Boyton

Boyton is the oldest reservoir on the farm, covering around 5 acres and sitting peacefully in a natural bowl, completely surrounded by mature trees. Of all the lakes on our books, Boyton is arguably the most peaceful, offering a truly secluded fishing experience and exceptionally low angling pressure.

The lake currently holds around 100 carp, with a fantastic mixture of established fish and fast-growing newer stock. The biggest mirror is now scraping 40lb, while the best common is an old original fish at 38lb, both recorded at winter weights. There are also 25 other thirties present, with the remainder of the stock made up of younger carp that are growing quickly.

Boyton is not an easy water, and its low angling pressure can actually make it more challenging to work out. The carp can be difficult to locate and, with plenty of natural food available, they certainly don't always need to feed on anglers' bait. For those prepared to put the time in and pay attention to what the water is telling you, however, the rewards can be exceptional.

The introduction of bait boats has opened up another dimension to the fishing, and the results of the top rods on the syndicate over the last two years demonstrate just what Boyton is capable of. Both recorded 50 carp each, proving that when you get the tactics and location right, the fishing can become surprisingly hectic.

Boyton is also used as the sump for the other reservoirs on the farm, meaning water levels naturally fluctuate depending on rainfall and irrigation demands. Combined with the lake's abundant natural food, this creates a constantly changing environment and plenty for the angler to think about.

For me personally, Boyton is a favourite. The combination of very low angling pressure, a mature setting, an abundance of natural food and a genuinely quality stock of carp makes it a fascinating water to fish. It may not give up its secrets easily, but that's exactly what makes catching one of its old originals or a big mirror so rewarding.

Boyton is part of the T1 ticket, alongside Chignal, Mashbury and Farmview. Together, they provide four very different waters — all on the same farm and within around a mile of each other. Boyton really is the forgotten gem of our portfolio.