Quick update on the professional netting we had planned.

 

WHAT HAPPENED

A curve ball or two meant it didn't go ahead. Super frustrating, but we're focusing on the rest of the work and we've figured out new plans.

Who said lake life was going to be easy!

 

WHAT THIS MEANS

We were hoping to get accurate stock numbers and remove smaller fish to optimise the biomass (we've already started that process by removing 1000's tonnes of silt to increase the water volume and give the carp space to grow). The netting is still absolutely in the plan - we're just not there yet.

So for this season, we're working with the historical catch data we have (and there's plenty of it from over the years) to give us a good picture of what's in the lake. The stock info on the website reflects what we know from that data.

 

WILL WE TRY AGAIN?

Yes - but we're doing it at the end of the 2026 season.

Here's why that makes sense:

  • Timing & logistics - There are a couple of things we just can't guarantee for this year: the weather has to be right, and we have to get the right people available at the right time.
  • Fish welfare - The dredging work will have put some stress on the carp and we still have more to do, (building new swims ready for the start of the 2026 season). The welfare of our carp comes first.
  • The real advantage - The real benefit of waiting until the end of next season is that when we net, we can chip the carp at the same time.

This means:

  • You'll know exactly which fish you're after and which one you've just caught
  • We can track individual fish growth rates accurately
  • You'll always have the most up-to-date info on weights and catches

We'd love to have been able to do everything this year, but it's just not realistic in terms of time and impact on the carp. End of 2026 season . . . . That's the plan - net then chip all at the same time, so it's properly done.

 

THE BOTTOM LINE

The fishing for 2026 will be excellent. We know what fish are in the lake from years of solid catch data. The carp are in great condition. And everything else we're doing - the dredging, new swims, house bait - is going to make a real difference.

We'll keep you posted!

James & Liza