Fishery guide · Berkshire
Kingsmead Lakes
Kingsmead 1 is a big, tree-lined former gravel pit near Horton, Berkshire, run as a proper specimen carp syndicate water. Think around 30 acres, roughly 38 swims, night fishing and some serious lumps, with members-only access rather than day tickets.
“7.2/10 — Reported carp over 52 lb, plus big pike and tench, give K1 proper specimen-water appeal.”
Tackle Index scorecard
Free — we'll tell you when rules, prices or notices change here.
The lowdown
Kingsmead Lakes is the Horton Complex fishery near Horton, Berkshire, with Kingsmead 1 — also called Kingsmead One or K1 — as the principal water. It sits south of Stanwell Road, with Park Lane to the west and Bells Lane to the east. The fishery entrance is at TQ 01884 75722, while the car park is at TQ 01613 75502.
- 6 lakes: Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1), Church Lake, Boat Pool, Crayfish Pool, Island Lake, Kingsmead Island Lake
- Fish: carp, tench, pike, roach, perch
- Tickets from: RK Leisure Black Card — £2,850 per year
- Find it: Horton · SL3 9PJ
Plan your session
Fishery map of Kingsmead Lakes
Pick a pin or venue to see live bank-side conditions.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Fishery
Kingsmead Lakes
We haven’t got permission to show venue photos here yet. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Kingsmead Lakes
Kingsmead Lakes is the Horton Complex fishery near Horton, Berkshire, with Kingsmead 1 — also called Kingsmead One or K1 — as the principal water. It sits south of Stanwell Road, with Park Lane to the west and Bells Lane to the east. The fishery entrance is at TQ 01884 75722, while the car park is at TQ 01613 75502.
K1 is approximately 30 acres and has around 38 swims, so there’s a fair bit of water to go at. It’s a tree-lined former gravel pit, giving the place that classic gravel-pit feel: plenty of margins, corners and likely features to pick apart rather than just chucking into open water and hoping.
This is primarily a specimen carp water. Common carp over 45 lb and mirrors over 52 lb are reported, with ghost, grass, leather and koi carp also listed among the complex species. That’s proper target-fish territory, and the sort of venue where clipped-up work, tidy rigs and careful watercraft matter.
It’s not just carp on the cards. Pike over 29 lb, tench over 11 lb, roach over 2 lb and perch over 3 lb are reported too. A cheeky tench or big perch could make a welcome change while you’re keeping an eye on the carp rods, although the main game here is clearly chasing a lump.
K1 is available by season ticket rather than an ordinary day ticket, so this is firmly a syndicate-style setup. Night fishing is allowed, but bait boats are not. That puts the emphasis back on accurate casting, finding the spots and fishing properly from the swim.
Members get access to a lodge, showers and toilets, which is bob on for longer sessions. Dogs are allowed according to the published K1 listing. There are also clear admin bits to keep on top of: carry your membership card and rod licence, record catches in the lodge logbook, and follow the one-lake rule.
The season information needs a quick check before committing. The separate K1 listing gives 1 April to 15 March, while the wider Horton Complex rules state a closed season from 15 March until 13 April. Confirm the live dates with RK Leisure before you go. Membership enquiries go through the RK Leisure waiting-list page or with the fishery.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
We haven’t found any public angler reviews of this venue yet. Fished it? Add yours below.
Kingsmead Lakes FAQs
How do I enquire about membership?
Use the RK Leisure membership or waiting-list page, or contact the office with the fishery. The published membership page requires a 10% non-refundable deposit to join the waiting list.
What membership options include Kingsmead 1?
The Black Card costs £2,850 per year and includes Kingsmead 1 plus eight other listed lakes. The Gold Card costs £2,250 per year and includes Kingsmead 1, Horton Church, Boat Pool, Crayfish Pool and Island Lake.
Are dogs allowed at Kingsmead 1?
Yes. Dogs are allowed according to the published K1 venue listing.
What facilities are available for K1 members?
