Fishery guide · Warwickshire
Willesley Fishery
Willesley Fishery, also listed as Willesley Lake Carp and Coarse Fishery, is a big spring-fed estate lake near Ashby-de-la-Zouch. It’s now reported as syndicate-membership only, so this is one to check before making the trip.
“6.9/10 — A sizeable, old spring-fed lake with reported carp over 30lb and a good spread of coarse species.”
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The lowdown
Willesley Fishery sits near Ashby-de-la-Zouch in Leicestershire, rather than Warwickshire proper. The address is Willesley Woodside, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, with LE65 2UP commonly linked to the venue. Handy one to get pinned properly before setting off, especially if you’re travelling in with a car full of kit and a head full of big-fish plans.
- 1 lake: Willesley Lake
- Fish: carp, tench, bream, roach, perch, crucian
- Find it: Atherstone · LE65 2UP
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Fishery map of Willesley Fishery
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Fishery
Willesley Fishery
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Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Willesley Fishery
Willesley Fishery sits near Ashby-de-la-Zouch in Leicestershire, rather than Warwickshire proper. The address is Willesley Woodside, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, with LE65 2UP commonly linked to the venue. Handy one to get pinned properly before setting off, especially if you’re travelling in with a car full of kit and a head full of big-fish plans.
The main lake is approximately 24 acres, tucked into around 16 acres of woodland. It’s a spring-fed estate lake and a stillwater venue, originally built as a boating and fishing lake for Willesley Hall. At roughly 200 years old, it’s got proper old-water character rather than feeling like a freshly dug puddle.
Depths are reported from shallow margins down to about 15 feet, with much of the lake said to sit around 5 to 6 feet. That gives you a fair bit to work with. On a first trip, it’d be worth taking time to watch the water before reaching for the rods — check the margins, any signs of fish moving and how the wind is pushing across the lake. A marker or plumbing setup could also help build a picture before you get properly clipped up.
Willesley is described as a carp/specimen and coarse fishery. Reported fish include common and mirror carp, plus crucian carp, common and silver bream, tench, roach, perch and gudgeon. So, it isn’t just a lump-chasing water. There’s a proper mixed-fishery feel here, with options for a more relaxed coarse session as well as the chance of a much bigger bite.
Historical listings mention carp above 30lb, including a reported venue best of 32lb 14oz. That’s enough to get any carp angler watching the water and keeping an eye on the margins. Still, current stock details aren’t confirmed here, so it’s worth asking the fishery about present fish numbers, recent captures, best areas and sensible bait limits before planning a full-on campaign. Pack a balanced selection of tackle rather than assuming one approach will do everything.
The key bit is access. Older listings mention day tickets, annual membership and 24-hour fishing, but a 2026-era report says the fishery is now syndicate-membership only, with day tickets no longer available. Current membership prices weren’t found on an accessible official price page. Give the fishery a bell before travelling and confirm membership, rules, parking, night fishing and which facilities are currently available. That little bit of homework saves a proper wasted journey and a load of faff.
We're not sure on ticket prices here — we couldn't find reliable, up-to-date prices online, so give the fishery a ring or check their own site before you go.
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.
Willesley Fishery FAQs
Where is Willesley Fishery?
It is at Willesley Woodside, near Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire, commonly associated with postcode LE65 2UP.
Is Willesley Fishery in Warwickshire?
It is often listed that way, but the checked location is near Ashby-de-la-Zouch in Leicestershire.
Can you buy a day ticket?
Recent information says no. The fishery is now reported as syndicate-membership only, so check directly before travelling.
What is the reported biggest carp?
Historical listings report carp above 30lb, with a reported venue record of 32lb 14oz.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's a tackle or bait shop was listed historically. on site, so you can grab bits on the day. For anything bigger, stock up before you leave home — or order online in advance.
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 toilets were listed historically..
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off. Bring a barrow in case it's a walk.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
LE65 2UP.
How much is a ticket?
