How much bait will I need?
It all depends the time of the season, the weather conditions and the temperatures. All those factors are essential and determine the fish feeding activity.
What bait do you recommend?
We recommend our new specially designed boilie. Please check the ´Bait´ tab for all information. Also, partiblend and pellets are great to attract the carp on your spots.
If you supply bait on site, will I be able to get more bait during my stay if I need it?
Of course, we've got plenty of our boilies (10,14,20mm), matching wafters, carp pellets and partiblend in stock. You can pre-order by email or/and ask me for some more during your week if needed.
Is my UK carp set-up suitable for use at your lake?
Yes, but you need a bigger mat. Eurosize is a minimum to welcome a 30kg carp. Please make sure to bring a proper big well-padded unhooking mat.
What hook size do you recommend?
6 is the very best for here. But number 8 is better for a single fake corn or a 10mm boilie. Make sure the metal is strong enough. Barbless hooks only.
What breaking strain of main line do you recommend?
We strongly recommend a minimum of 15lb mainline. Mono or fluorocarbon only. No braid, except for hooklink. There are swan mussels and rocks and gravel, so you need something strong.
What is the surface of the swims - can I use bank sticks?
Yes, all swims are natural, you can use rod pods or bank sticks. In the summer months, it could be harder to use bank sticks.
Are any special tactics required?
Nothing special usually, just be very accurate in your baiting and your placement. Sometimes, 3 meters can make a big difference.
Do you recommend use of a bait boat?
Yes, we recommend bait boats at Old Oaks. Bait boats are handy to drop a lot of bait and/or drop your rig under overhanging branch.
Can I drive all the way around the lake in order to unload?
Yes, the very last peg is only 10 yards away from your car.
Is the lake secure? Can we leave our gear on the bankside if we go out?
Yes, whilst your belongings remain your responsibility, the lake is as safe as we can make it.
Can we drink the tap water?
Yes, the water tap in the cabin is drinkable.
Do you have UK plug points?
French plugs are in the cabin, please bring your own adaptors.
How far are the nearest supermarket / petrol / tabac?
2 min away, in the village of Spay, you will find a minimarket, a butcher, a baker, a cash machine, tabacco, petrol and automatic pizza machine. 5 min away, there is a 'Super U' supermarket.