Billericay fishing

Wayne Simpson Treasurer: Allison Green Secretary: Sarah Thompson Membership Secretary: Samantha Wilson Match Secretary: Mark Davies Conservation Officer: John Johnson Bailiffs: Colin Evans, Geoff Latham, Steve Robertson, David Turner The Billericay Fishing Club is a well-established angling club that has been serving anglers in Essex for 65 years. Located in Braintree, the club has developed its site over the past nearly 50 years, transforming it into one of the finest fisheries in the county.

The club owns a complex of two lakes and over a mile of river fishing. Both lakes have flat and firm perimeters with a short incline down from the car park, making it easily accessible for anglers. The average depth of the lakes ranges from 4ft to 24ft. Anglers are allowed to use a maximum of two rods at a time.

The fishery is known for its diverse range of fish species. While it contains a good head of Carp, up to 28lb, it also offers excellent fishing for Roach, Rudd, Perch, and Bream. The small lake has recently introduced Tench, while the Pike and Carp have been relocated to the Big lake, resulting in improved fishing conditions. The best Bream in the lakes weigh around 6 lb, and it is common to catch bags of up to 40 lb.

The club's venue, Straits Mill in Braintree, offers a secure car park at the end of a drive from the main gates. From the car park, paths slope down to the lakes, with grass paths surrounding the lakes and river. These paths are regularly maintained and repaired, ensuring a pleasant fishing experience.

Anglers should note that bailiffs visit the venue daily at varying times to inspect club cards and fishing licences. It is important to have these documents with you, as failure to present them may result in being asked to leave the fishery. Additionally, the club organises work parties on most Mondays, and members are welcome to join and contribute to maintenance activities.

Facilities at Straits Mill include separate male and female brick-built flush toilets and access to drinking water. The venue is fully fenced, with a designated car park. Well-behaved dogs are allowed on the premises as long as owners clean up after them. However, night fishing is not permitted.

To ensure a pleasant fishing experience for all members, the club has established a set of fishery rules. These rules include restrictions on early access to the water, designated parking areas, and a maximum of two rods per member. The gate must be kept locked at all times, and unauthorised fishing in the stock pond is strictly prohibited.

The Billericay Fishing Club also holds an Annual General Meeting in March, where members are welcome to attend. The meeting covers club business and is followed by the presentation of prizes, trophies, and certificates to both senior and junior members. The club is run by a dedicated management committee, headed by the president, Derek Howard.

For 65 years, the Billericay Fishing Club has provided anglers in Essex with a quality fishing experience. With its well-maintained lakes and river fishing, diverse fish species, and dedicated management committee, the club continues to be a popular choice for fishing enthusiasts in Braintree and the surrounding areas.