The complex provides a lodge, showers and toilets for Kingsmead 1 members.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
We haven't found a tackle shop on site at Kingsmead Lakes. Sort your bait and end tackle before you travel, as there's no guarantee of anything close by near Horton.
Do I need to bring food?
We haven't seen any food on site, so bring your own grub and drinks. A flask and a stove (where allowed) make a long day much better.
Are there toilets on site?
Yes — the fishery lists showers.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
Yes — car park. Walks to the further pegs can be a trek, so a barrow helps.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
SL3 9PJ.
How much is a ticket?
RK Leisure Black Card: £2,850 per year; RK Leisure Gold Card: £2,250 per year; Waiting-list deposit: 10% non-refundable deposit. Prices last checked 2026-10-12 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Kingsmead Lakes isn't day-ticket water — Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1), Church Lake, Boat Pool, Crayfish Pool, Island Lake, Kingsmead Island Lake are members or syndicate only.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find carp, tench, pike, roach, perch. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
6 — Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1) (Approximately 30 acres), Church Lake (Not published), Boat Pool (Not published), Crayfish Pool (Not published), Island Lake (Not published), Kingsmead Island Lake (Not published).
Is night fishing allowed?
Yes — Night fishing is allowed on K1.
Can I bring my dog?
Not covered in the rules we've checked. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Are bait boats allowed?
No — Bait boats are not allowed on Kingsmead 1.
Do I need barbless hooks?
Most UK fisheries prefer barbless or micro-barbed hooks — ask on arrival if unsure.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Bring one either way — most fisheries expect it and the fish deserve it.
Is it suitable for disabled anglers?
We haven't seen disabled access listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Do I need a rod licence?
Yes — anyone 13 or over fishing in England and Wales needs an Environment Agency rod licence (or Natural Resources Wales in Wales), on top of your fishery ticket.
When's the best time of year to fish here?
Late spring through autumn is prime for most species. Check our live weather edge for this venue before you go — it updates daily.
Anglers' photos
Been to Kingsmead Lakes? Share a snap
No angler photos yet. Be the first!
Syndicate · invite only
Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1): a proper 30-acre specimen carp syndicate water with reported mirrors over 52 lb.
- Size
- Approximately 30 acres acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, pike, roach, perch
Kingsmead 1 is a tree-lined former gravel pit of approximately 30 acres, with around 38 swims. It’s the main fishery at the Horton Complex and sits south of Stanwell Road, between Park Lane and Bells Lane.
The water is primarily aimed at specimen carp anglers, with common carp reported above 45 lb and mirrors above 52 lb. Pike, tench, roach and perch add a bit of variety, so there’s still plenty to keep you interested when the carp aren’t on the munch.
Common carp above 45 lb, mirror carp above 52 lb, pike above 29 lb, tench above 11 lb, roach above 2 lb and perch above 3 lb are reported; ghost, grass, leather and koi carp are also listed.
Lake photographs
A look around Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)
Kingsmead Lakes
Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)
We’re checking the fishery’s Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1) pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Specimen carp anglers happy working a larger gravel-pit style water
- Members wanting night fishing, proper facilities and a range of target species
Maybe not for
- Day-ticket anglers or anyone after a quick, low-faff session
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On a big lake with gravel bars, a good bed of bait on or behind a bar gives roaming fish a reason to stop and feed for longer.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Bait boats aren't allowed, so spod or throwing-stick the bait out — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1) FAQs
Can I fish Kingsmead 1 on a day ticket?
No. The fishery is available by season ticket rather than an ordinary day ticket.
Are bait boats allowed on K1?
No. Bait boats are not allowed on Kingsmead 1, so accurate casting and good watercraft are the order of the day.
What's the lake record on Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)?
Going by what the fishery says: Common carp above 45 lb, mirror carp above 52 lb, pike above 29 lb, tench above 11 lb, roach above 2 lb and perch above 3 lb are reported; ghost, grass, leather and koi carp are also listed. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)?
carp, tench, pike, roach, perch. Common carp above 45 lb, mirror carp above 52 lb, pike above 29 lb, tench above 11 lb, roach above 2 lb and perch above 3 lb are reported; ghost, grass, leather and koi carp are also listed.
How big is Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1) and how many swims?
Around Approximately 30 acres acres. A proper 30-acre specimen carp syndicate water with reported mirrors over 52 lb..
Which baits work well on Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1) further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1) get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Kingsmead Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Is night fishing allowed on Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)?
Yes — Night fishing is allowed on K1.
Who does Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1) suit?
Good for: Specimen carp anglers happy working a larger gravel-pit style water; Members wanting night fishing, proper facilities and a range of target species. Less suited to: Day-ticket anglers or anyone after a quick, low-faff session.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Syndicate · invite only
Church Lake: one of the horton complex waters included with selected rk leisure memberships.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Church Lake is named in the Horton Complex rules and is included with the published RK Leisure Gold Card. The checked details do not give its size, swims or fish profile.
Anglers fishing Church Lake must sign in and out at the lodge, and the wider complex rule says only one lake may be fished at a time.
Lake photographs
A look around Church Lake
Kingsmead Lakes
Church Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Church Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- RK Leisure members with access through the relevant membership
- Anglers happy following lodge sign-in and complex procedures
Maybe not for
- Day-ticket anglers, as the complex is membership controlled
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Church Lake
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Church Lake FAQs
Is Church Lake included with the Gold Card?
Yes. The published Gold Card includes Kingsmead 1, Horton Church, Boat Pool, Crayfish Pool and Island Lake.
Do Church Lake anglers sign in and out?
Yes. Church Lake anglers must sign in and out at the lodge.
What's the lake record on Church Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Church Lake that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Church Lake?
carp.
How big is Church Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. One of the Horton Complex waters included with selected RK Leisure memberships..
Which baits work well on Church Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Church Lake further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Church Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Church Lake?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Kingsmead Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Church Lake?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Church Lake on a day ticket?
No — Church Lake is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on Church Lake?
Yes — Night fishing is allowed on K1.
Who does Church Lake suit?
Good for: RK Leisure members with access through the relevant membership; Anglers happy following lodge sign-in and complex procedures. Less suited to: Day-ticket anglers, as the complex is membership controlled.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Syndicate · invite only
Boat Pool: a named horton complex water covered by selected syndicate membership.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Boat Pool is one of the waters listed within the Horton Complex and is included with the published RK Leisure Gold Card. No checked details are given for its acreage, swims or species.
The complex rules require Boat Pool anglers to sign in and out at the lodge. Only one lake may be fished at a time under those rules.
Lake photographs
A look around Boat Pool
Kingsmead Lakes
Boat Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Boat Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Existing RK Leisure members with the right lake access
- Anglers who are happy with formal complex procedures
Maybe not for
- Casual anglers looking for open day-ticket access
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Boat Pool
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Boat Pool FAQs
Is Boat Pool part of the Gold Card?
Yes. Boat Pool is included in the published RK Leisure Gold Card.
Is there a published size for Boat Pool?
Not in the checked details.
What's the lake record on Boat Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Boat Pool that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Boat Pool?
carp.
How big is Boat Pool and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A named Horton Complex water covered by selected syndicate membership..
Which baits work well on Boat Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Boat Pool further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Boat Pool get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Boat Pool?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Kingsmead Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Boat Pool?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Boat Pool on a day ticket?
No — Boat Pool is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on Boat Pool?
Yes — Night fishing is allowed on K1.
Who does Boat Pool suit?
Good for: Existing RK Leisure members with the right lake access; Anglers who are happy with formal complex procedures. Less suited to: Casual anglers looking for open day-ticket access.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Syndicate · invite only
Crayfish Pool: a named syndicate water on the rk leisure gold card.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Crayfish Pool is listed as part of the Horton Complex and is included with the published RK Leisure Gold Card. The checked details do not publish its size, swim count or fish list.
Access is governed by membership and the wider complex rules, including the requirement to fish only one lake at a time.
