... Merseyside ...

Barnacre Lake
A small lake in Upton, near Birkenhead well stocked with carp to well over 20 lb, now a syndicate lake with 20 members which costs about £400 per season, Tel: 0151 677 1411. (I'm not too sure of the contact details I've given are still valid)

Burton Mere
4 lakes at Burton Manor near Chester, Burton Lake is the real specimen lake and is well stocked with carp to nearly 40 lbs plus a couple of largish catfish , day tickets cost around £10 for two rods, night fishing allowed and open all year with access for disabled anglers. For more info Tel: 0151 3530115.

Church Street Canal
The only stretch of canal in this guide so far, this section of canal is located in Church Street, St Helens and contains carp well over 20 lbs, this is warm (due to a factory outlet) and very busy stretch especially worth trying in the winter but if you like a quiet time this is not for you but if you don't mind then call St Helens Angling Association on 01744 51046 they will give you all the info you need.