Yellowtop Country Park

The Lake

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or picking up a rod for the first time, the beautifully maintained lake is sure to fit the bill, offering a rewarding and enjoyable day on the bank in a peaceful and relaxing setting, perfect for anglers of all levels.

It’s well-stocked with healthy carp up to 20lb, including some ghosties which are typically the biggest and will put up a great scrap if you hook one! You’ll also find plenty of tench, roach and rudd to keep your float going under or your indicator lighting up.

What truly sets Yellowtop Country Park apart is its commitment to offering fishing experiences that aren’t confined to specific seasons. The team actively promote fishing year round and the fishing lodges are available to book at any time, regardless of the calendar.

Top Techniques

All standard tactics will work for the carp and ghosties, not to mention the tench and silvers. Hair–rigged baits such as sweetcorn, luncheon meat, pellet or worm will help you pick up the better specimens and make sure you keep some bait going in, especially in the warmer months, as there is a good head of fish. Groundbait feeder tactics or The Method will score well here, too. Although do note that boilies are banned from being used anywhere in the lake.

When the weather warms up, floating dog biscuit or bread and a controller float will help you get among the action and enjoy some heart-stopping moments. Again, remember to keep the loose offerings going in to get the fish confident and competing for food before you make your cast. Light float tactics will account for the roach and rudd, whether as a waggler set up or on a long pole but remember to go heavier if you are targeting the tench on the bottom or expect to encounter some of the many carp. Maggots, worms and bread flake will keep the float going under – especially if you feed little and often – while sweetcorn and pellet ought to sort out the better fish for you.

There’s an island at one end, which is always worth a cast to – providing you keep clear of other anglers’ lines – not to mention plenty of clear water in front of most pegs. But don’t ignore the margins either. Early in the morning or later in the evening, the carp can move into these spots so be prepared for some close quarter battles and gear up accordingly.

One useful tip, especially if you don’t have access to a private peg, is to spend a few minutes walking the banks and looking for telltale signs of activity before settling down on the well-manicured grass. Or chat to the other anglers about potential hotspots and which baits have been catching as it can vary a little depending on the season and the weather conditions.

Easy Access

A total of 20 luxurious one and two-bed lodges, all boasting private tot tub and free Wi-Fi, surround the tranquil lake set to a backdrop of woodland, meaning it’s super easy to get fishing as soon as you wake up or get that last cast in as the sun begins to set.

If you want a guaranteed private peg then you should aim to book one of the one-bedroom lodges including Wild Oats 2, 3, 6, 7 and 11 or two- bedroom Harvest 1, 4, 5, 12 and 13. Wild Oats 11 and Harvest 1 are especially popular.

Guests booking the remaining Yellowtop lodges without private pegs are free to set up around the lake, anywhere on the bank provided they are not interfering with another angler’s private space. If you’re a couple, you can also book a Still Rabbit lodge, which is a short walk around to Yellowtop, again setting up on the bank if they wish to fish as well. The same applies to a group booking out Yellowrush Lodge – this is also just a short walk to the lake.

Accommodation

Yellowtop Lodges

Central to the fishing lake at Yellowtop Country park are the appropriately named Yellowtop Lodges. These exclusive fishing lodges which surround the lake have been thoughtfully designed to offer both comfort and convenience. These private spaces provide the perfect sanctuary for anglers seeking an unforgettable experience. Each fishing lodge is a haven of relaxation after a day of casting lines, catching fish and making memories.

In all, there are 20 Yellowtop Lodges, including 10 built at the start of the project some 20-plus years ago. Each boasts a well-appointed kitchen, cosy living spaces, private hot tub, free Wi-Fi and plenty of home comforts allowing you to unwind within sight of the water’s edge.

Beautifully appointed with everything you need for a lovely fishing holiday.

The one-bedroom lodges are all called Wild Oats and, as outlined above, if you want a private peg right outside your accommodation then lodges 2, 3, 6, 7 and 11 are the ones to go for. If you’re planning on taking your four-legged friend along for the trip, then you’ll need to book one of the dog-friendly lodges – Wild Oats 3, 11 or 14.

If it’s a bit more sleeping space you’re after than the two-bedded lodges are called Harvest or Clover and feature the same mod cons as their smaller counterparts, including private hot tub, free Wi-Fi, well-appointed kitchen, cosy lounge as well as two bedrooms. Harvest 1, 4, 5, 12 and 13 offer private fishing pegs while dog lovers should book Harvest 5 or 18 or Clover 10 and 20.

Still Rabbit

Built five years after the Yellowtop Lodges, Still Rabbit Lodges have been designed as an exclusive retreat, where tranquillity meets luxury. Perfectly designed for couples seeking a romantic escape but with good access to the lake when the fishing bug strikes, these are designated as adults-only lodges.

Each of the seven lodges has been given a different name and its own distinctive décor, ensuring a blend of modern comfort and nature’s beauty. With private outdoor hot tubs, stylish interiors and a peaceful secluded atmosphere, your stay promises pure relaxation and a chance to reconnect with the most important person in your life as well as connecting with a few big carp when the mood takes you.

Yellowrush Lodge

Finally, there’s the latest addition to the accommodation portfolio, Yellowrush Lodge. This versatile retreat designed to bring a larger group of people together in a space of harmony and inspiration. It stands as a symbol of community and gathering.

This five-bedroomed lodge sleeps 10 in all, so it’s the perfect choice for big groups and special events, from family reunions to celebrations and it’s even been known to host holistic and business retreats. With its expansive spaces, Yellowrush provides the ideal backdrop to create unforgettable memories together, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

The 4,000 square foot lodge comprises five bedrooms, two en-suites, a shared bathroom and extra toilet, two living rooms, a feature fireplace and a large kitchen dining room where guests simply love to gather and swap stories while preparing dinner. The specification is completed by a widescreen TV and DVD player in one of the two living rooms. When the weather plays ball, there’s also an inviting courtyard with a private hot tub and a barbecue for those al fresco get-togethers.