Steam Mills Lake

Address

Cinderford GL14 3JJ, United Kingdom

Fishery Information

This fishery is run by Royal Forest of Dean Angling Club.

Steam Mills Lake, located in Cinderford Linear Park and bordering Cinderford College, is the largest and deepest water among the RFODAC Club’s waters. The lake reaches depths of 40-50 ft in some areas, a result of its former use as an open-cast mine.

The lake is leased from Forestry England by RFODAC and can be accessed using FE roads and tracks. Two access points are available: from the B4227 Broadmoor Road or the A4136 Mitchedean to Coleford road.

To reach the lake car park from Cinderford, turn up the track immediately adjacent to Cinderford MG Garage from Broadmoor Road. Pass Abbey Recycling (scrap yard) and continue on the track for approximately 500 yards. The car park will be on the right. Alternatively, from the main A4136, pass the set of lights north of Cinderford heading towards Coleford and take a left into the old Northern United Colliery. Follow the track for about half a mile, and the car park will be on the left. There is another car park on the opposite side of the track if the one closest to the lake is full. Please be cautious when driving on the tracks as they can be rough, rutted, and prone to man-sized potholes, especially after wet weather or heavy forestry traffic.

Steam Mills Lake features a circular path around it and offers around 50 fishing platforms. Three platforms near the car park are specifically designed for disabled anglers.

Night fishing is permitted at Steam Mills Lake, but additional rules apply, and a night fishing levy is payable. For more information, please refer to the “Membership” section on the website.

The lake is regularly used by the Club for matches, so it is recommended to check the website or Facebook page before making any plans.

What size do the fish go to?

Steam Mills Lake boasts a variety of fish species, including carp exceeding 20 lbs, bream up to 6 lbs, tench up to 7 lbs, as well as roach, rudd, chub, perch, eel, and a few brown trout. There are rumors of some very large carp in the lake.

What tactics work well?

Steam Mills Lake allows the use of ground bait and most particle baits. However, artificial baits, barbed hooks, and braided mainline are not permitted, even when carp fishing. Anglers can employ various tactics depending on the target species and conditions of the lake.

What facilities are on site?

The lake offers a car park with spaces available near the lake. The car park near the lake has three platforms specifically designed for disabled anglers. As the information does not mention additional facilities, it is advisable to bring along any necessary equipment, supplies, and amenities needed for a day of fishing.

Is parking available?

Yes, there is parking available at Steam Mills Lake. The lake has a car park located close to the fishing area. If the car park closest to the lake is full, there is an additional car park on the opposite side of the track. Please ensure that parking does not obstruct the track or access to the lake.