Preston Fisheries is a reputable fishing club located in Colchester, New Zealand. Established in 1921, the club, known as Colchester Angling Preservation Society Ltd or CAPS, has been providing angling opportunities in the Essex area for almost a century. With a focus on improving existing fisheries and acquiring new waters, CAPS aims to offer its members a diverse and enjoyable fishing experience in picturesque surroundings at an affordable price.
CAPS boasts an impressive collection of fishing venues, including 15 stillwaters spanning over 80 acres, over 12 miles of the Chelmer & Blackwater Canal, a 5-mile stretch of the River Stour between Nayland and Langham, and a 1-mile section of the River Stour at Henny. The stillwaters feature a variety of fish species, including carp weighing over 40lb, tench over 12lb, chub over 6lb, pike, roach, bream, and other silver fish. Night fishing is permitted in most of the venues, catering to the needs of both carp enthusiasts and pleasure anglers alike.
Continuously striving to enhance the fishing experience for its members, CAPS invests in ongoing improvements, such as fish stocking, swim building, and the installation of otter fencing to protect their fisheries. Members can expect well-maintained waters that provide ample opportunities for both record-breaking catches and leisurely angling excursions.
Some of the popular venues in CAPS include Bovington 1 and 2, home to carp weighing over 30lb and double-figure tench, respectively. Brookhall Lake is a heavily stocked 4-acre lake teeming with carp, bream, tench, rudd, and roach. Inworth Grange Lake 1 offers the chance to catch carp up to 43lb, with an abundance of large pike, perch, and crucian carp also present. Other notable venues include Layer Pit, Lodge Farm, Olivers Lake, Prestons Lake, Snake Pit, Wellhouse Reservoirs, Brakes Long Pit, Brakes Round Pit, and Rectory Pool.
For those who are passionate about fishing or simply want to enjoy a relaxing day on the water, Preston Fisheries offers a range of options catering to different preferences and skill levels. The club is committed to providing members with exceptional fishing experiences while prioritising the preservation and improvement of the fisheries they manage.