Hadley Angling and Preservation Society (HAPS)

Supervision of the club committee). (c) No litter to be left around the lake – all rubbish must be taken home. (d) Dogs must be kept on a lead and under control at all times. Dogs must not be allowed to swim in the lake.

(e) No fish to be taken from the lake, except during club matches and with prior authorisation from the club committee. (f) No fishing within 15 metres of a club-organised match peg if not participating in the match. (g) All anglers must have a landing net and unhooking mat. (h) No keep nets to be used except during matches and with prior authorisation from the club committee.

(i) Barbless hooks only, maximum size 10. (j) No surface fishing allowed. (k) No bait boats allowed on the lake. (l) No live baiting allowed (except during club matches and with prior authorisation from the club committee).

(m) No unattended rods – all anglers must be present at their rods. (n) No night fishing allowed. (o) No swimming in the lake. (p) No fishing from the island.

(q) All anglers must have a valid Environment Agency Fishing licence if over the age of 12.

The Hadley Angling and Preservation Society (HAPS) is a small and friendly fishing club that has been operating since 1982 at Jack's Lake in Hadley Woods, Barnet, Hertfordshire. The club was formed with the aim of controlling fishing activities at the lake and is now open to both members and day ticket holders.

Jack's Lake, the primary fishing location, offers 44 pegs. Of these, 27 pegs are available to day ticket holders, while the remaining are exclusive to club members. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including carp, bream, roach, tench, chub, perch, pike, rudd, gudgeon, and occasional eels and barbel.

HAPS organises matches and coach outings for its members, providing opportunities for friendly competitions and shared angling experiences. Day tickets can be purchased from dawn to dusk, and a bailiff is available to collect rod fees upon starting fishing.

The club prides itself on recent improvements made to the lake, including new paths, metal safety platforms at most pegs, and steps to certain areas. These enhancements have greatly improved accessibility for anglers. However, it should be noted that there are limited formal facilities for disabled individuals, although assistance can be provided upon request.

HAPS maintains a set of rules to ensure a respectful and safe fishing environment. These rules cover general conduct, such as adhering to the standards set by the Environment Agency and refraining from actions that may harm the lake's ecosystem. Other rules include the prohibition of fires, the requirement to clean up after oneself, the need to keep dogs on a lead, and the restriction on fishing within 15 metres of a match peg if not participating in the match. Additionally, anglers must have the necessary equipment, such as a landing net and unhooking mat, and use barbless hooks within a specified size range.

The club emphasises responsible fishing practises, such as the use of keep nets only during matches and with prior authorisation, the ban on surface fishing, and the prohibition of bait boats and live baiting. Anglers are also required to attend to their rods at all times and are not allowed to fish during the night. Swimming in the lake and fishing from the island are strictly prohibited.

HAPS offers a range of ticket prices, including a senior ticket at 8 per rod (with additional costs for a second rod), free fishing for children under 12, and reduced rates for junior anglers over 12 and concession holders. It is mandatory for day ticket anglers over the age of 12 to possess a valid Environment Agency Fishing licence. Fishing is permitted from sunrise to sunset, with a maximum of two rods per person and per peg.

For those interested in joining HAPS or learning more about the club, the website provides information on upcoming events, recent news, and contact details. The club also has a presence on social media platforms like Facebook, where members and enthusiasts can stay connected and engaged. Additionally, the website offers resources like a weather check and directions to the lake.

HAPS is committed to preserving the natural beauty and integrity of Jack's Lake. By fostering a sense of community among its members and promoting responsible fishing practises, the club aims to create an enjoyable and sustainable angling experience for all.