Taverham Mill River Wensum Stretch

River level

The lowdown

• This is a varied bit of the Wensum in the Wensum Valley near Taverham. Not a boring, samey channel — the water changes nicely as you move through the stretch.
• There are two weir pools to investigate, plus deeper holes where the bigger chub can sit and sulk. Chub are present in large numbers and commonly run 3–5 lb, which is proper good sport.
• The shallow gravel runs should suit a float, especially when the river is carrying a bit of colour and the pace is steady. Keep an eye on the crease where quicker water meets the slack.
• Lilies and reeds add plenty of cover, while the snaggy sections are worth a careful look. Fish tight to features, but don’t go charging in blind — there’s enough greenery here to nick tackle.
• Dace and roach give you smaller-fish sport, with perch and pike adding a bit of variety. Small barbel are also named for the stretch, so don’t rule out a surprise on a stronger setup.
• The river is described as suitable for anglers of all abilities. That makes it a handy venue for building confidence, while the pools and cover still give experienced anglers plenty to pick apart.
• Trotting the gravelly water is the obvious starting point. A feeder approach can work the deeper pools and slack edges, while chub are well worth stalking around cover with a quiet, mobile approach.
• The river is fishable from 16 June to 14 March, and anglers can fish from dawn until dusk. Wading is allowed, but be considerate to other users — no steamroller tactics.
• It’s part of a 100-acre site with a nature reserve, lakes, visitor centre, tackle shop, toilets and accessible trails. Free parking is available, with otters, kingfishers, waterfowl and barn owls adding to the setting.

Methods: Start with trotting the shallow gravel runs for dace, roach and chub, then work the deeper pools, weir pools and slack edges with a feeder or a quiet close-range approach. Fish the lilies, reeds and snags carefully, especially for chub, perch and pike.

Access & tickets

Fishing is by River Wensum season permit or for anglers staying in the site's accommodation. No current public day permits are available at Taverham Mill; the older guest day rates should not be treated as current availability.

Fish the club names

chub, roach, perch, pike, barbel

Key rules

• The stated river season runs from 16 June to 14 March.
• Fishing is permitted from dawn until dusk.
• River permits allow one angler to fish with two rods.
• Keep noise and lighting to a minimum.
• No bait boats.
• Wading is permitted, but anglers must be considerate to other users.
• Swimming and open fires are prohibited. Raised barbecues are allowed.
• Respect the environment and remove litter.

Where it is