The history

Aerial view of Viking Fishery

Viking Fishery was established in 2002 when Laurie and Margaret Tones purchased land next to the Aire and Calder Canal near Pollington in East Yorkshire; planning permission was granted a year later in 2003.

Working from nothing, the fishery was designed to contain three ponds. The ponds were dug by Margaret and Laurie themselves, starting with Deer pond, to a depth of 4 feet. The ponds were allowed to mature naturally, encouraging the right blend of both fish and plant life. Deer Pond opened on 17th March 2007 after it had been properly stocked and was fishable. Fox pond was opened in 2008 and Hawk early in 2010.

Location, location, location

Viking Fishery is situated near to the Aire and Calder Canal near the village of Pollington in East Yorkshire south of the M62.

From Selby and Goole areas: From A645, Follow signpost to Pollington over M62. After half a mile the road bends right. Just after the 30 sign turn left onto Willow Lane. Go straight onto Crow Croft Lane. Just before the canal bridge turn left onto Balne Croft Lane. The fishery is half a mile on the left.

From M62 Motorway Junction 34: A19 south of Whitley, take turning to Pollington. Go through village. After The Kings Head pub turn right, then right again onto Crow Croft Lane. Just before the canal bridge turn left onto Balne Croft Lane. The fishery is half a mile on the left.


View Viking Fishery in a larger map

Our ponds

Our ponds are very much that! They were designed and dug by Laurie and Margaret from scratch. Deer pond is the most established and runs north-south down the fishery. All the ponds are stocked with a good blend of fish. The average distance between the fishing pegs and the islands is 13m and there is ample space between each peg; the majority of pegs are accessible by disabled anglers. Parking and toilet facilities are provided.