Fishery has big hopes

And Shaun and Sarah Smart, who run the Bishops Bowls Fishery, are even hoping to attract those who are new to the sport, as they offer equipment for hire and are planning to set up a structured educational programme.

Shaun, who has been a keen fisherman from a young age, said: “We searched for the right site for seven years before stumbling across Bishops Bowl Lakes.”

Sarah said: “At the time we didn’t realise the potential of the site, or its value to nature generally, and we are still learning from various specialists in their fields about the valuable flora and fauna we have here.”

Shaun said he and his wife try to ensure that everyone enjoys their visit, adding: “This obviously usually involves catching fish, but because the surroundings are so unique, feedback from customers includes comments about a relaxing peaceful day away from it all.

“We take any feedback received very seriously.”

The couple have worked hard to address the poor reputation the fishery had previously had by networking with local angling clubs and fishermen, improving access to the lakes, restocking and reorganising them.

Sarah said: “The business has developed ahead of our expectations, albeit slightly differently than we had planned. In our second year, gross profit increased by just under 50 per cent, and to date, year three looks as though similar increases will be achieved.

“We are still welcoming back anglers who haven’t been to Bishops Bowl for a number of years and from the feedback we have received, their experience has been a positive one.

“It seems that fishing remains very popular, probably due to its relatively low cost - only £7 for an adult to spend up to 14-and-a-half hours fishing.”

The couple have, in the past two months, opened a tackle and bait shop and café, a year ahead of schedule.

They are hoping that an education programme can set their fishery apart from others.

By the end of the year, Shaun and Sarah want to ensure that there is a constant supply of fish stocks, buying cheaper but smaller stocks to grow on onsite, but also by breeding their own fry from brood stock.

They ultimately hope to build a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar and possible holiday lodges as well.

Sarah said: “The site is very diverse, catering for all types of coarse fishing. What better change from weekly office work than spending a day on the bank of a stunning lake?”

The fishery is open from Monday to Thursday from 7am to 8.30pm and from Friday to Sunday from 6am to 8.30pm during the summer months.

To find out more, call 07970 196 044 or 612379, email [email protected] or go online.