Unfortunately we have seen an increase in serious mouth damage on a number of our very valuable Carp at both Ongar No 1 and Old Moreton. Observations by ODAS Bailiffs has shown this to be caused by anglers fishing over or very near lily pads – Swims 18 & 19 at No 1 in particular – with surface baits. The fish having taken the surface bait dive down into the lily pads requiring the angler to drag the fish through the pads to get them out into clear water to allow netting.
Normally when fishing in open water you can tire the fish and so the damage does not occur to their mouths.
When you are fishing close-in with a heavy rod using 12lbs BS line (max) the fish will damage themselves as they are not tired and they use the lilies as cover.
Float fishing should also be away from the lilies as the same situation can also occur in the shallow lily pad areas.
Please be responsible. Stay alert. Do not wander off leaving your rods unattended.
Therefore ODAS have banned the use of surface floats within a distance of 10m from any lily pads and 10m from any bank at both fisheries until further notice.
Signs have been posted at the fisheries.