New Lake Record: Arnie Smashes the 40lb Barrier!

We are absolutely thrilled to share some monumental news from Clawford Lakes! Regular visitor and good friend of the fishery, Paul Smith, has made history by landing their new lake record and the first-ever 40lb+ carp from Clawford. The magnificent fish, a common carp known as Arnie, tipped the scales at a staggering 41lb 10oz.

A deserved capture

Paul’s incredible catch came very soon after his first cast on Clawford Lake. After a spirited fight, he successfully landed the impressive-looking beast. It was a well-deserved moment for Paul, who is a regular and dedicated angler at Clawford. This capture also marks a new personal best for him, and we couldn’t be happier.

Adding to an already fantastic weekend, Paul had a successful day prior to this record-breaking catch, landing three fish from Mallard Lake, with the biggest just shy of 20lbs.

The story behind the catch

Paul was generous enough to share some details about the memorable moment. He wasn’t using any complex tactics, as the capture happened on his very first cast of the day while he was still setting up. Paul spotted a fish showing and, on a whim, cast to the area, keeping his fingers crossed. The successful bait was a Mainline Essential Cell boilie, fished with a few freebies of the same kind. Sometimes, simple and direct is the most effective approach!

The lakes are firing on all cylinders

Arnie was originally stocked at 33lb in 2022. While the fish spent some time at a consistent weight of around 33-34lbs, it has clearly had a massive growth spurt this year to reach this incredible new weight.

This record capture follows on from another great recent catch by Stu Clarke, who landed ‘Clarkie’ at 34lbs just earlier this week. The bigger fish at Clawford Lakes are feeding well right now, so if you’re thinking about targeting a new personal best, this is a fantastic time to get out on their specimen lake!

For more information about Clawford Lakes

Clawford Lakes is situated in a stunning 98-acre valley, the resort offers a unique blend of world-class angling and high-end accommodation, ideal for short breaks and holidays. With 16 well-stocked fishing lakes, Clawford Lakes caters to all abilities, from seasoned carp anglers targeting specimens like Arnie (41lb) to families enjoying their first catch. The resort’s unique accommodation, including Floating Lodges and Luxury Cocoons, provides an unparalleled experience, with some options offering private fishing access right from your deck.

Beyond the water, guests can enjoy a state-of-the-art spa, a heated swimming pool with flumes, and an on-site restaurant and bar. With a range of activities and a focus on both tranquility and adventure, Clawford Lakes is the perfect escape for anglers and non-anglers alike.

Written by Steve
Steve's been an angler since the age of 12, when he caught his first perch on his local canal in Warwickshire. An avid float angler for over 30 years, Steve's just as passionate about angling now, whether stick float fishing on the Avon or at his local gravel pit fishing for spring time Tench.