THE FARM LAKES STORY
Built from the water up
Farm Lakes was not given a cosmetic refresh. The neglected former fishery was extensively netted, reshaped, replanted, restocked and rebuilt around the long-term health of the waters.
WHERE IT STARTED
A fishery in need of complete redevelopment
When the waters were taken on, the old fishery had been neglected and was in significant disrepair. Before new fish could be introduced or the banks improved, the existing waters and stock had to be properly understood.
An extensive netting operation formed a major part of that early work. The old stock was assessed and managed carefully, giving the team a clear starting point for rebuilding healthy, balanced fisheries.
The process, including the netting and condition of the original fishery, was documented in video so visitors can see the scale of what happened behind the finished lakes.
THE BUILD
More than landscaping
Netting the old fishery
Extensive netting allowed the existing fish population to be assessed and managed before redevelopment moved forward.
Opening the water
Several islands and a large spit were removed from Scarlett's, producing more open, usable water and a better angling layout.
Rebuilding the banks
Swims were reconstructed, access improved and sand margins created to remain practical as the irrigation reservoir rises and falls.
Restoring habitat
More than 6,000 aquatic plants were introduced to strengthen habitat, soften the rebuilt banks and support the ecosystem.
Restocking carefully
Both waters were restocked with fish sourced from established UK suppliers, selected to create healthy and distinctive fisheries.
Building for anglers
The anglers' cabin, kitchen, shower, toilets, power and charging facilities completed a fishery designed for longer sessions.
BUILD FILMS
Watch the transformation
Add the published Farm Lakes redevelopment films here through the native Divi Video modules. The supplied source videos have only been used to create still imagery.
Netting the old fishery
The original stock, the condition of the water and the work required before redevelopment could begin.
Building Scarlett's Lake
Opening the water, removing islands and the spit, rebuilding swims and creating the new layout.
Planting and landscaping
Re-establishing the margins and introducing thousands of aquatic plants around the lake.
THE EARTHWORKS
Scarlett's under construction
Original aerial photographs show heavy machinery operating in the water, the former layout being opened up and the margins being rebuilt.
THEN & NOW
The result is visible
What now appears established and natural is the result of extensive earthworks, planting, fishery management and continued maintenance.
That work remains ongoing. Scarlett's water levels change because the lake continues to serve as a farm irrigation reservoir, while both fisheries require careful decisions about stock, habitat and angling pressure.
WHY FARM LAKES
What makes it different
Built by anglers
Decisions about layout, stocking, facilities and bookings have been made around how anglers actually use the water.
Low pressure
Small booking limits protect the experience and give every angler meaningful space.
Active management
Capture records, habitat work and strict fish-care rules support long-term development.
A working landscape
The lakes remain part of a 1,000-acre Essex farm, surrounded by open fields, wildlife and seasonal conditions.
BOOK YOUR SESSION
Ready to fish Farm Lakes?
Choose your water, check availability and secure your dates.
Exclusive carp fishing on Scarlett's Lake and peaceful day fishing on the Specimen Pond, set within working farmland in Essex.
Booking
Availability and current prices are confirmed through Swimbooker.