Free fishing
It’s true – there are free fishing sites along and around the River Great Ouse where you don't have to pay for a day ticket or permit.
But you must still buy a valid rod licence from the Environment Agency before you fish.
You can catch many different species of fish in these areas. Please make sure that you don’t disturb other river users or damage the riverbanks.
River Cam, Cambridge
Free fishing is available at the Mill Pool on Silver Street from the pegs opposite to Darwin College.
River Cam, Grantchester Meadows
You can fish for free along the 2km stretch of these meadows in Cambridgeshire. Access the meadows from the lane next to the Green Man pub in the village.
River Great Ouse, Bedford
It's free to fish on the embankment of the Ouse close to Bedford town centre and also on the adjacent boating lake.
River Ivel, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire
Free fishing on the Ivel is downstream of Biggleswade Mill on the left-hand bank.
Hen Brook, St Neots
Fish for free on the right bank where the brook meets the River Great Ouse.
Ely Ouse, Ely
This free fishing spot in Ely town centre is on the mooring frontage from Ely High Bridge and downstream to the second railway bridge at Annesdale Quay.