We haven't got current prices. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Willesley Fishery isn't day-ticket water — Willesley Lake is members or syndicate only.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find carp, tench, bream, roach, perch, crucian. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
1 — Willesley Lake (Approximately 24 acres).
Is night fishing allowed?
It's seasonal — Historical listings mention night fishing and 24-hour tickets, but those details should not be assumed current.
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?
We haven't seen a bait-boat rule listed. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
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?
The fishery lists disabled access was mentioned historically.. Ring ahead to check which swims suit you.
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
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Syndicate · invite only
Willesley Lake: a sizeable, old-school estate lake with carp over 30lb reported and a broad coarse-fish mix.
- Size
- Approximately 24 acres acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, perch, crucian
This is a roughly 24-acre spring-fed lake surrounded by about 16 acres of woodland. It was originally made for boating and fishing at Willesley Hall and is thought to be around 200 years old.
Depths range from shallow margins to approximately 15 feet, with much of the lake reported at around 5 to 6 feet. It’s currently reported as syndicate-membership only, so access needs checking before you pack the barrow.
Historical listings report carp above 30lb, with a reported venue record of 32lb 14oz.
Lake photographs
A look around Willesley Lake
Willesley Fishery
Willesley Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Willesley Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp anglers after a proper estate-lake setting and the chance of a serious lump.
- Coarse anglers who fancy working out a mixed stillwater with tench, bream, roach, perch and crucians.
Maybe not for
- Casual day-ticket anglers, as recent information says day tickets are no longer available.
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Willesley Lake
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
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.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
Willesley Lake FAQs
How big is Willesley Lake?
The lake is approximately 24 acres, set within around 16 acres of woodland.
What fish are in the lake?
Reported species include common and mirror carp, crucian carp, common and silver bream, tench, roach, perch and gudgeon.
What's the lake record on Willesley Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Historical listings report carp above 30lb, with a reported venue record of 32lb 14oz. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Willesley Lake?
carp, tench, bream, roach, perch, crucian. Historical listings report carp above 30lb, with a reported venue record of 32lb 14oz.
Which baits work well on Willesley Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Willesley 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: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Willesley 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 Willesley 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 Willesley Fishery before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Willesley 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 Willesley Lake on a day ticket?
No — Willesley Lake is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on Willesley Lake?
It's seasonal — Historical listings mention night fishing and 24-hour tickets, but those details should not be assumed current.
Who does Willesley Lake suit?
Good for: Carp anglers after a proper estate-lake setting and the chance of a serious lump.; Coarse anglers who fancy working out a mixed stillwater with tench, bream, roach, perch and crucians.. Less suited to: Casual day-ticket anglers, as recent information says day tickets are no longer available..
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
Are day tickets available?
A 2026-era report states that day tickets are no longer available and the fishery is syndicate-membership only.
- Must
Is syndicate membership required?
Recent information describes the venue as syndicate-membership only.
- Seasonal
Was night fishing available historically?
Historical listings mention night fishing and 24-hour tickets, but those details should not be assumed current.
- Must
Should you contact the fishery before travelling?
Booking or membership enquiries should be made directly with the fishery before travelling.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 10 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.
Willesley Lake
carp
Chod or helicopter style over soft weed and silt
Where the bottom drops in and out of holes or there might be soft silt or weed, a pop-up that slides up the leader sits over the muck instead of disappearing into it — no need to find a perfectly clean spot.
- Single pop-up, 2–3in off the bottom.
- Fish it as a single hookbait or with a light scattering of freebies — a big bed defeats the point.
- Cast to likely holes and let the lead settle; don't drag it back.
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.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
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
6.9/10 from Tackle Index: A sizeable, old spring-fed lake with reported carp over 30lb and a good spread of coarse species.
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 — “Willesley Fishery, also listed as Willesley Lake Carp and Coarse Fishery, is a big spring-fed estate lake near Ashby-de-la-Zouch. It’s now reported as syndicate-membership only, so this is one to check before making the trip.”
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 Willesley Fishery
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