Blue Lias at Barstones Lakes is a single, dedicated carp water near Langar in Nottinghamshire, set in the wider Vale of Belvoir countryside. It suits anglers who prefer a focused session on one lake rather than bouncing between multiple options, and who are comfortable reading a relatively intimate water. The lake is best approached by those with at least some experience of modern carp tactics, as it can be rewarding but is not a guaranteed “runs” venue.
The lake itself is modest in size, generally described as a small to medium water rather than a big pit, with all fishing from the banks. Precise acreage and depths are not widely published, but anglers report a fairly traditional mixed profile: shallower margins shelving into deeper water towards the middle. There are a few discernible changes in depth, with gentle bars and softer gullies rather than dramatic drop‑offs, so careful plumbing or leading around is worthwhile. Natural banks, some marginal cover and the odd slightly stronger feature line help to break the water up. Swim numbers are limited and spaced around the perimeter, giving each angler a defined area while still allowing fish to move freely between lines.
The stock is centred on carp, with a mix of commons and mirrors forming the bulk of the fishing. From available catch reports and general reputation, most fish appear to sit in the low- to mid-double range, with a reasonable chance of better carp for those who put time into location and approach. There are likely a few more established residents above this bracket, but the water is not widely publicised as a top-end specimen venue. Instead, it offers a balanced stock where bites are attainable without huge numbers of small fish.
Success at Blue Lias tends to reward good watercraft over purely static “sit and wait” fishing. Finding the right depth and any subtle feature lines is often more important than rigidly fishing set spots. As with many small to medium carp lakes in the Midlands, fish movement and feeding areas can shift noticeably between seasons, with margins and shallower water more productive in warmer months and deeper areas coming into play in colder periods. Angling pressure is present, particularly at busy times, so quieter approaches, sensitive casting and thoughtful line lay can make a tangible difference.
The atmosphere at Blue Lias – Barstones Lakes leans more towards a straightforward, angling-focused environment than a heavily commercial complex. Being a single carp water gives it a self-contained feel, where most anglers are on similar missions and sessions are relatively calm. It is neither completely wild nor heavily manicured; instead it sits somewhere in between, with enough comfort to be practical but a natural enough setting to feel like a proper fishing trip rather than a purely managed venue.
Practical notes
– Ticket/access: Information on exact access (day ticket, membership, or booking) is not consistently published; contact the fishery directly before travelling.
– Facilities: Basic angling facilities may be available; confirm current provision (parking, toilets, etc.) in advance.
– Rules: Expect standard modern carp fishery requirements (unhooking mats, suitable nets, fish care) and possible bait and rig restrictions; always obtain and follow the latest fishery rules on arrival.
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Description
Blue Lias at Barstones Lakes is a single, dedicated carp water near Langar in Nottinghamshire, set in the wider Vale of Belvoir countryside. It suits anglers who prefer a focused session on one lake rather than bouncing between multiple options, and who are comfortable reading a relatively intimate water. The lake is best approached by those with at least some experience of modern carp tactics, as it can be rewarding but is not a guaranteed “runs” venue.
The lake itself is modest in size, generally described as a small to medium water rather than a big pit, with all fishing from the banks. Precise acreage and depths are not widely published, but anglers report a fairly traditional mixed profile: shallower margins shelving into deeper water towards the middle. There are a few discernible changes in depth, with gentle bars and softer gullies rather than dramatic drop‑offs, so careful plumbing or leading around is worthwhile. Natural banks, some marginal cover and the odd slightly stronger feature line help to break the water up. Swim numbers are limited and spaced around the perimeter, giving each angler a defined area while still allowing fish to move freely between lines.
The stock is centred on carp, with a mix of commons and mirrors forming the bulk of the fishing. From available catch reports and general reputation, most fish appear to sit in the low- to mid-double range, with a reasonable chance of better carp for those who put time into location and approach. There are likely a few more established residents above this bracket, but the water is not widely publicised as a top-end specimen venue. Instead, it offers a balanced stock where bites are attainable without huge numbers of small fish.
Success at Blue Lias tends to reward good watercraft over purely static “sit and wait” fishing. Finding the right depth and any subtle feature lines is often more important than rigidly fishing set spots. As with many small to medium carp lakes in the Midlands, fish movement and feeding areas can shift noticeably between seasons, with margins and shallower water more productive in warmer months and deeper areas coming into play in colder periods. Angling pressure is present, particularly at busy times, so quieter approaches, sensitive casting and thoughtful line lay can make a tangible difference.
The atmosphere at Blue Lias – Barstones Lakes leans more towards a straightforward, angling-focused environment than a heavily commercial complex. Being a single carp water gives it a self-contained feel, where most anglers are on similar missions and sessions are relatively calm. It is neither completely wild nor heavily manicured; instead it sits somewhere in between, with enough comfort to be practical but a natural enough setting to feel like a proper fishing trip rather than a purely managed venue.
Practical notes
– Ticket/access: Information on exact access (day ticket, membership, or booking) is not consistently published; contact the fishery directly before travelling.
– Facilities: Basic angling facilities may be available; confirm current provision (parking, toilets, etc.) in advance.
– Rules: Expect standard modern carp fishery requirements (unhooking mats, suitable nets, fish care) and possible bait and rig restrictions; always obtain and follow the latest fishery rules on arrival.
Blue Lias - Barstones Lakes Rules
