Clockhouse Pool

As a valued member of our club, you will gain exclusive access to four exceptional fishing lakes situated across South West London. These lakes have been carefully selected to provide our members with a diverse range of angling opportunities. Allow us to introduce our newest addition for the 2023/24 Season: The Copse Pool.

The Copse Pool is the result of years of dedicated effort by our committee and other involved individuals. Previously neglected and overgrown, this venue underwent a thorough refurbishment to transform it into a thriving fishing spot. To enhance the fishing experience, the banks have been cleared, fences and access gates installed, and wood chip paths laid for convenient access. Extensive digging was carried out to increase depth in certain areas, remove islands, and widen and stabilize the banks, ensuring ease of machinery access in the future. Different swims were created, offering a variety of fishing spots. Floating fish refuge islands were strategically placed at the bridge end to provide a safe haven for fish, while anti-bird predation netting was installed in the out-of-bounds no fishing area, ensuring the fish have a protected space. Additionally, an underwater aeration system has been set up next to the floating islands at the bridge end, contributing to the overall health of the pool.

Thames Young Mariners, located in Ham, Richmond, offers a remarkable fishing experience on its sizeable lake, which is directly connected to the Thames by lock gates. While the lake primarily serves as an outdoor activity center, we have strict and limited access to this venue due to the involvement of children in various water sports. Our fishing days are predetermined and communicated through our website at the beginning of each month. Typically, most nights are available for fishing, while daytime fishing is more restricted.

The lake is naturally stocked by the Thames, making it a fascinating waterbody to explore. It’s like a mystery box, as you never know what you might catch. From Carp and Flounders to Mullet, Trout, Zander, Grass Carp, Pike, Perch, and Bream, the lake is home to a diverse range of species. If it swims, chances are it can be found there! Carp weighing up to 28.5 pounds have recently been caught, and the lake has seen Carp surpassing the 30-pound mark in the past. There’s even a near-record Zander weighing 17 pounds. Additionally, some impressively large Bream inhabit the lake.

Thames Young Mariners is open for fishing throughout the year, with no close season. It provides a unique opportunity to fish in a vibrant and ever-surprising environment.

Shadwells Pool, located in Barnes, South West London, is nestled within an area designated for outdoor sports, with a particular emphasis on athletics and football. Despite its proximity to these activities, the pool retains a serene and tranquil atmosphere.

This old and well-established estate lake spans approximately 1 ½ acres and is surrounded by lush trees and woodland. With depths reaching up to 5 feet and a predominantly silty bottom, it provides an inviting habitat for various fish species. There are a total of 23 swims available, including dedicated swims designed to accommodate disabled anglers. These swims offer convenient parking and easy access. Upon joining, disabled anglers receive a key and a club member’s disabled badge, which must be displayed in their car windscreen.

Shadwells Pool is a mixed fishery that boasts a healthy population of fish. Among its inhabitants, you can find some impressive Carp, with specimens weighing up to 32 pounds. The water also holds good-sized Roach, Tench, Bream, and Perch, adding to the diversity of angling opportunities.

Fishing at Shadwells Pool is open from April 1st to March 31st, covering the entire year. However, please note that there is a close season from December 21st to the end of February. To ensure the smooth operation of the water and the adherence to regulations, BMAPS bailiffs regularly patrol the area. These knowledgeable individuals are always available to offer advice on productive swims, tactics, or any other queries you may have.

Please be aware that Shadwells Pool is exclusively reserved for members, although day tickets are available for guests of members. This policy allows members to enjoy the benefits of a dedicated fishing environment while also accommodating occasional visitors.

In 2019, BMAPS acquired the fishing rights to the Potomac, a historic waterbody that had been neglected for several years and had become overgrown, requiring substantial restoration and care.

The origins of the Potomac can be traced back to the 1700s when it was originally known as “Cole’s Hole,” a clay pit. In the 1800s, the Rothschild family purchased the land and undertook a significant landscaping project, including the transformation of an old kiln into the striking Gothic Folly that stands there today.

At its fullest, the Potomac can reach depths of approximately 24 feet. The lake boasts a generous stock of carp, with the majority being Commons averaging around 12 to 14 pounds. Additionally, the lake is home to a thriving population of Pike, with rumors circulating of specimens exceeding 20 pounds. In fact, it is noteworthy that the British record for Pike was previously held at an impressive 38 pounds 4 ounces from this very water.

During the 2021/2022 Season, BMAPS introduced over 40 carp into the Potomac. These carp were sourced from a reservoir in Barnes and ranged in sizes, with the largest reaching approximately 23 pounds. A video capturing the memorable day of their introduction can be viewed by clicking here.

Continuing the efforts to enhance the fishery, the 2022/2023 Season saw the club introduce 5 Mirror Carp obtained from the renowned VS Fisheries, managed by Simon Scott. Among these introductions was a stunning Mirror Carp weighing 31 pounds, accompanied by two at 17 pounds and two at 15 pounds, further diversifying the carp population.

Night fishing is allowed at the Potomac by purchasing the Night Fishing add-on, enabling anglers to enjoy the tranquil ambiance and potential catches under the cover of darkness.

It is important to note that the Potomac is a member’s only water, providing exclusive access to club members. However, day tickets are now available for guests of members, allowing them to experience the unique fishing opportunities offered by this captivating venue.