DDAPS Dartford Lakes invites all fishing enthusiasts to join them at DDAPS Brooklands Fishing Venue, a local activity located near Dartford town centre. This day ticket water is managed by the Dartford and District Angling and Preservation Society (DDAPS) and has been a beloved fishing spot since the early 1930s.
The approximately 17 acre gravel pit complex has seen significant changes to the landscape, making it easier to access previously inaccessible areas. This means you can now fish with reasonable comfort via rebuilt pathways.
At DDAPS Brooklands Fishing Venue, you'll find several lakes to explore, each offering its own unique fishing experience. Baldwins Lake, which sits adjacent to the River Darent, is the smallest lake in the complex. It's perfect for matches and pleasure angling, providing up to 30 pegs for fishing. Thanks to a re-stocking program, you'll find a variety of fish species here, including Carp, Tench, Bream, Roach, Perch, Pike, and Eels. Keep an eye out for Carp weighing over 20lbs and Bream exceeding 7lbs. During summer, it's not uncommon to catch match and pleasure catches exceeding 80lbs.
The largest lake in the complex is A2 Lake, which is comparable to the Devon Road venue. This lake is stocked with the biggest fish and is home to Carp, Pike, Tench, Bream, and Perch. Here, you'll have the chance to reel in Carp and Pike weighing over 30lbs, Tench over 7lbs, Bream over 7lbs, and Perch up to 3lbs 12oz. Anglers have found success using groundbait feeder tactics, as well as boilies or dog biscuit floaters when targeting Carp. Additionally, big bags of Bream are frequently caught during matches.
To fish at DDAPS Brooklands Fishing Venue, all you need to do is purchase your ticket on the bank from the bailiffs. The prices can be found on the DDAPS website. However, it's important to keep in mind that there are certain rules and regulations that must be followed. For example, ledger and feeder fishing from the A2 bank is prohibited when the flag or boats are out. Fish cannot be sacked, retained, or removed from the venue, and keepnets are only allowed during official matches. Night fishing on the house side of Texas Bay behind B&M is also not permitted.
It's essential to respect the environment and wildlife while fishing at DDAPS Brooklands Fishing Venue. Activities such as cutting trees, flora or fauna, having bank fires, BBQs, swimming, boating, wading, firearms, camping, or tents are strictly prohibited. Only purpose-made fishing shelters are permitted, and plastic/artificial baits, peanuts, and leaders are not allowed. When pike fishing, anglers must use a minimum of 30lb braid, which is limited to the period between 1st October and 31st March. For pike or carp fishing, a large landing net and mat are compulsory, along with a minimum of 500 mm of tubing for ledger style fishing. Additionally, a carp care kit is mandatory.
DDAPS Brooklands Fishing Venue near Dartford town centre awaits your visit. Immerse yourself in its rich history, diverse fish species, and newly accessible areas. Make sure to purchase your ticket on the bank and follow the rules to ensure a pleasant day of fishing in this picturesque location. Bring your love of angling to DDAPS Dartford Lakes and enjoy a memorable fishing experience.