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Gary Bayes: Reflections on Fish Farming, TV Fame & New Waters at Lyons Drove
Carp Social | Feature Date: 14th May 2026
A look back at change, growth and the evolution of NG Fisheries from 2020 to 2026
Reflections from Gary Bayes (2026)
Looking back six years on, Gary Bayes reflects on how significantly both his fishery business and the wider angling landscape have evolved.
“A lot has changed since those days in 2020. At the time it was very much focused on running the waters and keeping everything consistent, but the scale of angling now, the demand, and the way people interact with fisheries has grown massively.”
Gary explains that the rise in angling participation following that period brought both opportunities and challenges, particularly around pressure management and maintaining balance across busy day ticket venues.
“We saw a huge increase in new anglers coming into the sport, which was brilliant, but it also meant we had to adapt how we managed pressure on the fish and how we operated the lakes on a day-to-day basis.”
He also highlights how modern media exposure has changed expectations within the industry, with fisheries now more visible than ever through social media, video content, and television appearances.
Television appearances and “Hood To Farm” - Fame at last!
In recent years, Gary has also stepped into the wider public eye through television, including his appearance on the “Hood To Farm” series alongside Fekky.
The programme offered a look into rural life, outdoor businesses, and angling culture, giving viewers a behind-the-scenes perspective on the people and environments that support the modern fishing industry.
Gary’s involvement added another dimension to his profile, bridging the gap between traditional fishery management and mainstream media exposure. You can watch the full episode here:
Lyons Drove reservoirs – a major new milestone
One of the most significant developments in recent years has been the completion and opening of the Lyons Drove reservoirs in Cambridgeshire.
After multiple planning permission-related delays, the site — a complex of two lakes located alongside NG Fisheries’ existing operations at the site — is now fully operational.
The new waters represent a major expansion for the business, increasing capacity and providing additional opportunities for anglers within a professionally managed fishery environment.
For Gary, the project marks the result of years of persistence and long-term planning.
“It’s been a long journey getting Lyons Drove over the line, but seeing it now operational makes it worth every step.”
NG Fisheries today & onwards
Now operating in a more connected and media-driven angling world, NG Fisheries continues to be recognised as a well-established fish farm and fishery management specialist in the region.
From careful stock management and consistent venue upkeep to the expansion into new waters such as Lyons Drove, the business has continued to evolve while maintaining its core principles.
Compiled by Carp Social | May 2026
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