The lake in the Country Park has an excellent reputation as a coarse fishery. It contains roach, tench, gudgeon and carp (the largest carp caught over the last couple of years that we have proof of was 19lb - fisherman's tales talk about a 22lb one!!).
Fishing is allowed between 7.30 am and 9 pm (or dusk if that is earlier) during the fishing season from 15 June to 15 March. You will need a permit to fish - either a day permit or a season permit. To prevent over fishing we limit the number of people who are allowed to fish by selling only 120 season permits a year and only 6 day permits a day.
Please note that children 12 yrs and over need to obtain a Rod Licence and Junior Angling Permits if fishing.
Environment Agency Rod Licence rules and local rules apply. Please note that we run a closed season from 15 March - to 15 June inclusive for both season and day permit holders.
Access may be difficult for people with reduced mobility as the lake is some distance from surfaced paths. If you have mobility problems and still want to fish please talk to the staff on site (Tel. 01206 853588) they may be able to help.
For more information on fishing in the Country Park, read the High Woods Country Park Fishing Rules.
Season permits 2019/20
You can buy a permit for the 2019/20 season which will cost £44.00 for an adult and £27.00 for a junior permit.
Only 120 season permits are issued each season. Download an Angling Permit Application Form here and send it to: parks@colchester.gov.uk.
If you need further details on permits, please contact us:
Telephone 01206 508805 or e-mail us: parks@colchester.gov.uk
Day permits 2019/20
Day tickets can be obtained from: K D Radcliffe Ltd, Gunsmith & Fishing Tackle, 131 Berechurch Hall Rd, Colchester CO2 9NR. Tel. (01206) 572758
Their opening hours are: 9.00 to 5pm Mon to Fri but have half day closing Thursday from 1pm. Saturday its 8.30am to 4.30pm. There is ample parking.
E-mail: info@kdradcliffe.co.uk Web: www.kdradcliffe.co.uk
Car parking charges
Car parking charges apply in the Turner Road Car Park. Anglers holding season fishing permits or day fishing permits are exempt from these charges providing they hold and display a valid car parking permit. Car parking permits for season fishing permit holders can be obtained via the downloadable application form on this page and for day permit holders at Ratcliffe's when purchasing a day fishing permit.
Failure to display a parking permit during your stay is a contravention of the car park regulations, as is use of the permit at any time other than when you are fishing in the Country Park and is likely to result in the issue of a penalty charge notice of £50. A Parking Permit is not required for the Chanterelle Car Park.
