Stafford Fishery, Carp, Match & Pleasure Waters
BRIDGE POOL
8 Acres of Exceptional Specimen Carp Fishing
Bridge Pool offers a unique and rewarding fishing experience. Spanning approximately 8 acres, with depths ranging from 8 to 14 feet, this picturesque water features 10 well-spaced pegs, all located on the same bank except for peg 8a, which is situated on the opposite bank. The strategic placement of peg 8a has proven effective in keeping the fish from consistently hugging the far margins, enhancing the fishing opportunities for all anglers.
With pegs set approximately 30 yards apart—and a double peg in the centre for anglers wanting to fish together—Bridge Pool combines comfort with serious fishing. Like our other specimen waters, Bridge Pool is a bivvy-friendly venue, offering ample room for extended sessions. Each swim is equipped with a provided unhooking mat, landing net, and weigh sling to ensure the health and safety of our fish stock. Personal equipment is not permitted to minimize the risk of disease.
Exclusive Access for Dedicated Anglers
As with all specimen lakes at Baden Hall, no guests are allowed on Bridge Pool, preserving the quiet and focused atmosphere. Anglers have plenty of time to prepare for the day’s challenges with a peg draw at 10.30am. Bait boats are permitted for precise and efficient baiting, though we kindly ask for respectful use to maintain harmony among fellow anglers.
For essential guidelines on bait and tackle, please refer to our rules page here. RULES PAGE
Arrival and Peg Draw
Our peg draw takes place at 10:30 a.m. on your arrival day, adding an element of anticipation and fairness to your fishing session. With each peg offering unique underwater features and challenges, consider your choice carefully once allocated. Planning your swim strategy around known lake features, as well as any patterns you've observed, can give you an edge from the moment you cast in.
Lake Record: 44lb 8oz
Landed 9 fish with a 28 plus mirror the largest, with a few to mid and low twenty and the smallest 17lb.
Video & Map
Stock Overview: An Exciting Growing Population
Bridge Pool is home to a thriving stock of impressive carp. With numerous fish over 30lb, a healthy head of mid-to-upper 20lb specimens, and a current lake record of 42lb 4oz, this water offers a mix of challenges and rewards. The steady growth rate of its stock means it’s only a matter of time before the pool sees its first 40lb+ regulars, further cementing its reputation as one of Staffordshire’s premier carp waters.
Tips & Tactics
Location Strategy
Fishing exclusively from one bank provides anglers with expansive water coverage, with ranges from 80 yards to up to 135 yards in front of the double swim. On busy days, fish often push to the opposite side, but Bridge Pool’s unique layout allows you to bait up opposite your peg, minimizing spodding disturbance. Peg 8 and its counterpart, 8a, offer particularly dynamic opportunities, with excellent access to both open water and far-margin features.
End pegs can be especially productive during periods of fresh, warm winds, so keep a close eye on weather conditions and plan your tactics accordingly.
Adaptability is Key
In the warmer months, Zig rigs and surface fishing come into their own, with carp cruising the upper layers of the water. Observation is critical—look for signs of activity such as surface movement, bubbles, or subtle disturbances near the margins. Fishing over a well-baited area is another proven tactic on Bridge Pool, particularly in the deeper sections where carp often hold up.
Stealth Matters
As with any water featuring high visibility and pressured fish, maintaining a low profile and keeping noise to a minimum can significantly improve your results. Use polarized glasses to locate features and assess underwater activity, particularly near the far margins or in shallower areas where fish may congregate.
Recommended Baits: Proven Successes
Bridge Pool carp respond well to a variety of baits, making it an excellent venue for testing and refining your baiting strategies. Some consistently successful options include:
- Boilies: Mainline Cell and Essential Cell are top choices. Sticky Baits perform exceptionally well across seasons. Dynamite Baits Monster Tiger Nut is a classic that remains a strong contender. DNA Bug and Secret 7 are newer baits and proving to be excellent choices.
- Liquids and Additives: Enhancing your bait with liquids can add attraction, particularly in colder months or high-pressure conditions.
Experimenting with bait quantity and spread can be productive. In warmer months, lighter, more frequent baiting can maintain fish interest, while a concentrated approach works well during colder periods.
Rig Recommendations: Seasonal and Tactical Versatility
The dynamic nature of Bridge Pool demands a versatile approach to rigs. Tailor your setup based on the conditions and fish behavior for the best results:
- Zig Rigs: Effective for targeting carp in the upper layers, particularly during warm weather.
- Floater Fishing: Combine with surface controllers for dramatic takes when carp are active on the surface.
- Chod Rigs: Perfect for presenting bait over silt or light weed.
- Ronnie Rigs and Multi Rigs: Reliable all-round options that work well with pop-ups.
- PVA Bag Rigs: Ideal for creating concentrated bait zones, particularly effective in deeper water or when targeting specific features.
Always have a mix of rigs prepared to adapt to changing conditions. Bridge Pool carp are discerning, and refining your presentation can make a significant difference.
Additional Facilities: On-Site Tackle Shop
Our on-site tackle shop makes browsing your next bit of kit and picking up bait as simple and convienient as possible.
- KORDA
- FOX
- MAINLINE
- DNA BAITS
- DYNAMITE BAITS
- STICKY BAITS
- TRAKKER
- NAVITAS
- CARP SPIRIT
A Challenge Worth Pursuing
Bridge Pool combines stunning scenery, well-thought-out swim design, and a stock of thriving, fast-growing carp. Whether you’re targeting a new personal best or honing your skills with tactical approaches, this water offers a unique and rewarding experience for the dedicated angler. Its tranquil atmosphere and technical challenges make it one of Staffordshire’s most exciting specimen waters.
We now take online bookings for the Specimen Lakes
Staffordshire based fishery offering a variety of waters and facilities for Specimen, Match and Pleasure fishing. Our On-site tackle shop has an extensive range from top suppliers.
