Houchins reservoirs have been operated by CAPS since 1997, before CAPS took the lease the lakes used to be used for trout fishing, even today the odd brownie gets caught, they are now however very few and far between. Both lakes are used as irrigation reservoirs for the surrounding fields but with a depth of up to 20ft at their deepest there is little chance of either pit running out of water. The back pit holds what was possibly the largest English catfish in Essex 'Goliath', at over 55lb's, he has now lost the title to "Red Tail" at over 60lb, who lives in the front pit. Houchins has become a firm favourite with the cat guys as a both fish are serious targets. Bream roach, carp, tench, rudd and perch make up the remainder of the stock fish and are plentiful in both pits.

Due to continuing water quality issues, the majority of the carp and catfish have been removed. The larger catfish now reside in the Front Lake and the carp have been rehomed in Rectory Pool.

The toilet is located in the car park, it is normally only present during the warmer summer months and is regularly cleaned by a contracted company.

Houchins Front Pit does not lend itself to the disabled angler, with steep banks caution is required at all times. Of course the disabled members can still fish here, but no special provision of swim is available for them.

Juniors ( Under 16 ) must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times on the water. Anglers are not permitted to fish within restricted areas adjacent to overhead electricity cables and must be at least 30 metres away from any source of electricity. Lead weights must not exceed 4ozs. Maximum of two rods permitted throughout the year, on either or a combination of both lakes. THE HALIBUT PELLET BAN AT HOUCHINS WILL REMAIN IN FORCE FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE.