Between 2014 - 2021 the Long Lake was used to grow on carp with no fishing allowed. Three ton of pellet a year was fed and the growth rates were amazing. Some carp were transferred to the Back and Front Lakes, uncaught carp were left to grow on.
In 2021 the Long Lake opened up to anglers for the first time. The exact size of the carp that remained was unknown and something of a mystery...................
A conservative estimate of carp numbers is 250, making it the heaviest stocked of all the lakes at East Delph. Average size is around 12lb.
Largest so far is a 29lb 1oz mirror. Three different upper 20s and about 10 different low 20s have been caught.
Are more big fish uncaught carp present? Definitely!
You're fishing for pristine carp on a lake where many have yet to be caught for the first time, that element of unknown makes the Long Lake special.
The Long Lake is secure and very private. A deep, wide ditch on the far side of a high embankment surrounds the lake, meaning you see no one else apart from anglers and fishery staff during your visit.
The fishery only allows those booked for the day on the site. On a lake exclusive booking you'll only see the anglers in your group on the bank.
The two-acre Long Lake seven-angler limit allows plenty of scope for those who like to ‘get way from the crowds.’
With eight islands and numerous features it’s a perfect lake for anglers who love stalking. The islands and lake surrounds benefit from some majestic weeping willows amongst the other mature trees.
There are also a good number of double swims, purposely designed to allow anglers to fish together 'on a social'.
The lake is very silty in the middle areas, it's recommended that anglers identify one of the numerous firmer areas to fish over. The margins are firm enough for good bait presentation all the way round.