About

SWS Fisheries operates six distinctive waters in the heart of Kent countryside, minutes from junction 4 of the M20 near West Malling. Founded in 2021 by Matt Craig and Aidan Setford, the operation encompasses five lakes within Leybourne Lakes Country Park plus the historic Castle Lake. Working in partnership with sister company SWS Countryside, established in 2009, the fisheries prioritize environmental consciousness and habitat development alongside premier specimen fishing. The flagship Larkfield Complex features four waters including the legendary Railway - a 10-acre lake with depths of 30 feet and savage gravel bars, featured in countless angling books. Larky 2 spans 18 acres housing around 200 carp with 50 original fish believed over 50 years old, plus the complex record tench exceeding 14lbs. The Ocean presents the ultimate challenge - a mysterious 45-acre gravel pit with depths exceeding 30 feet, shared with water sports but offering exceptional tench and pike fishing with multiple 20lb+ specimens caught seasonally. Road & Island provides technical fishing across 35 acres of underwater forest, home to carp over 40lbs and recently stocked with 20 new fish from VS Fisheries. Conservation Lake offers tranquil fishing across 4.5 acres with 17 purpose-built swims and trackway access, housing around 120 carp averaging mid-doubles. Castle Lake, secured in 2024, provides intimate spring-fed fishing across 6.7 acres with approximately 90 carp including 30 stocked since 2022. The operation has invested over 350 new carp, developed extensive infrastructure, and raised £25,000+ for local charities through their annual Match event supporting mental health and autism services.