SALMONHUTCH LAKES,
UTON, NEAR CREDITON
BACK TO PRIVATE LAKES
DESCRIPTION (Brochure from 01363 772749)
This is a really good value day ticket water, with three medium sized, very pleasant, natural lakes stocked with carp (to mid 20lbs), tench (to 9lbs) and rudd ( to 1lb and growing fast). For readers old enough to remember, this place featured featured in the cartoon book "Mr Crabtree goes fishing". Fishing can be a bit slow at times, so to pass some time look out for the resident Kingfishers. The geese are very adept at stealing bait, so keep it covered. Use boilies, maggots, sweetcorn, luncheon meat, bread. Floating dog biscuit or mixer works really well if fished early on quiet mornings in the summer. Good location for overnight trips with kids.
The first lake is mostly stocked with very large carp – you will need to be well equipped and pretty patient.
The second lake holds a mixed head of carp and tench, plus rudd that can be a nuisance if your bait is too small. This is the easiest lake of the three and is usually pretty reliable. Please take care if you are fishing near to where the power lines cross the lake.
The third lake holds carp, tench, rudd and tends to be a bit patchy. However, if its fishing OK, then the area near the fallen tree is usually the best. I avoid the far end of this lake at weekends due to the noise from the near by Crediton gun club!
Local rules apply - please abide by them - barbless hooks, minimum line strength etc. See the notice boards at the wooden shed in the car park for details.
GETTING THERE
Take the A377 from Exeter towards Crediton.
Just after the Crediton town boundary sign, pass the Shell garage on the left and take the left turn immediately after the garage ( Signposted to Crediton Station ). Across the level crossing gates, 200 yards later cross a narrow river bridge, then up a slight hill for about 100 yards to cross roads. Bear right.
Follow the road for about half a mile, then cross a small hump back bridge. Take the first lane on the right after crossing the bridge – look out for the Coarse Fishing sign in the hedgerow. Continue for half a mile (watch it – the lane gets pretty narrow). Take the first lane on the right, after passing a farmhouse and negotiating a very tight "S" bend. The entrance to the lakes is on the left, 200 yards further on, and is well sign posted. (If you come to a level crossing gate, you’ve missed the entrance, so go back 100 yards).
FACILITIES, etc.
Grassed area for car parking. There is a small camp site next to the first lake, with excellent wash and toilet facilities, which anglers are allowed to use. Fish this place and you can freshen up before you leave, which is nice. But be careful. The Mrs may suspect something if you return home smelling of rose scented soap. "Of course I went fishing - where do you think I was ?"..."You expect me to believe that - you smell like a boudoir " .... Thwack !!! etc, etc.
The second lake has a flat concrete path along part of one side, to provide access for wheelchair users. Lifebouys at all three lakes.
I think this water is terrific value. Start fishing and pretty soon the bailiff will be around to collect the fee, have a chat about the weather, and give you helpful advice if you ask him. Recommended.