Dove Lake

About Dove Lake

If you’re looking for a more relaxed peaceful days fishing away from the hustle and bustle of the Main Lake then Dove Lake is the one for you. At two acres in size it’s slightly smaller than the Main Lake but don’t be fooled into thinking that’s a reflection of the size of fish! With both Common and Mirror carp over 36lb this specimen carp water offers some of the best specimen fishing in Kent and Sussex. 

Our current lake records are: a whopping 66lb Catfish caught in October 2020 by Tom Jenner (previously: 63lb 12oz Catfish caught by Dave Honeysett in April 2019), a 38lb Mirror caught most recently by Daniel Dowley in September 2018, and a 34lb 8oz Common caught by Tom Marshall in April 2019 (a 36lb 8oz Common was stocked in May 2019 but is yet to be caught!). 

Don’t be fooled into thinking the fish will give themselves up easily, as a stealthy approach is recommended to trip up these elusive monsters. With two islands and attractive reed lined margins, there are plenty of areas to target in your quest for a big specimen. There are 8 swims to choose from but we allow a maximum of 6 anglers at any one time to prevent over crowding and give anglers their own water to fish to. The depth ranges from 2 feet around the islands and shelves down to 8 feet in the deeper holes which are worth finding in the cooler months. The bottom can be described as silty clay with no weed present although the margins can be quite leafy so pop-ups are worth a try. We are sure that if the Main Lake doesn’t appeal to you then the Dove Lake should definitely be worth a try!

Please be aware that all of our lakes are annually treated with blue dye to prevent algae blooms throughout the Summer. This is usually carried out April/May depending on the weather. This treatment has absolutely no affect on fishing or catch rates.

Tips!

Dove lake is a little different to the Main lake as it is a lot smaller and the water can be quite clear at certain times of the year. This has led to the fish being wiser and able to detect anglers presence. A stealthy approach is recommended on Dove lake. A good tactic is to fish the open water between the island and the bank when it’s cooler and to fish nearer to the margins when it’s warmer. The fish can often be seen cruising around on hot days so finding them is sometimes made easier. The margins can be quite leafy on the bottom so it’s worth experimenting with different presentations to try to combat this. If anglers spend time reading the water and looking for the subtle signs of fish they may well be rewarded for their efforts.

For any anglers targetting catfish, we strongly recommend a minimum 50″ landing net, 3.25 test curve and an XXL padded Catfish mat. Please contact the bailiff on 07926 988 668 if you require assistance with any of the bigger residents. 

In terms of bait, Boilies work well on Dove lake, there is no single type which works best but something that smells nice and strong is a safe bet- why not try Mainline (cell or link), Proper Baits (Hot Squid, Crunchy Nut or Black Seal), cc Moore (Pacific Tuna), or Sticky Baits (Manilla or Krill). We’d recommend fishing in conjunction with a scattering of pellets, particle or spomb mix. Particles and corn can also work well as do maggots in the colder months.

How to Book! 

Sessions must be booked in advance and paid for in full upon booking. Bookings can be made over the phone during office hours, or online via Swimbooker.

Refunds

All bookings are final; we are unable to offer refunds or change the dates of your session. 

If you are unable to make your session or if you have to leave during your session for any reason, unfortunately we are unable to issue a refund. However, if adverse weather conditions occur that cause the lakes to become un-fishable please contact the office on the number below to reschedule your session.