Wales is a land of mountains, valleys, and rolling green countryside—but it’s also a dream destination for anglers. From ancient wild carp pools high in the hills to purpose-built specimen fisheries with carp pushing over 40 lb, Wales offers some of the best and most varied carp fishing in the UK. Whether you’re a beginner, a seasoned specimen hunter, or simply looking for a relaxing fishing holiday, there’s a pool here with your name on it.
Below, we’ll take a look at ten of the top carp fishing venues across North, Mid and South Wales, giving you an insight into what makes each of them special.
1. White Springs Fishery (Pontarddulais, South Wales)
White Springs is often described as the “Mecca” of Welsh carp fishing—and for good reason. With five well-stocked lakes, including specimen waters where carp regularly exceed 40 lb, this complex attracts anglers from across the UK. The carp fishing here is not just about the size of the fish, but also the variety: mirrors, commons, ghost carp, and even the occasional koi make an appearance.
Facilities are excellent, with secure parking, an on-site tackle shop, and the option to stay in cabins or lodges. If you’re after a serious carp fishing holiday in South Wales, White Springs should be at the top of your list.
2. Cefn Mably Lakes (Cardiff/Newport area)
Just a short drive from Cardiff, Cefn Mably is a modern carp fishing venue with a reputation for both comfort and quality angling. The fishery features six specimen lakes and two coarse lakes, with carp running to around 37 lb. The standout feature here is the accommodation: stylish lakeside cabins where you can fish directly from your doorstep.
This makes Cefn Mably a great choice if you want to combine a relaxing fishing break with a few home comforts. It’s also a good spot for groups of anglers looking for a weekend away without having to travel too far.
3. Spring Rock Fishery (Mid Wales)
Tucked away in the Welsh countryside, Spring Rock is a smaller, boutique-style fishery perfect for anglers who prefer a quieter, more exclusive experience. The 2.5-acre specimen lake is limited to just six anglers at a time, ensuring plenty of water and peace for each visitor.
The carp average between 14 and 30 lb, and there are also crucian and mirror carp to target. Accommodation comes in the form of luxury log pods right on the bank, which are especially handy for overnight sessions. This is an ideal fishery if you’re looking for a calm and scenic setting, rather than the bustle of larger commercial waters.
4. Gyrn Castle Fishery (Flintshire, North Wales)
For something a little different, Gyrn Castle Fishery offers carp fishing in the grounds of a historic estate. Set among beautiful woodlands, the two lakes here are as picturesque as they come. Despite the setting, the fishing is very affordable, with day tickets starting from as little as £5.
The lakes are stocked with carp, perch, and rudd, and while you won’t find record-breaking fish here, the combination of history, atmosphere, and accessibility make it one of North Wales’ hidden gems.
5. Gweryd Lakes Fishery (Mold, North Wales)
Gweryd Lakes is another well-regarded venue in the north, with a reputation for both size and variety. Carp here include commons, mirrors, ghosties and koi, with many fish comfortably over 20 lb. The fishery has also invested heavily in facilities: covered pegs, shelters with log burners, and excellent accessibility for disabled anglers.
This makes it a great year-round venue—whether you’re braving the winter or enjoying a summer session. With over 400 specimen carp in the water, your chances of landing a decent fish are very strong.
6. Commonwood Fishery (Wrexham area, North Wales)
Commonwood is a large complex with nine different lakes catering to all types of anglers, from beginners to seasoned carpers. The jewel in the crown is the “Snowdon” specimen pool, where fish tip the scales at up to 40 lb.
One of the key strengths of Commonwood is variety: if you fancy a day catching mixed coarse fish you can do that, or you can settle into one of the carp lakes for a proper big-fish hunt. Night fishing is also allowed, which makes it popular with anglers who enjoy longer sessions.
7. Llyn Y Gors Fishery (Anglesey, North Wales)
On the island of Anglesey sits Llyn Y Gors, a fishery that has been a favourite with Welsh anglers for decades. The complex has a range of lakes suited to different skill levels, including specimen waters where carp run well into the 30s. For beginners and families, there are also pleasure lakes where you can catch smaller carp and other coarse species with ease.
The on-site tackle shop and facilities make this a convenient place to fish, and its location on Anglesey means you can combine a fishing trip with a seaside holiday.
8. Pant-Y-Llyn (Wild Carp Lake, Mid Wales)
For anglers looking for something completely unique, Pant-Y-Llyn offers the chance to catch truly wild carp. This remote mountain lake is home to some of the last wild, unstocked carp in Britain. Fishing here isn’t about size—the carp are generally much smaller than those in commercial waters—but about the experience.
Surrounded by hills and completely off the beaten track, Pant-Y-Llyn feels like stepping back in time. It’s a challenging venue, but one every serious carp angler should experience at least once.
9. New Celtic Lakes (Lampeter, Mid Wales)
New Celtic Lakes is best known for its catfish, some of which exceed 60 lb, but it’s also a strong carp fishery. The waters here are home to some excellent specimen carp, and the chance to target both species makes it a real draw for predator and carp anglers alike.
The fishery has grown in popularity over the years, with well-maintained pegs and facilities making it suitable for longer sessions. If you’re looking for a venue that offers something a bit different, this is a great option.
10. Hazel Court Ponds (Cowbridge, South Wales)
Rounding off the list is Hazel Court Ponds, a family-friendly complex of six lakes in South Wales. The specimen lake holds carp up to 25 lb, while another dedicated lake is stocked with catfish up to 35 lb.
The venue is well set up for accessibility, with parking, bait supplies, and disabled-friendly platforms. This makes it a good choice if you’re planning a day out with friends or family members who may not be regular anglers.
Final Thoughts
From the wild, untouched beauty of Pant-Y-Llyn to the modern facilities of Cefn Mably and White Springs, carp fishing in Wales offers something for everyone. The diversity of venues is what makes it special: you can chase monster 40 lb fish in a well-managed specimen lake one weekend, and hike into the hills for wild carp the next.
When planning your trip, it’s worth considering what type of experience you want. Do you want a comfortable fishing holiday with cabins and good facilities? Or are you chasing the romance of a hidden pool with untamed fish? Wales can provide both, and often within just a couple of hours’ drive.
One last tip—don’t forget your Rod Licence, which is required for all coarse fishing in Wales. Once that’s sorted, all that’s left is to grab your gear, pick your pool, and head out for what could be the session of a lifetime.
