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Home » UK Fly Fishing Lakes & Rivers: The Best Spots for Anglers » Fly Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Cambridgeshire: A Comprehensive Guide

Fly Fishing Lakes and Rivers in Cambridgeshire: A Comprehensive Guide

Fly fishing is a popular recreational activity in Cambridgeshire, offering anglers a chance to catch a variety of fish in both lakes and rivers. Cambridgeshire is home to several excellent fishing spots, including the River Cam, the Nene, and the Great Ouse, which are renowned for their excellent fishing opportunities. These rivers are ideal for fly fishing, with clear waters and plenty of fish species to target.

In addition to the rivers, Cambridgeshire also boasts several lakes that offer great fly fishing opportunities. Barway Lakes is a popular choice, with landscaped surroundings and two islands. The lake is stocked with catfish, carp, and specimen fish in nearly all species. It is also suitable for disabled anglers, with a members’ log hut, two toilets, and secure parking.

For those interested in fly fishing, Invicta Fly Fishing Club is a great resource. The club has been based in Cambridgeshire for over 45 years and covers the surrounding counties as well as further afield. They organize frequent fishing trips to a variety of local and national still-water and occasionally river venues, providing anglers with a chance to explore new fishing spots and hone their skills.

Fly Fishing in Cambridgeshire

Cambridgeshire is a beautiful county in the East of England with a rich history and stunning landscapes. It is also home to some fantastic fly fishing opportunities. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a beginner, there is something for everyone in Cambridgeshire.

One of the most popular fly fishing spots in Cambridgeshire is the River Cam. This river is famous for its stunning scenery and is home to a variety of fish, including brown trout, pike, and chub. The River Cam is also an excellent place to learn how to fly fish, with many local guides and instructors available to help you get started.

Another great spot for fly fishing in Cambridgeshire is Grafham Water. This large reservoir is home to some of the best trout fishing in the country, with fish weighing up to 10lbs regularly caught. Grafham Water also has a variety of other species, including pike, perch, and roach, making it an excellent all-around fishing location.

If you prefer fishing in smaller bodies of water, then there are many smaller lakes and ponds in Cambridgeshire that are perfect for fly fishing. Some of the best include Long Island Lake, Cromwell Lake, and Brampton Head Fen Lakes & Fisheries. These locations are perfect for those looking to catch a variety of fish, including carp, tench, and roach.

Overall, Cambridgeshire is an excellent destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and fantastic fishing opportunities, it’s no wonder that so many anglers flock to this county every year. So, whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, grab your fly fishing gear and head to Cambridgeshire for an unforgettable fishing experience.

Popular Lakes for Fly Fishing in Cambridgeshire

If you’re looking for a great place to fly fish in Cambridgeshire, there are several popular lakes that you should consider. Here are three of the best:

Grafham Water

Grafham Water is a huge reservoir located in Huntingdonshire. It’s a popular spot for fly fishing, with plenty of trout and pike to be caught. The lake is managed by Anglian Water, and there are plenty of facilities available for anglers. There are several boat launches around the lake, and you can rent boats or bring your own. There are also plenty of places to fish from the shore.

Pitsford Water

Pitsford Water is another popular lake for fly fishing in Cambridgeshire. Located in Northamptonshire, it’s a large reservoir with plenty of fish to be caught. Anglers can catch trout, pike, and other species. There are several boat launches around the lake, and you can rent boats or bring your own. There are also plenty of places to fish from the shore.

Ravensthorpe Reservoir

Ravensthorpe Reservoir is located in Northamptonshire and is another great spot for fly fishing. The lake is stocked with trout, and there are plenty of other species to be caught as well. There are several boat launches around the lake, and you can rent boats or bring your own. There are also plenty of places to fish from the shore.

Overall, these three lakes are some of the best spots for fly fishing in Cambridgeshire. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, you’ll find plenty of fish and great facilities at these locations.

Rivers for Fly Fishing in Cambridgeshire

If you are looking for a great place to go fly fishing in Cambridgeshire, the rivers in the area offer some excellent options. Here are a few of the best rivers for fly fishing in Cambridgeshire:

River Cam

The River Cam is a popular spot for fly fishing in Cambridgeshire. It is a slow-moving river that is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, pike, and perch. The river is easily accessible from many areas in Cambridgeshire, making it a convenient option for local anglers.

When fly fishing on the River Cam, it is important to pay attention to the weather and water conditions. The river can become murky after heavy rain, which can make it more difficult to catch fish. However, on clear days, the river can be an excellent spot for fly fishing.

River Great Ouse

The River Great Ouse is another popular river for fly fishing in Cambridgeshire. It is a large river that runs through several towns and villages in the area. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, grayling, and chub.

When fly fishing on the River Great Ouse, it is important to pay attention to the water conditions. The river can become fast-moving and dangerous after heavy rain, so it is important to exercise caution when fishing. However, on calm days, the river can be an excellent spot for fly fishing.

Overall, the rivers in Cambridgeshire offer some excellent options for fly fishing. Whether you are a local angler or a visitor to the area, the rivers in Cambridgeshire are definitely worth checking out.

Best Time for Fly Fishing in Cambridgeshire

When it comes to fly fishing in Cambridgeshire, timing is everything. The best time to go fly fishing in Cambridgeshire is during the months of April to October. This is when the weather is warmer, and the fish are more active. During this period, the water temperature is also warmer, which makes the fish more active and easier to catch.

The early morning and late evening are the best times to go fly fishing in Cambridgeshire. During these times, the fish are more active and will be more likely to take your bait. It’s also a good idea to avoid fishing during the hottest parts of the day, as the fish will be less active and harder to catch.

When it comes to fly fishing in rivers, the best time to go is during the early season, which is from April to June. During this time, the water is still cool, and the fish are more active. The late season, which is from September to October, is also a good time to go fly fishing in rivers.

When it comes to fly fishing in lakes, the best time to go is during the summer months. During this time, the water is warmer, and the fish are more active. It’s also a good idea to go fly fishing on overcast days, as the fish will be more likely to come to the surface.

Overall, the best time to go fly fishing in Cambridgeshire is during the warmer months of the year, from April to October. The early morning and late evening are the best times to go, and it’s important to avoid fishing during the hottest parts of the day. If you follow these tips, you’ll have a great time fly fishing in Cambridgeshire!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best rivers for fishing in Cambridgeshire?

Cambridgeshire is known for its excellent river fishing, with several rivers offering great opportunities to catch a variety of fish species. The River Great Ouse, River Cam, and River Nene are some of the most popular rivers for fishing in Cambridgeshire. These rivers are home to a range of fish species, including pike, zander, chub, and barbel.

Can I fish for free anywhere in Cambridgeshire?

No, you cannot fish for free anywhere in Cambridgeshire. Most lakes and rivers in Cambridgeshire require a fishing permit or day ticket to fish. However, there are a few free fishing spots available, such as the River Lark double bank at Prickwillow.

What types of fish can be found in the River Cam?

The River Cam is home to a wide variety of fish species, including pike, perch, chub, roach, bream, and eel. The river is also known for its excellent trout fishing, with brown trout and rainbow trout both present in the river.