Moor Mill Pits, St Albans

Address

Hyde Ln, Park Street, St Albans AL2 2LE, United Kingdom

Fishery Information

Tucked just a couple miles outside of St. Albans city centre, the Moor Mill Fishery is comprised of four fishing lakes. The mature gravel pits were dug in the early 1950s, with initial ownership under the purview of the London Anglers Association.

A dozen years ago, ownership was passed to the Verulam Angling Club.

The Island Lake is the first on the complex. So named due to a dozen islands, this spot is speckled with designated swims and lots of bankside cover.

The Leather Lake is named after the second largest leather carp in the UK that once roamed these waters. A beefy 44-pounder nicknamed Toadless, the lovable carp sadly passed away a few years ago. The lake in her honour is a beauty, but it does get weedy in the summer.

The Pike Pit is, ironically enough, not noted for pike. This is the deepest lake on the property, but the Club notes it is also the least productive.

The School Pit is shallow, with a maximum depth of just three feet. There are only two to three fishable swims, but plenty of unorthodox spots from which to find sport.

What size do the fish go to?

The average carp in Island Lake amounts to 16 to 18 pounds, with plenty of 20-pounders showing up. The largest confirmed specimen weighs in over 30 pounds.

Leather Lake holds stock of carp ranging up to 25 pounds, with some bream in the double-digits.

Pike Pit has 30 to 40 carp ranging just under 30 pounds.

The biggest specimen carp in School Pit is in the mid-20s range. Nicknamed Two Tone, she is considered the most beautiful carp at the Moor Mill Fishery.

What tactics work well?

Predator fishing is popular at Island Lake in the winter months.

Fishing School Pit is a matter of knowing the terrain and acting accordingly. This spot can be weedy and full of undercut margins and overhanging banks, so be mindful of casting and get creative.