and imitation baits to evade their attention.
• Fishing at Admirals Walk is permitted from dawn to dusk only, with restrictions on bait fishing for Pike during specific seasons and a maximum of three rods per angler.
• Although night fishing and day tickets are unavailable, permit holders can enjoy the peaceful vibe of this day-only fishing lake in Hertfordshire.
• While navigating the lake’s perimeter may pose challenges due to water accumulation, muddy terrain, and uneven surfaces, the rewarding angling experience at Admirals Walk makes it well worth the effort.
• Formal parking arrangements are not provided on-site, so arranging drop-off and pick-up is advisable for convenient access to this angler’s paradise.

13. Kings Weir Fishery  

Kings Weir Fishery is a family-operated coarse fishery nestled along the picturesque River Lea, renowned for its impressive-sized Barbel, Chub, and Bream.

Anglers from far and wide are attracted to this historic fishing lake in Herfordshire, eager to reel in the abundant populations of Dace, Roach, Pike, European Eel, and Gudgeon.

Whether you prefer fishing the Weir pool or exploring “The Members Section” downstream, there’s no shortage of angling opportunities here.

Additionally, anglers can enjoy stillwater fishing at the nearby Holyfield/Langridge Lake, where specimen-sized Tench, Carp, Perch, Bream, and Pike await.

Good to know:

• Recent upgrades have enhanced security measures here, including a card entry system for the car park and members, as well as CCTV surveillance throughout the fishery, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all visitors.
• Convenient onsite toilet facilities are available for added comfort and convenience here.
• To fish this venue you must contact in advance (01992-468394 or 07398 160623) to book a swim.
• This is a small fishery with 9 swims in total.

14. Batchworth Lake  

Batchworth Lake offers an epic fishing experience in Hertfordshire, as it’s particularly renowned for its diverse range of fish species, including carp, tench, roach, rudd, perch, and pike.

With its expansive water body covering several acres, Batchworth Lake provides ample opportunities for anglers to explore different fishing spots and tactics. Whether you’re targeting specimen-sized carp or enjoying a leisurely day catching roach and rudd, this lake promises excitement and adventure for all.

The peaceful vibe, coupled with the thrill of landing prized catches, makes Batchworth Lake a must-visit destination for any fishing enthusiast in Hertfordshire.

Good to know:

• There’s around 35 swims and additional areas here that enable margin and stalking tactics to be used by the mobile angler. Note: The most popular swims tend to be those by the islands.
• This fishing lake in Hertfordshire is without a doubt one of the finest specimen lakes in the Colne Valley, with carp just under 40 pounds caught on a regular basis, bream to 15 pounds and tench to over 10 pounds being caught on a variety of methods.
• Amongst the regulars opinions are divided over the merits of the ski boat that shares the facilities. Many believe that it keeps the water moving and the food chain suspended in the water.

15. Marford Farm – River Lee  

Manford Farm is a great fishing spot in Hertfordshire, located near the village of Wheathampstead and easily accessible from major roads like the A1 and M1. Although it’s only about 25 miles from central London, the farm offers a secluded and private oasis with two distinct fishing venues.

The first venue is called the Short Walk, featuring 19 purpose-built swims stocked with various fish species, including barbel, chub, dace, roach, perch, carp, and gudgeon.

Across the street from the car park lies the Long Walk, a less manicured area with overhanging trees, shallow glides, and deep pools. This section is home to roach, barbel, chub, and carp, with some large specimens present.

Good to know:

• Marford Farm is overseen by the Verulam Angling Club.
• The fishery has a good stock of fish throughout, with varying approaches required depending on the spot.
• The roach in the Short Walk can reach up to three pounds in size. While fishing from designated swims is mandatory, different tactics work best in each area.
• A stick float and maggots can produce excellent results in most Short Walk swims, but a more mobile approach and stalking are recommended for the feature-rich Long Walk waters.
• Swims 1-13 on the Short Walk have some features and deeper water, while swims 14-19 are shallower.
• Parking and toilets facilities are available at this awesome fishing lake in Hertfordshire.

