Astbury Water Park

Description
Astbury is a large water at around 45 acres. Originally a sand quarry it contains quite a good head of pike and large numbers of perch. With its crystal clear water, depths can vary from 2 to 40 ft with a range of flats, drop offs and sand bars. There are no reports of massive fish ever being caught, but there is the chance of catching a few double figure pike and the perch can reach 1lb plus. Astbury is also used for water sports including sail boarding and scuba diving so there are areas where fishing is not allowed, but due to the size of the water this is not a problem.

Tactics
All methods seem to be productive, due to water clarity lures tend to work well for both pike and perch. Fishing at range with baits is not necessary as the drop offs are only around 10yards out; both pike and perch patrol along these features. Most baits are productive, but due to the clear water naturals tend to produce more fish. If you are using sea deads then lamprey, herring and sardines seem to work best. The most productive times are dawn and dusk, both species feed more confidently during the low light levels.

Tickets
Astbury is day ticket water, priced at £5 for two rods, obtained from bank or lodge. Phone 01260 297172 for details.

Location
From Newcastle, head towards Congleton along the A34 to Astbury, the water is on the right about 100yds past the JET petrol station.

Back