Top 10 Best Fishery Companies in East Cambridgeshire

Fisheries in a Landscape Shaped by Water

East Cambridgeshire's history is inseparable from water. Before the Fens were drained, the Isle of Ely was surrounded by marshes, meres and rivers teeming with fish and eels. Eels were so abundant that they were once used as a form of currency, and the name Ely itself is often linked to them. Today, the River Great Ouse, the River Cam, the River Lark and a network of lodes and drains still support thriving fish populations, while lakes and ponds across the district provide popular venues for anglers.

Fisheries in the district today encompass recreational angling, fish stocking and conservation, and the supply of fish and seafood to local restaurants, pubs and fishmongers. This guide highlights ten fishery companies and organisations that serve East Cambridgeshire, covering both freshwater fisheries and seafood supply from the nearby East Anglian coast.

Why Fisheries Matter Locally

Angling is one of the most popular outdoor activities in the Fens, attracting residents and visitors who enjoy the peaceful riverbanks and open skies. Healthy fisheries support tourism, local tackle shops and hospitality businesses. Meanwhile, Ely's restaurants and pubs increasingly showcase fresh seafood from the Norfolk and Suffolk coasts, creating demand for reliable, sustainable suppliers.

The Top 10 Fishery Companies and Organisations

1. Cambridge Fish Preservation and Angling Society

The Cambridge Fish Preservation and Angling Society is one of the oldest angling clubs in the region, managing stretches of water on the Cam and Ouse systems. Its long-standing focus on fish preservation reflects a genuine commitment to healthy waterways and sustainable angling.

2. Environment Agency Calverton Fish Farm

The Environment Agency's national fish farm at Calverton breeds coarse fish to restock rivers across England. Its stocking programmes help restore fish populations after pollution incidents, droughts or habitat loss, benefiting Fen rivers and drains.

3. Lynn Shellfish

Lynn Shellfish, based in King's Lynn, processes and supplies shellfish such as cockles and mussels from The Wash. Its proximity makes it an important regional source of seafood for East Anglian food businesses.

4. Cromer Crab Company

Cromer Crab Company prepares and supplies the famous Cromer crab and other shellfish products from the North Norfolk coast. Its products are a favourite on menus across the East of England.

5. Cley Smokehouse

Cley Smokehouse is a traditional Norfolk smokery producing smoked fish such as kippers, salmon and mackerel. Its artisan products are popular with delis, farm shops and restaurants that value regional specialities.

6. Pinney's of Orford

Pinney's of Orford, on the Suffolk coast, is renowned for its oysters and smoked fish. Its long family history and commitment to sustainable practices have made it a respected name in East Anglian seafood.

7. Osborne Bros

Osborne Bros is a historic cockle and seafood business based in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex. Its traditional methods and quality shellfish connect the region to a long coastal heritage.

8. Direct Seafoods

Direct Seafoods is a national seafood distribution group supplying fresh and frozen fish to restaurants, hotels and caterers. Its responsible sourcing policies help chefs offer sustainable seafood on their menus.

9. M and J Seafood

M and J Seafood, part of the Brakes group, supplies fresh and frozen fish and shellfish to food service customers nationwide. Its delivery network reaches pubs, restaurants and institutional kitchens across Cambridgeshire.

10. The Fish Society

The Fish Society is an online fishmonger offering a wide range of frozen fish and seafood delivered direct to homes. It is a convenient option for households in rural villages without a local fishmonger.

Conservation and River Health

Healthy fisheries depend on clean water and good habitat. Fen rivers face challenges from agricultural runoff, low summer flows and invasive species. Angling clubs, conservation charities and environmental agencies work together on habitat improvements, water quality monitoring and fish rescues during droughts. Eel conservation is particularly important, as European eel populations have declined dramatically. Fish passes and screens on pumping stations are helping eels migrate through the heavily managed Fen drainage system.

Trends in Fisheries and Seafood

Sustainability certification is increasingly important in seafood supply, with chefs and consumers looking for responsibly caught and farmed fish. Local and regional sourcing is also popular, as diners enjoy shellfish from The Wash and the Norfolk coast. In recreational angling, catch and release practices, improved fish care and youth coaching programmes are helping to protect fish stocks and introduce new generations to the sport.

Enjoying Fisheries in East Cambridgeshire

Anglers should always hold a valid rod licence and check club rules and permit requirements before fishing. Many clubs offer day tickets or affordable memberships, providing access to quality stretches of river and stillwater. For food businesses, building relationships with reputable seafood suppliers ensures freshness, traceability and consistent quality throughout the year.

Conclusion

From ancient eel fisheries to modern angling clubs and coastal seafood suppliers, fisheries remain part of East Cambridgeshire's identity. The organisations and companies above help protect the district's waterways, support recreational angling and bring quality fish and seafood to local tables.