16. Moor Mill Pits

Located just a short distance from St. Albans city center, Moor Mill Fishery comprises four fishing lakes. These mature gravel pits were excavated in the early 1950s, initially owned by the London Anglers Association before being taken over by the Verulam Angling Club twelve years ago.

The first lake in the complex, Island Lake, is named for its dozen islands, offering designated swims and ample bankside cover. As for the size of the fish, Island Lake boasts an average carp weight of 16 to 18 pounds, with many exceeding 20 pounds, and the largest confirmed specimen weighing over 30 pounds.

Leather Lake takes its name from the second largest leather carp recorded in the UK, affectionately known as Toadless, who sadly passed away a few years ago. Leather Lake holds carp up to 25 pounds, along with some double-digit bream.

Ironically, Pike Pit isn’t particularly known for pike. It’s the deepest lake on the property but is considered the least productive by the Club. In Pike Pit, carp range from 30 to 40, mostly just under 30 pounds.

The shallowest lake, School Pit, with a maximum depth of just three ft, has only a few fishable swims but plenty of unconventional spots for fishing. The most notable carp in School Pit, nicknamed Two Tone, reaches the mid-20s in weight and is considered the most beautiful specimen at Moor Mill Fishery.

Good to know:

• When it comes to tactics, predator fishing is popular at Island Lake during the winter months.
• Fishing in School Pit requires an understanding of its terrain, as it can be weedy with undercut margins and overhanging banks. Anglers should be mindful of casting and be willing to experiment with different approaches.
• This fishing lake in Hertfordshire is open to the public and there’s footpaths throughout.

17. Frogmore Lake  

Frogmore Fisheries is one of the best fishing spots in Hertfordshire, consisting of lagoons formed from gravel extraction, which have been managed by the Verulam Angling Club since the late 1950s. However, do note that only the Match Lake and Tony’s Lake currently hold water due to past water retention issues.

Match Lake is a feature-rich lake with reed-fringed margins and islands, attracting good stocks of bream, carp, roach (some large), rudd, F1s, skimmers, occasional tench, crucians, and large perch. Sensible bait approaches like pellets, corn, meat, and maggots can yield large catches, and surface fishing for carp is effective in suitable weather.

Contrasting the Match Lake, Tony’s Lake is generally clearer and heavily weeded, making it ideal for tench fishing. Anglers can find good numbers of tench up to 6lb, along with roach, rudd to 1lb, and true crucians, offering excellent sport even in winter. Clearing weed patches is advisable in summer.

Good to know:

• At this fishing lake in Hertfordshire, only one rod is permitted on all lakes and fishing is from pegged swims only.
• This is a membership water. The season begins on June 16 and runs for a year.
• The fisheries are maintained by dedicated officers, and the site provides regularly cleaned toilet facilities.
• Parking is available here.

18. Grand Union Canal

Grand Union Canal is an 11 mile stretch widely regarded as the finest canal fishing spot in the UK, garnering significant recognition in angling publications, newspapers, and TV programs.

During summer, despite the relatively high leisure boat traffic, anglers often enjoy plentiful stocks of Roach, Perch, Bream, Carp, and Gudgeon once the water settles. Some sections have yielded Perch weighing over 3 pounds, and numerous large carp inhabit various stretches.

In milder winter weather, anglers can expect double-figure Roach catches, along with good Bream and Perch hauls, while carp remain active throughout the season.

Good to know:

• Fishing rights for the club extend solely from the towpaths and, where accessible, the offside bank, in compliance with public access rights.
• The average depth of the boat channel is approximately 1.25 meters, although certain areas are deeper, while the marginal shelves tend to be shallower.
• Day tickets can be obtained on-site from designated bailiffs. However, certain sections are exclusively for members. Day Ticket anglers are not permitted to night fish. 
• Night Fishing is only available to Club Members on certain sections and is permitted from 1 hour after sunset to 1 hour before sunrise.
• Ensure you have an EA rod licence – the sections are regularly patrolled by both club and EA Bailiffs.
• All fish must be returned to the water.

