Birch Lake
Availability 3 Anglers
Birch Lake is a 2-acre natural water within The Famous Five complex, available for two to three anglers. It is the most varied lake on the complex in terms of species and offers a more traditional, exploratory style of fishing for anglers who enjoy working out the water for themselves.
The lake has a clay base with areas of silt and exposed gravel. There are natural fishing positions around the bank rather than heavily developed swims, giving Birch a more untouched and traditional feel. The lake also contains well-defined catfish nests and patrol routes, with many of the larger carp often found close to these areas.
Birch Lake was last netted in 2024 and is limed annually to support water quality and fish health. The next planned netting is scheduled for 2027. Between two and four new carp are added each year, helping to improve the stock while retaining the lake’s natural character.
Birch Lake anglers can pre-order bait before their session, with boilies, hookbaits, pellets and freshly prepared particle available through the complex. Bait options include products from Woody’s Baits, Karper France and Sticky Baits.
All particle and pellets must be supplied by the venue, ensuring that only correctly prepared bait enters the lake. The particle mix is prepared on-site from locally sourced maize and wheat and forms part of the regular feeding programme.
Please place bait orders at least 30 days before travelling. Tackle hire is available for those flying or travelling light, and the on-site village shop carries basic bait items, snacks, drinks and end tackle.
The Famous Five food package can be added to a Birch Lake holiday for guests who want to spend less time cooking and more time fishing. Breakfast and evening meals are freshly prepared and supplied throughout the week.
The package is currently £165 per adult per week, with a reduced rate of £120 per under-14. Lunch baguettes can be ordered separately, and individual meals may be available with at least 24 hours’ notice. Allergies and dietary requirements can be catered for when confirmed in advance.
Mandatory
- No more than three rods per angler
- Minimum 18lb mainline
- Minimum 35lb hooklink
- All rods must be at least 3lb test curve
- Barbless hooks only
- Use at least 18 inches of rig tubing
- Every setup must be fish safe and capable of releasing safely in the event of a breakage
- Bait boats may be used responsibly
- One-rod stalking is permitted where it can be done safely
- Carp above 40lb, all grass carp and catfish over 100lb must remain in the water for weighing and photography
- Keep the fishing areas, chalet and wider grounds clean
- Dispose of rubbish correctly using the bins provided
Forbidden
- No braid as a mainline, other than on a marker or spod rod
- No leadcore or leader materials
- No long-shank, bent or curved hooks
- No fixed, tethered or bolt-style rigs
- No plastic hookbaits
- No nuts except as a single hookbait
- No particle or pellets brought in from outside the venue
- Do not dump leftover bait into the lake before departure
- Rods must not be left fishing without an angler present
| Port | Distance |
|---|---|
| Calais | 329 miles |
| St. Malo | 76 miles |
| Caen | 125 miles |
| Cherbourge | 149 miles |
| Roscoff | 166 miles |
| Le Havre | 186 miles |
| Dieppe | 227 miles |
| Dunkirk | 350 miles |