Our website features an outstanding collection of carp lakes in France, and each one is a credit to the dedicated people who run them. With this in mind, we spoke to Barry, the owner of Golden Carp Lake, and asked him a few questions, to learn more about his journey.
1. When did you discover carp fishing and how did you come to be here at the lake?
I fished for carp since the age of 5 or 6, in South Africa. Since then I’ve fished for several sponsors, including Nash and Sticky Baits.
It was always my objective to have my own lake, and I finally found what is now The Golden Carp Lake, in 2014, after living in France since 2004.
2. What’s the best and worst part of being the owner?
Best part? Definitely seeing clients breaking their PB’S with 50’s, 60’s and the occasional 70lber.
Worst part? Maintenance. A lot goes on on a daily basis, and behind the scenes. Something I was definitely naive about before owning my own lake.
3. What would you say is the best feature of your lake?
There are several standout features but the fish and the facilities sit firmly at the top of the list.
The carp are big healthy and stunning specimens and the facilities are exactly what I dreamed of during my years travelling and fishing across Europe.
4. When people arrive is there anything they are surprised by?
Definitely the size of the lake. It must come across as small online and on social media, as everyone always come out with “it’s a lot bigger than we imagined”.
5. What is the most common mistake you see anglers make at your lake?
Choosing swims before they arrive. Weather affects fish. The lake is big. With varying depths and features. The fish move dependant on all of these factors, and the time of year. It’s always best to get here, then choose a swim based on the movements of the fish at the time.
Oh, and bait. Big baits are essential! 14mm boilies and 6mm pellet are a sure-fire way to spend your time catching huge roach and bream! We sell a custom 15mm pellet that has proved itself for over 10 years now.
20mm hook baits and freebies are essential.
6. Finally, what is the one most important piece of advice you’d give to anglers visiting your lake soon?
I am here to help you catch fish. It’s frustrating for all when anglers arrive with a pre-determined strategy, bait and swim in mind. The lake and the fish are very particular. Be open to adapt, based on the help and information I can offer.
About Golden Carp Lake
Set in the Dordogne region of south west France, Golden Carp Lake is a 12 acre angler’s paradise surrounded by 20 acres of unspoiled woodland. The venue benefits from almost unbeatable angling facilities with a well equipped social lodge located just 20 metres from all three double swims.
The lake holds a thriving stock of large carp with the current lake record tipping the scales at over 70lb. This is not a runs water by any means but the quality and size of the carp on offer will more than satisfy the most serious of anglers.
Guests also have the option to hire the lakeside wooden cabin which offers comfortable accommodation for up to four people with one double and one twin bedroom. The cabin comes with its own private swim directly outside along with a private above ground swimming pool for relaxing between sessions.
Find out more about Golden Carp Lake here.
Read more of our interviews with owners here – Interview with a Lake Owner Series.
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