The Willows were excavated in 1973 to provide gravel for the construction of the A12. It was stocked with trout a year later and remained a trout fishery until it was converted into a carp fishery in the 1980's under new ownership.

In recent years, carp to the size of 50lb have been caught in this lake, and there is also a 40lb plus fish there at the moment. Additionally, the fishery features a sizable population of fish of 20 pounds or more, as well as a few fish weighing 30 pounds or more. Tench up to 12lb, eels up to 6lb, bream up to 13lb, and chub up to 6lb are the other species.

Additionally, Chelmsford angling organization has put many stocks to the fishery. If you have a valid permit, you are permitted to fish at night. May 1st marks the beginning of the fishing season.