Lake photographs
A look around Crayfish Pool
Kingsmead Lakes
Crayfish Pool
We’re checking the fishery’s Crayfish Pool pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Gold Card members wanting access to several Horton Complex waters
- Anglers comfortable checking current venue rules before fishing
Maybe not for
- Day-ticket visitors and anglers wanting published lake-by-lake detail
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Crayfish Pool
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Crayfish Pool FAQs
Is Crayfish Pool included on the Gold Card?
Yes. It is listed among the Gold Card waters.
Can I fish Crayfish Pool and another lake at the same time?
No. The complex rules say only one lake may be fished at a time.
What's the lake record on Crayfish Pool?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Crayfish Pool that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Crayfish Pool?
carp.
How big is Crayfish Pool and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A named syndicate water on the RK Leisure Gold Card..
Which baits work well on Crayfish Pool?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Crayfish Pool further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Crayfish Pool get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Crayfish Pool?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Kingsmead Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Crayfish Pool?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Is night fishing allowed on Crayfish Pool?
Yes — Night fishing is allowed on K1.
Who does Crayfish Pool suit?
Good for: Gold Card members wanting access to several Horton Complex waters; Anglers comfortable checking current venue rules before fishing. Less suited to: Day-ticket visitors and anglers wanting published lake-by-lake detail.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Syndicate · invite only
Island Lake: a named kingsmead-area lake included with selected rk leisure access.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Island Lake is named in the RK Leisure membership details and is included with the published Gold Card. A photograph is also titled Dinghy sailing, Kingsmead Island Lake and is located in the same Kingsmead lake area.
No checked details are given for Island Lake’s acreage, swims or fish stocks. Access remains membership controlled, with the wider complex rules applying.
Lake photographs
A look around Island Lake
Kingsmead Lakes
Island Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Island Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- RK Leisure members with Island Lake access
- Anglers who check the current complex arrangements before setting up
Maybe not for
- Non-members and anglers seeking a simple day-ticket venue
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Island Lake
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Island Lake FAQs
Is Island Lake included with the Gold Card?
Yes. Island Lake is listed as one of the Gold Card waters.
Are Island Lake’s size and fish stocks published here?
No. Those details are not in the checked facts.
What's the lake record on Island Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Island Lake that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Island Lake?
carp.
How big is Island Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A named Kingsmead-area lake included with selected RK Leisure access..
Which baits work well on Island Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Island Lake further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Island Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Island Lake?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Kingsmead Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Island Lake?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Island Lake on a day ticket?
No — Island Lake is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on Island Lake?
Yes — Night fishing is allowed on K1.
Who does Island Lake suit?
Good for: RK Leisure members with Island Lake access; Anglers who check the current complex arrangements before setting up. Less suited to: Non-members and anglers seeking a simple day-ticket venue.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Syndicate · invite only
Kingsmead Island Lake: a lake name appearing in the kingsmead-area information.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp
Kingsmead Island Lake appears in the checked information through a photograph title describing dinghy sailing in the same Kingsmead lake area.
No separate fishing details are supplied for this lake, including acreage, swims, species or access arrangements.
Lake photographs
A look around Kingsmead Island Lake
Kingsmead Lakes
Kingsmead Island Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Kingsmead Island Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers checking the exact lake identity with RK Leisure
- Members already familiar with the Kingsmead-area waters
Maybe not for
- Anyone relying on this listing for a full venue profile
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Kingsmead Island Lake
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Kingsmead Island Lake FAQs
Is Kingsmead Island Lake the same as Island Lake?
The checked facts place them in the same Kingsmead lake area but do not confirm whether they are separate names for the same water.
Are fishing details published for Kingsmead Island Lake?
No. No separate fishing details are supplied.
What's the lake record on Kingsmead Island Lake?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Kingsmead Island Lake that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Kingsmead Island Lake?
carp.
How big is Kingsmead Island Lake and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A lake name appearing in the Kingsmead-area information..