19. Tring Reservoirs Nature Reserve  

Tring Reservoirs are legendary fishing waters in England, renowned for producing massive specimen fish like record-breaking bream, catfish, tench, perch, and roach over the past 80 years.

Owned by the Canal and River Trust, the complex consists of four reservoirs – Wilstone (119 acres), Startops (26 acres), Marsworth (24 acres), and the trout fishery Tringford (20 acres).

Good to know:

• Wilstone was once the premier bream venue but now harbors mighty tench to over 14lbs.
• Startops is famed for its giant bream, with the British record at 17lb 4oz from here.
• Huge perch and roach also lurk, with a 5lb 9oz perch from Startops just shy of the British record.
• Carp to nearly 40lbs, pike over 30lbs, and big catfish further add to Tring’s reputation as a specimen hunters’ paradise.
• Marsworth provides a more accessible mixed fishery with quality roach, perch, bream, tench, carp and catfish.
• Night fishing is permitted for season ticket holders on these natural, tranquil waters that also attract birdwatchers and recreational visitors.

20. Stillwater Front Lake

Stillwater is a scenic, mature 6-acre gravel pit lake that offers an excellent carp fishing experience. Despite its reputation as a prime carp water, the lake also attracts pleasure and specialist anglers targeting other species due to its diverse fish population.

The Front Lake boasts an impressive head of carp, including mirror and common varieties up to 33lbs, with three specimens exceeding 30lbs. Additionally, anglers can expect to encounter a good mixed bag of bream up to 10lbs+, tench up to 10lbs+, and perch.

Good to know:

• Standard bottom tactics are commonly employed for targeting the carp here, with successful anglers taking advantage of the typical gravel pit features such as margins, bars, and silt gullies.
• Carp attain substantial weights in this venue, and the use of larger baits can be effective in deterring bream.
• Stillwater also offers excellent opportunities for bream and tench fishing, with anglers who put in the effort often rewarded with good catches on the feeder or waggler.
• Fishing is permitted from all banks except for the Pin, which is off-limits.
• Anglers must adhere to designated swims on both the Front and Back Lakes and ensure that the gate is locked at all times.
• Night fishing is allowed, but junior members must be accompanied and adjacent to a senior member.
• Any catfish caught must be placed in the retention nets provided, as none of the venues are approved for catfish.
• Stillwater Lake provides disabled-friendly toilet facilities on-site for the convenience of visitors.
• Parking is also available at this excellent fishing lake in Hertfordshire.

21. Carthagena Fishery

Carthagena Fishery is an excellent syndicate lake in Hertfordshire (Broxbourne) that offers a peaceful setting for anglers, surrounded by beautiful woodland and easily accessible from the A10.

This fishing lake in Hertfordshire holds a large amount of Carp to over 30lb, and a huge Common Carp to 40lb, as well as an abundance of Tench, Pike, Bream, and Perch, making this one of the most popular fishing spots in the area.

The fishery’s secluded swims are popular spots for carp anglers, with the margins and overhanging trees providing good cover for fish, making them ideal spots to catch bigger carp specimens.

Good to know:

• This fishing lake in Hertfordshire features over 100 large Carp, with sizes increasing rapidly year on year.
• Day tickets and on-site parking is available here.
• Anglers can find local tackle shops in Broxbourne and the fishery provides well-maintained swims and toilet facilities.

Conclusion 🎣

From the tranquil waters of Stanborough Lakes to the scenic beauty of Aldenham Country Park, Hertfordshire is home to some of the finest fishing lakes in the country.

Whether you’re seeking solitude amidst nature or the thrill of landing your next big catch, these idyllic lakes offer a diverse range of angling experiences for fishing enthusiasts of all levels.

So pack your tackle box, grab your rod, and embark on an unforgettable fishing adventure in the heart of Hertfordshire’s countryside.

I hope this article was helpful but if you have further questions about any of these amazing fishing lakes in Hertfordshire feel free to leave a comment below.

Otherwise, Happy fishing! 🐠