Willows Lake
Willows is the largest of the three lakes in the Rawlings Retreat complex. It has 35 pegs - of which 3 are wheelchair platforms - on its 2.5 acres, and is approximately triangular in shape. It is a shallow lake, mostly under 2m (6 feet) in depth. It is well stocked with carp, bream, tench and roach, with the occasional crucian. Many of the carp grow to double figures, making it a popular venue. As part of the Fishery Management plan, every few years the larger carp are re-located to other NAA lakes and replaced with smaller stock.
The water was dredged some years ago to increase depth and create what became known as "Ayling Island" in honour of the club chairman at the time. Because of the high density of carp stock, the water is almost completely weed free but quite turbid. There is usually some growth of "cabbages" and lilies in summer on the west bank. It responds well to method feeder and pop-up boilies for the carp. If you want to waggler fish for the carp you will have success but on the lighter tackle you may lose fish.
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