Littlebourne Lakes is a renowned fishing club located in Canterbury, New Zealand. Managed by the Canterbury & District Angling Association, the club offers exceptional fishing opportunities in the beautiful Stour Valley. With a history dating back to 1928, the club has been providing anglers with access to extensive fisheries in the area.
The jewel of Littlebourne Lakes is Birch Lake, which is the largest of the three lakes in the club's waters. This picturesque lake is named after the Birch trees that line two of its three banks. It boasts excellent weed growth, with lilies and reed beds surrounding the margins. Anglers will find Carp weighing up to 25lbs and Tench up to 5lbs in this lake.
The best fishing spots are often found along the quiet and concealed margins. All permissible baits and methods, as outlined in the club's byelaws, are effective in catching the abundant fish here. Mornings and evenings tend to be the most productive times for fishing. Anglers are advised to use strong and well-balanced tackle due to the large and hard-fighting fish found in Birch Lake.
The Association also manages the historic stretch of the River Stour, which extends downstream from Fordwich Bridge to Plucks Gutter. This stretch of the river is leased from the Fordwich United Charities and is famous for its trout, as mentioned in Izaak Walton's book, “The Compleat Angler. ” The river is a spawning ground for these trout, and anglers may witness this natural phenomenon under the right conditions.
The fisheries within the Stour Valley, including Littlebourne Lakes, are located in an area of outstanding natural beauty. In fact, this area has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and has recently been upgraded to an International RAMSAR site. The management of the fisheries within the SSSI is subject to an agreement between the Association and English authorities.
Littlebourne Lakes is deeply rooted in the angling community, and its association with other local clubs, such as Faversham Angling Club and the Pike Anglers' Club, demonstrates its commitment to promoting angling in the region. The club fosters a sense of camaraderie among its members, who come from diverse backgrounds but share a passion for fishing.
As a member of Littlebourne Lakes, anglers gain exclusive access to these exceptional fishing waters in Canterbury. The club offers various membership options, and the prices are competitive, ensuring that fishing remains accessible to all enthusiasts. Additionally, the club hosts competitions throughout the year, adding a thrilling element to the fishing experience.
Littlebourne Lakes welcomes anglers of all skill levels and encourages responsible fishing practises. The club has implemented measures to protect the fish population and maintain the ecological balance of the waters. Anglers are reminded to follow the rules and regulations set by the club to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable fishing experience for all.
For more information about Littlebourne Lakes and membership details, visit the club's social media pages and club directories. The club can also be reached through their website or contacted directly for any inquiries.