Orchard Lakes — Attraction in New Forest

Took my son to his fishing lesson. His instructor is great. The reason for the one star? When approaching the lake, was approached by a very rude, and unfriendly man who didn't identify himself as a member of staff,he could have been anyone, who was apparently waving at me, then said to me, you stop when I wave at you. which i didn't see. He then asked what ticket i had, still in a rude manner.I asked him not to speak to me like that, he kept going on and on about the waving,I then told him the conversation was over, he then told the instructor he didn't want me on the property, still with no idea who he was. That's fine, I dont particularly want to go back. Whoever he was, he needs to learn how to talk to people properly. Not impressed, and very angry, for doing nothing more than driving onto the land to drop my son off. There were no signs up to tell drivers they needed to stop at the entrance before proceeding, half of the carpark leading to the shop was blocked, all I was doing was parking up alongside the other vehicles. Im not a mind reader and didn't deserve the reception I...

Had my second visit to Orchard Lakes this weekend and fished Match Lake again in preparation / practice for actually matches coming up in the next few weeks. With a strong cold wind I was guided to select one of the pegs at the top of the lake with cover from the hedging and landed on Peg 15 with a fish over to a bank and lily pad area. Really good advice and service from the guys in the shop which is well stocked.

As expected at this time of year it was hard going initially fishing over to the old/rotted lilies which will soon start to spring into life again - but were sufficient to apparently hold the F1s. Eventually it got going and I ended the session with just under 40 fish and about 25lbs. Three nice 2-3lb carp, F1s, Ide and Crusians.

The complex is great, certainly looking forward to fishing Match Lake as the weather and fishing improves, you can park behind your peg and the shop, toilets and soon to be completed cafe are...

Jusrlt got home from a brilliant days fishing with my 2 sons and 1 of their mates. From the moment we arrived you could see this was a well managed and beautiful fishery.

All lakes were well signposted and in easy reach, car parking was ample. The well stocked tackle shop and cafe were an excellent addition.

It's good to see the cafe was well used by people not fishing and was dog friendly.

Having visited other day ticket venues in the area, this was far and above the best we have visited by a country mile.

I will not be renewing my current club membership. I think Orchard Lakes will provide all my fishing needs with the 6 lakes on offer and and the wide array of species available.

Thanks for a...