Monk Lake Fisheries

Monk Lake is a six acre lake set in the Weald of Kent - the Garden of England - approximately two miles north of the picturesque village of staplehurst . The lake nestles at the rear of the carp farm , a noted fish farm devoted to the hatching and rearing of koi, Ghost and Mirror carp together with ornamentals such as golden Tench and orfe. The farm supplies many of the leading commercial fisheries in the country.

Lying adjacent to the River Beult the lake offers panoramic views of the nearby hills and villages. Wildlife is abundant and includes herons, kestrels, kingfishers, snipe, plover and the ever-present marsh frogs, which often set up a frog chorus.

From the comfortable banks - ideal for the disabled angler - you may fish for carp up to 20lb plus. Plus Tench, Roach and rudd. Or you may catch some of the more exotic stillwater species, such as Golden Tench, Golden Orfe and Golden Rudd or perhaps Ghost carp, chub and barbel. Pleasure catches up to 100lb plus are common .

Juniors, beginners and those who prefer to catch fish regardless of size are catered for by Riverfield Lake at the front of the farm, which offers easy fishing for most of the above species but at smaller sizes .

The fisheries policy is simple one , Whether you are a specimen , match or pleasure angler we want you to catch fish and just as simply - enjoy yourself!

Facilities at the farm include a fishing lodge, (selling a range of baits, tackle, cold drinks and snacks) and a burger bar selling the usual range of hot snacks. Toilet facilities are located at the side of the fishing lodge and have wheelchair access.

Local places of interest for the non-fishing members of the family include the Whitbread Hop Farm at Beltring, Headcorn flowers and vineyard, and Leeds Castle - reputedly the most beautiful castle in the world - all of which are open in season.

Carp feeding off the top at Monk Lake Fisheries.

Fishery Rules.

These rules are formulated not to be difficult, or obstructive, but with the simple intention to safeguard the interests of both the owner, the fish, and you-the anglers who visit the fishery.

They are relatively few and simple. Obeying them is easier on you and us than disregarding them.

1. An Environment Agency licence is required to fish . The Agency bailiffs visit on a regular basis.

2. Two rods maximum to be used between the end of April to the end of October after which three may be used, provided sufficient rod licences are held.

3. Night fishing is by prior arrangement. Anglers arriving on spec will be turned away. All night anglers to be on the water by 8pm. Those anglers leaving early (before 630 am ) to park in the main car park.

4. No keepnets or carp sacks are to be used, except in booked club and open matches . All nets used to be dipped in the tanks provided. Both before and after use to prevent the spread of diseases.

5. All carp are to be returned to be water as soon as possible. Maximum care is to be exercised in handling any carp and a minimum of time spent in weighing and photography. The use of unhooking mats is recommended.

6. Barbless hooks only. No bent hooks. No fixed leads and no spinning. All rigs to be anti-tether. No 'beachcaster' rigs.

7. No Tiger nuts, peanut or other nuts allowed.

8. No dogs are allowed. All gates to be closed behind you.

9. No litter, especially waste nylon. Litter bins are provided - use them! This is to prevent damage to the sheep and wildlife. Anyone found dropping litter will be told not to return.

10 . During good weather cars may be driven to designated parking areas on Monk lake . During bad weather a sign at the front of the farm will direct anglers to use the main car park. Anglers ignoring the signs and getting stuck will be charged a tow-out fee of £10. The management accepts no responsibility for damage to cars or equipment on the farm.

11 . The management reserves the right to close all parts of the Lake for club and match bookings. Parts of the lakes are usually open on such occasions. If in doubt, phone to check before hand.

Additional Night Fishing Rules.

1. Night fishing is by prior arrangement. Anglers arriving on spec will be turned away. All night anglers to be on the water by 8pm. Those anglers leaving early ( before 06. 30 _am) are to park in the main car park. If the ground is dry, anglers may park in designated areas close to Monk Lake.

2. The owner lives in the house on the farm. Please show him respect by not driving through the farmyard late at night for trips to the chippy etc.

3. Lines are not to be cast along the margins during daylight hours when other anglers are about. Day ticket anglers take priority.

4. There is a toilet at the side of the shop. It is open 24 hours a day. Use it!! There is a tap for freshwater at the side of the shop.

5. No open fires, disposable barbecues are permitted, provided they are supported off the ground to avoid burning the grass. There are wheely bins by the shop. Please use them that if you have large amounts of rubbish.