About Us
Thirty years in the making, now a specimen carp water.
From Coarse Fishery
to Specimen Water.
The lake at Near Gatten has a history that stretches back over 30 years. Originally dug by the late Harold Harding of Near Gatten Farm, it was run for many years as a local coarse fishery — a place for quiet afternoons, modest catches, and the simple pleasures that come with sitting beside still water in the Shropshire countryside.
In late 2010, we secured the site and saw something more in it. The lake's natural contours, its depth variation, its sheltered position in the hills — all the hallmarks of a venue with the potential to be something truly special. So we set about transforming it into a dedicated specimen carp fishery.
Developing into
Something Special.
Today, Near Gatten is already regarded as one of Shropshire's premier big fish waters — and we're only getting started. The 3-acre lake sits quietly in the Shropshire Hills, carefully managed and constantly improving.
The lake currently holds around 120 carp, ranging from 20lb up to over 40lb. A high proportion of the stock exceeds 35lb, and with steady growth year on year, the venue continues to develop into the specimen water we always knew it could be.
Depths vary from 4ft to 14ft across the lake, and each of the nine swims offers a different set of features to read and fish — rewarding the angler who takes the time to learn the water.
Thoroughbred English Carp.
Our carp were supplied by VS Fisheries Ltd — one of the UK's most respected carp farms. Their breeding programme draws on historic bloodlines including Leneys, Dink, and the renowned Sutton at Hone strain, producing fish that not only look exceptional but are built to grow into the true specimens of the future.
Historic Bloodlines
Leneys, Dink, and Sutton at Hone — the same genetics that produce the great fish of the future.
Growing Year on Year
Growth rates at Near Gatten have been impressive. The best of this lake is very much still to come.
20lb to 40lb+
Around 120 carp in the lake, with a high proportion already exceeding 35lb and the stock getting heavier each season.
“Set in truly beautiful surroundings, Near Gatten has an array of features in and around the lake that makes it a very intriguing venue to fish for carp.”
Near Gatten Fishery · Ratlinghope, Shrewsbury