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River Cam Fishing Guide

River · 125.6km (78 miles) · United Kingdom
River Close season applies WQ: Poor Navigable

About River Cam

The Cam is a lowland river offering mixed coarse fishing for carp, bream, chub, roach, pike and perch, though water quality can be variable. Fishing rights are predominantly club-controlled or private; you'll need an Environment Agency rod licence plus membership or day-ticket permission to fish.

River Cam observes the standard close season: 15 March – 15 June (rivers). Always check local byelaws before your visit. A rod licence alone does not grant access — most stretches require club membership or a day ticket in addition.

River Cam is a navigable waterway managed by Environment Agency covering Popes Corner to Jesus Lock (Cambridge). Rod licence required. Free fishing on many stretches through Cambridge city centre with rod licence. Punting also popular — anglers should be aware of boat traffic.

Current Water Conditions

Loading water level data…

Water level data from the Environment Agency Real Time Flood Monitoring API. Nearest gauging station. Always verify conditions on arrival.

Water Type
River
Length
125.6km (78mi)
Close Season
15 March – 15 June (rivers)
Water Quality
Poor
Fish Status
Moderate
Licence Required
EA Rod Licence
Navigation
Environment Agency
Speed Limit
7mph
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Fish Species in River Cam

River Cam holds common carp, bream, chub, roach, rudd, tench, dace, perch, pike, gudgeon, trout, eel, ruffe.

Carp are a popular target on River Cam — handle carefully with a landing net and unhooking mat, and return promptly.

Trout fishing on River Cam may be subject to season restrictions set by the local club or riparian owner — always confirm before your session.

An EA rod licence is required by law to fish River Cam. Club membership or a day ticket is also required on most stretches.

Navigation & Boating on River Cam

River Cam is a navigable waterway managed by Environment Agency (Popes Corner to Jesus Lock (Cambridge)).

Rod licence required. Free fishing on many stretches through Cambridge city centre with rod licence. Punting also popular — anglers should be aware of boat traffic.

Registration required: EA boat registration required.

Speed limit: 7mph.

Official authority website →

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a Trip to River Cam

To fish River Cam, you need a valid EA rod licence, available online from gov.uk. Annual, day and 8-day licences are available. In addition to the rod licence, you will need club membership or a day ticket from the controlling angling club or riparian owner for most stretches of River Cam.

Always check conditions before you visit. Water quality, access and rules can change seasonally. The EA's Catchment Data Explorer provides up-to-date water quality information for River Cam.

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