FISHERY OF THE WEEK
Shearsby Valley
SOMETIMES a revamp and a little bit of TLC can rejuvenate a venue – and that’s exactly what’s happened at Shearsby Valley Lakes, with prolific sport on the cards once again.
The Leicestershire complex has undergone a major transformation, with all four waters given a substantial makeover. It was a move driven by an unexplained drop in form several years ago, with the owners digging deep into why anglers had suddenly begun to struggle.
Netting surveys revealed all the lakes were teeming with healthy fish, but rather than rest on their laurels and make excuses, it was decided that reshaping the layout would make the shoals more settled.
The big revamp
What was once known as
Alder Lake has now been split into two, with the newcomers named Hurricane and Tornado. All the islands have been removed along with the silt, with impressive stocks of carp to double figures, F1s and barbel now present.
Willow has also had the islands removed, with mixed fishing at the heart of the equation. The lake holds lots of silverfish including bream, crucians and orfe alongside small carp.
Last but not least is Sunset, which has a similar stocking ethos to Willow.
Dozens of new pegs, firm pathways and stairways that provide easy access have been installed, with additional car parks to shorten the walks to your favourite swim.
There’s little doubt the complex looks the part, and when you delve a little deeper into the quality of the fishing, you soon realise the upgrade has massively benefited that too.
Bites galore
The fishery has just reopened its doors after a prolonged closure due to lockdown, with the final touches to the construction being completed during that time.
Since anglers were welcomed back, the fishery has produced the goods in regal fashion, with big nets being reported from all the lakes.
Venue owner Dan Hull has even taken time out from his busy schedule to wet a line, and he told Angling Times: “We’ve worked really hard to make the venue better than ever before, and it’s been great to see so many people enjoying what we’ve created.
“Lots of big carp and F1s have been coming out of Hurricane and Tornado, while Sunset and Willow have been a bite-a-chuck from just about every species you can think of.”
One bait wonder
There’s no need to cram your side tray with lots of bait
options. No matter where you set out your stall, a couple of pints of maggots will do the job.
Feed little and often by hand or use a catapult on Sunset or Willow, resorting to a small cup on Hurricane and Tornado when fishing on the pole.
When it comes to rigs, balanced set-ups will help you land anything that swims, and 0.14mm mainline to a 0.12mm hooklength and a size 16 hook will score.
If you haven’t been to Shearsby Valley for a while, you’ll be amazed at the transformation next time you give it a bash.