Fishing is not just an act of catching fish, but a process that requires skill, patience, and an understanding of the environment.
As passionate anglers, we recognize this, and perfectly camouflaged with our enthusiasm for the outdoors, we embark on epic fishing adventures in pursuit of the perfect catch.
There’s no better place to commence this grand exploration than in Kent – often referred to as the “Garden of England”.
This idyllic county cradles some of the top fishing lakes in South East England, providing a heartening mix of fish species and awe-inspiring sceneries that draws both day-ticket fishery and night-time match anglers.Â
So pack your tackle shop essentials, and let’s explore 15 of the best fishing lakes in Kent with pictures that will surely fuel your passion for angling further.
Table of Contents
15 Best Fishing Lakes in Kent
1. Gedges Lakes
Nestled amidst lush greenery, Gedges Lakes is a family-run fishing lake complex that comprises four different lakes teeming with carp, bream, and tench amongst others. It is an acre lake that offers excellent coarse fishing and is an ideal choice for beginner anglers.
2. Chequertree FisheryÂ
A mix of mature lakes and recent excavations have made Chequertree Fishery a popular fishing venue. One such gem is the rainbow trout water which provides excellent fly-fishing opportunities even in varying water temperatures.
3. Monk Lakes
In the tranquil setting south-east of Maidstone lies Monk Lakes which consists of seven coarse and match lakes harboring double figures sized fishes like carp and bream additionally there are three specimen carp lakes. Monk Lakes are revered for their mixed lake variety proving a great time for any passionate angler.
4. Claygate Lakes
Covering 50 acres of water Claygate Lakes located near Marden guarantees a warm welcome to its visitors along with an abundant stock consisting mainly of common and mirror carp, making this venue a delight for carp fishing enthusiasts.
5. Cottington Lakes
This angling paradise spread over 45 acres houses eight large lakes renowned for its specimen carp lake. It offers day ticket water, and night fishing opportunities and boasts of shower facilities and an Indian restaurant ensuring a comfortable stay for the anglers.
6. Elphicks Fishery
Famous for its large carp ranging up to 40 lbs, Elphicks provides an exquisite experience. The fishery includes seven lakes and a stock pond offering excellent facilities including a tackle shop blending perfectly with the beautiful scenery, making it one of the best carp fishing lakes.
7. Shirkoak Fisheries
An enchanting spectacle near Woodchurch, Shirkoak houses five distinctive mature lakes spanning over 37 acres of water. This location has easy access to catch plenty of fish including crucian carp, roach, and perch amongst others promising a great lake adventure.
8. Brookland Lake
This hidden gem located on the outskirts of Romney Marsh is popular amongst match anglers and pleasure-lake seekers alike. Boasting mirror and common carps well into double figures it’s certain to give anglers that adrenaline rush when the rod bends.
9. Horsham Fishing Lake
Located in a picturesque area in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Horsham Fishing Lake’s main lake is filled with brown and rainbow trout, ideally suited for fly-fishing fans all around Kent and beyond.
10. Cackle Hill Lakes
Nestled amidst greenery near Biddenden lies Cackle Hill Lakes where you can enjoy stunning views as you angle for mirror or common carp which have been noted to be rather hefty in size here.
11. Frant Lakes
Just outside Tunbridge Wells is Frant Lakes offering acres full of well-stocked waters with healthy common carp, known especially for their day ticket lake.
12. Stonar Lake
Regarded as ‘a lifesaver for local anglers’, Stonar is the largest still water fishery in Kent, promising a range of different lakes and ponds to cater to every angler’s objectives.Â
13. Hartley Lands Fishery
Privately situated within an orchard, Hartley offers seven easy-access lakes mainly outlined for match fishing while also targeting individual pleasure anglers seeking roach and perch.
14. Tricklebrook Fishery
Situated in the heart of Kent’s countryside near Frant, this fishery houses a two-acre coarse lake filled with healthy specimens of carp and tench which contribute to its status as one of the best experience fishing waters in the southeast.
15. Oak Spring Lake
Oak Spring Lake near Chartham is a rich source for coarse fishing including several species such as carp, crucian carp, and tench, providing an idyllic space for anglers aiming to hone their tactical angling skills.
Each lake described portrays a unique chunk of Kent’s angling treasure, promising plenty of fish, unforgettable experiences, and moments that any passionate angler would cherish.
Regardless if you’re in search of native Brown trout in the River Eden or specimen Carp in River Medway, these top fishing spots have you covered.
If you’re planning your next fishing adventure around Kent with family or friends, take this not just as a guide but as an inspiration for exploring places that make your time worthwhile with every cast you pull out from these enchanting waters.
For those passionate night anglers looking for more than just day-time pleasures or perhaps eyeing catching Carps under the moonlight – most of these locations offer 24-hour tickets too.
From Frant Lakes located close to Royal Tunbridge Wells to Monk Lakes nestled at Marden; each of these destinations extends more than just ‘a good head of carp’, but scenic fishing spots nestled amidst ‘Garden of England’s’ lush landscapes, paving a wonderful route of fulfilling fishing pilgrimage tailor-made for every angler’s preference.
Your exploration in Kent paints warmth not just on the canvas of nature where tranquil waters meet ancient woodlands, but where you aren’t just deemed as another angler.
At each stop – be it at the family-run fishing lake complex of Gedges Lakes or the stocked pond of Elphicks Fishery; your passion for angling is extended a warm welcome transcending into a richer, satisfying angling experience.
Now that you’ve been introduced to these pearls, gear up with your favorite tackle shop essentials, pick that perfect spot by the bank, and let the magic unfold one cast at a time.
Each ripple on the water’s surface brings promise of an unforgettable catch, bookending another perfectly spent day amidst Kent’s unique combination of natural beauty and boastful fish variety!Â
The thrill of the chase, the peace found in serene settings; there truly is no better place to explore your passion for angling than amongst these top 15 best fishing lakes in Kent.
So what are you waiting for? Pick a lake or perhaps try them all, after all every time spent fishing is not deducted from lifespan they say!”
What Fish are off the Kent Coast?
Kent’s coastal waters render adventurous marine explorations with numerous opportunities for sea anglers. Common fish species off the Kent coast include Cod, particularly during the colder months, Dabs, Whiting, Dogfish, and Bass which prefer warmer waters.
Thornback rays are usually caught from spring to late summer whereas smooth-hounds become very prevalent during summer months.
Where Can You Fly Fish in Kent?
Kent provides numerous locales for fly fishing enthusiasts seeking to catch Trout or Grayling on the fly. The River Teise located close to Lamberhurst is one such popular location that harbors a healthy stock of brown trout throughout its course.
The Bewl Water reservoir near Lamberhurst is another one where it’s noted as the largest in Southeast England offering excellent still water fly fishing opportunities.
Lastly, we cannot forget Tenterden Trout Waters located near Ashford which presents options for both catch & release as well as catch & keep providing a top-notch fly-fishing experience with stocks that primarily fill with rainbow trout.
What Fish are in the River Kent?
River Kent makes up some of the best river fishing scenes in the UK. It teems with Salmon and Trout while also popular for its numbers of Grayling, Dace, Chub, and Roach.
The variety that River Kent offers makes it a favorite destination among anglers throughout the year. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, this diversity ensures River Kent presents you with fishing opportunities that will make your angling journey one worth cherishing.