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Predator Fishing Rules

© 2024 Albans lakes

1. Mono main line only with 25lb minimum breaking strain.
2. Dedicated catfishing rods, minimum 4lb test curve.
3. Cat care or similar to be in possession at all times.
4. Live baits are permitted up to 8 inches provided they are caught from the lake you are fishing.
5. 3 rods maximum per angler. Rods must not be left unattended in any circumstances.
6. Extra large unhooking mats or cradles must be used at all times. If only using a mat, a carp cradle must be in possession for accidental carp captures. A pegged out tarpaulin is also recommended in the landing area.
7. A water bucket must be ready in your landing area to douse mat and fish.
8. No fixed leads, leads must be able to break free with minimum force. Lead clips are acceptable.
9. An adequate landing net of 50 inches to be ready before fishing commences.
10. No catfish to be lifted above knee height and must be above unhooking mat at all times. Only weigh sling to be used to weigh fish.
11. Suitable hook link material, minimum of 45lb. Wire is not permitted. Barbed hooks are permitted but barbless is preferred. Single hook rigs only, no treble hooks permitted.
12. All fish to be returned immediately after weighing and being photographed. Catfish are not to be retained at any time.
13. Any damaged or injured catfish to be reported to the fishery manager or bailiff ASAP.

1. Pike fishing is only permitted on Willows Lake only from 1st October to 31st march.
2. Minimum 42” landing net.
3. X2 rod limit with minimum 2.5lb test curve.
4. Large padded unhooking mat.
5. Monofilament line only. Minimum 12lb breaking strain.
6. Wire traces only, minimum 20lb breaking strain and 18” length.
7. 1 or 2 semi-barbed treble hooks permitted. Size 6 maximum with a distance not exceeding 3” between hooks.
8. No lure fishing permitted.
9. Suitable unhooking equipment, ie long forceps, long nose pliers etc.
10. Live bait permitted up to 6”, & can only be used on 1 rod out of a 2 rod set-up. Live bait must be caught from Willows Lake (carp not permitted as live bait). Only shop bought dead baits are permitted.
11. When weighing a pike, a designated weigh sling is to be used and must be above a padded unhooking mat.
12. No pike to be lifted by the chin/gills.
13. When moving Pike to and from the lake, a landing net or designated weigh sling must be used.
14. No free lining permitted.
15. All fish to be returned to the water immediately after weighing and photographing. Pike are not to be retained at anytime.
16. Beginners or novices to fish with competent pike handlers for the safety of the fish and anglers.

For any extra information, please

contact the fishery manager on

                         tel: