Top 10 Best Fishery Companies in Fenland

Fenland: A Landscape Shaped by Water

Water defines Fenland. Centuries of drainage created a network of rivers, drains, dykes and washes that crisscross the district, from the tidal River Nene at Wisbech to the Sixteen Foot and Forty Foot drains near Chatteris and the Old Nene around March. Former clay and gravel pits have been transformed into well-stocked lakes, and the nearby Wash supports one of England's most important shellfish fisheries.

This combination makes the area a magnet for anglers seeking carp, tench, bream, pike and zander, and a vital base for commercial fishing businesses. Fishery companies and angling organisations play a crucial role in managing these waters, maintaining fish stocks and supporting the local visitor economy.

Trends in Fisheries and Angling

Commercial coarse fisheries continue to grow in popularity thanks to accessible facilities, well-maintained swims and reliable sport. Many venues now offer on-site cafes, accommodation and tackle shops, turning a day's fishing into a full leisure experience. Conservation is increasingly important, with fisheries investing in water quality monitoring, habitat improvement and responsible catch-and-release practices. Junior coaching and inclusive angling programmes are helping introduce new generations to the sport.

The Top 10 Fisheries in and Around Fenland

1. Decoy Lakes

Located near Whittlesey, Decoy Lakes is a well-regarded commercial fishery offering multiple lakes stocked with carp and silverfish. Its accessible pegs and consistent sport make it popular with match anglers and pleasure fishermen alike.

2. Rookery Waters

Rookery Waters is a popular Cambridgeshire fishery known for its attractive lakes and healthy stocks. It welcomes anglers of all abilities and has built a strong reputation for well-managed waters.

3. Tanholt Fishery

Situated on the edge of Peterborough near the Fens, Tanholt offers a range of lakes suited to match fishing, pleasure angling and specimen hunting. Its quality stocks attract visitors from across the region.

4. Woodlakes

Woodlakes, located in Norfolk just beyond the Fenland boundary, is a scenic holiday park and fishery with numerous lakes. Its combination of angling, camping and lodges makes it a favourite for fishing breaks.

5. Bluebell Lakes

Bluebell Lakes near Oundle is a renowned carp fishery set in beautiful surroundings. Specimen anglers travel considerable distances to fish its well-managed lakes.

6. Ferry Meadows

Managed within Nene Park, Ferry Meadows offers accessible lake and river fishing close to Peterborough. Its family-friendly setting and scenic landscape make it ideal for beginners and casual anglers.

7. Tallington Lakes

Tallington Lakes in Lincolnshire is a leisure destination with fishing, watersports and camping. Its large waters offer a variety of angling opportunities in a relaxed environment.

8. Lynn Shellfish

Operating from the King's Lynn area, Lynn Shellfish represents the proud commercial fishing tradition of the Wash, handling shellfish such as cockles, mussels and shrimps. The Wash fishery is carefully managed to protect stocks and habitats.

9. Wisbech and District Angling Association

This local angling association manages fishing rights on stretches of fenland waterways around Wisbech. It offers affordable access to excellent natural fishing and plays an important role in conservation and community angling.

10. King's Lynn Angling Association

King's Lynn Angling Association controls extensive fishing on rivers and drains across the Fens. Its waters are famous for bream, roach and predator fishing, and it has a long history of supporting match and pleasure anglers.

How to Choose a Fishery

Consider the type of fishing you enjoy. Commercial lakes provide reliable sport and facilities, while natural drains and rivers offer a wilder experience and the chance of specimen fish. Check day ticket prices, rules on bait and tackle, and whether night fishing is permitted.

Facilities matter, especially for families or anglers with mobility needs. Look for level pegs, parking close to the water, toilets and refreshments. Remember that a valid Environment Agency rod licence is required for freshwater fishing in England.

Benefits to the Fenland Economy

Angling brings visitors to Fenland throughout the year, supporting local accommodation, pubs, tackle shops and cafes. Commercial shellfish fisheries on the Wash provide skilled jobs and contribute to the regional food economy, while well-managed waters support biodiversity and healthy ecosystems.

Fen Drain Fishing Explained

For visiting anglers, the fen drains are a unique experience. These long, straight, man-made waterways were dug to carry water off the land, and today they hold impressive stocks of bream, roach, tench, pike and zander. Water levels and flow are controlled by drainage boards, so conditions can change quickly after heavy rain when pumps start moving water towards the sea.

Successful drain fishing often involves locating shoals along featureless banks, using feeder tactics for bream or lure fishing for predators. Winter pike fishing on the fens has a particularly strong following, with experienced anglers travelling from across the country.

Commercial lakes, by contrast, offer comfortable pegs, reliable sport and facilities suitable for families and newcomers. Many venues run junior coaching days and match series throughout the year. Whichever style you choose, respecting the countryside, taking litter home and following fishery rules helps protect these valuable waters for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Fenland's waterways and lakes offer some of the finest fishing in eastern England. The ten fisheries and organisations above combine excellent sport, responsible management and genuine passion for the environment. Whether you are a match angler, a specimen hunter or a complete beginner, the Fens have something to offer.