Founded in 1992, Lake John Fishery is highly regarded as one of the finest fisheries in Essex, praised by Angling Times as the top silver fish venue in the south of England. The fishery consists of two lakes, both home to a wide range of fish species, making it a popular spot for anglers of all abilities.

Lake John was the realisation of John Shinkins’ lifelong dream—his very own fishing lake, built from the ground up. Tragically, just a week after stocking the lake, John passed away in a boating accident at the age of 45, never getting the chance to enjoy the waters he had worked so hard to create.

Philomena (John’s Wife) made it her life goal to make the lake a success and the input from Karen & Colin the legacy of John Shinkins continues. The lake now enters into a new generation of management since the passing of Philomena in March 2023. It’s now Karen & Colin that continue to keep the Lake John legacy going and with John and Philomena’s ashes on the island it cements the reality of this close family run business.