Which baits work well on Kingsmead Island Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Kingsmead Island Lake further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Kingsmead Island Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Kingsmead Island Lake?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Kingsmead Lakes before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Kingsmead Island Lake?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Kingsmead Island Lake on a day ticket?
No — Kingsmead Island Lake is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on Kingsmead Island Lake?
Yes — Night fishing is allowed on K1.
Who does Kingsmead Island Lake suit?
Good for: Anglers checking the exact lake identity with RK Leisure; Members already familiar with the Kingsmead-area waters. Less suited to: Anyone relying on this listing for a full venue profile.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- No
Is Kingsmead 1 available on a normal day ticket?
The fishery is available by season ticket rather than ordinary day ticket.
- Yes
Is night fishing allowed on Kingsmead 1?
Night fishing is allowed on K1.
- No
Are bait boats allowed?
Bait boats are not allowed on Kingsmead 1.
- Must
Do I need a valid membership card and Environment Agency rod licence?
Members must carry a valid membership card, and anglers must carry a valid Environment Agency rod licence.
- Seasonal
How many rods can I use?
The normal limit is two rods from 1 April to 31 October, rising to three rods from 1 November to 15 March.
- Must
Do I need to record catches?
Catches must be recorded in the lodge logbook as soon as practicable.
- No
Can I fish more than one lake at once?
The complex rules say only one lake may be fished at a time.
- Only if
Are the season dates completely clear?
The K1 listing gives 1 April to 15 March, while the wider complex rules state a closed season from 15 March until 13 April. Confirm dates with RK Leisure.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 12 October 2026. Rules change — always check with the fishery before you go.
Rules and prices change through the season. Follow and we'll flag changes the fishery or other anglers report.
Tips & guides worth reading
How we'd fish each lake
Our own suggestions, worked out from each lake's features, its main fish and the venue rules. They're tried-and-tested methods, not reports from this venue, so watch the water and ask in the tackle shop on the day.
Kingsmead 1 (Kingsmead One / K1)
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On a big lake with gravel bars, a good bed of bait on or behind a bar gives roaming fish a reason to stop and feed for longer.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Bait boats aren't allowed, so spod or throwing-stick the bait out — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
pike
Lure fishing for the pike
Lures let you cover water and find active pike fast.
- Spinners, jerkbaits and 4–6in soft shads on a 20–30g rod.
- Always use a wire trace — pike bite through mono and fluoro.
- Move every 10–15 casts till you find them; work drop-offs and edges.
Church Lake
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Boat Pool
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Crayfish Pool
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
Island Lake
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Kingsmead Island Lake
carp
Light baiting tight to the island margins
Carp patrol the island margins on most venues. A handful of bait right on the edge often beats a heavy bed in open water, especially later in the day.
- Walk the bank first and look for bubbling, swirls or coloured water by the cover.
- Bait two or three spots with a few handfuls of chopped and whole boilies.
- Lower or flick the rig in quietly and back your line off with a back lead.
- Keep the drag set tight-ish — fish hooked by cover need turning quickly.
Good background reading. Most of it is a few years old, so treat it as a starting point and ask on the day.
Videos linked by the fishery
What anglers reckon
7.2/10 from Tackle Index: Reported carp over 52 lb, plus big pike and tench, give K1 proper specimen-water appeal.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
We haven’t found any public angler reviews of this venue yet. Fished it? Add yours below.
Our take on the feedback
Our read
Checked Sept '26 — “Kingsmead 1 is a big, tree-lined former gravel pit near Horton, Berkshire, run as a proper specimen carp syndicate water. Think around 30 acres, roughly 38 swims, night fishing and some serious lumps, with members-only access rather than day tickets.”
This is our own summary of recurring public feedback and the venue details we checked, not a copied customer review or a promise you’ll catch. Feedback changes, so we keep it separate from the Tackle Index score.
Angler score
What our readers rate Kingsmead Lakes
No angler score yet — nobody's reviewed Kingsmead Lakes here. Be the first and get the score started.