danm1

I grew up on the Chichester pits - lost touch with them a bit now, but can probably dispell a few of the popular myths and maybe give you a few pointers!

Not sure if you're still on the look out for info - but yes, I know the complex pretty well and happy to help with any questions.

Nothing recent - and nothing of pecs that I know of. Blackscale's on the "that-ain't-no-bream" gallery. I photographed that fish the first time it was caught (from Vinnetrow!) at 27lb! Not far off 20 years ago!

No rules regarding baiting up like that mate - not at Turnford AC, aka Slipe Lane Pits. I think they've restocked the Railway - albeit not been able to confirm it for sure. Previously the majority of fish were 20+; I've done a handful of nights recently and only caught mid-doubles! There's weed throughout the pit, but it's no big deal and doesn't cause a problem. Lea and Marsh pits are very low stock. Boot pit is a bit of an unknown.

Have you look at Chichester and District Angling Society? They have a handful of quite different waters - something to suit all carpers. Was a member quite a few years ago, but wouldn't hesitate to rejoin if I was ever back in the area.

Have you had a look at Manor Farm near Biggleswade? I've fished it once - on Winters Lake - and was quite impressed to be honest. It's a newish venue, so will take a few more years to become "established" - but it's well kept, well run and has some very nice fish to go at. The main lake - think they just call it "the carp lake" is apparently full of doubles and not too difficult - this time of year you can expect to catch a couple. They're cool about you dropping in and having a walk around. Hope that helps.

I had a look at the place when I lived down that way. Not one to slate venues generally - will just say there are better waters in the area. "Speci" is a very loose term - most of the fish I've heard of from there were doubles!

I've fished it a few times - not this time of year though. Have found that the fish do have a habit of sneaking into the quieter areas - where there's no lines in the water. If you're stuck for deciding where to go worth keeping that in mind if they're not giving their location away. Personally prefer the far bank - not everyone's prepared to walk that far, opting for the road bank. Saying that, with the popularity of the place nowadays, doubt there'll be a lot of choice. Let us know how you get on.