Posted by Hooked Tackle on 7th Jan 2026

A Guide to Free Fishing Spots in and Around Newmarket

Finding a place to fish doesn't always have to mean paying for a day ticket. While our region is famous for its premium commercial lakes, there are several "free" stretches of water where you can enjoy a session without a permit from a club—provided you have a valid Environment Agency rod licence.

At Hooked Tackle, we get asked all the time: "Where can I just go and sit for a few hours without a day ticket?"

Here is our guide to the best free and low-cost fishing stretches near Newmarket.

1. The River Cam (Cambridge City Centre)

While much of the Cam is controlled by the Cambridge Fish Preservation & Angling Society, there are sections of the river within the city of Cambridge that have historically been free to fish from the public towpaths (such as parts of Jesus Green and Midsummer Common).

  • What to catch: Exceptional Roach, Dace, and occasional Perch.

  • Pro Tip: This is "whip" territory. Keep your gear light and your bait simple—maggots and hemp work wonders here.

  • Warning: Always check local signage, as mooring rules and council regulations can change.

2. The Great Ouse (Littleport Stretches)

A bit further out (roughly 25 mins from Newmarket), parts of the Great Ouse offer vast stretches of bank. While many sections are leased, certain areas near public access points and "waste land" banks are often used by roving anglers.

  • What to catch: Huge Bream shoals, Pike, and Zander.

  • Hooked Tackle Tip: If you're targeting the big predators on the Ouse, pop into the shop to see our latest lure arrivals and deadbait stocks.

3. The River Lark (Free vs. Club Water)

The River Lark runs right through our "backyard." While the Lark Angling & Preservation Society controls most of the prime stretches around Barton Mills and Mildenhall (and you can buy their membership right here at Hooked Tackle!), there are small public access points where you can fish for the price of a club book—which, at under £1 a week, is as close to free as it gets!

  • Why buy the book? For the price of two pints of beer, a Lark Angling book gives you miles of the best Chub and Dace water in Suffolk.

4. Brandon Staunch & The Little Ouse

Near the town of Brandon, there are sections of the Little Ouse that offer public access. It’s a beautiful, slow-moving river that is perfect for a quiet afternoon with a float.

Important: The "Free Fishing" Checklist

Even if you aren't paying a "day ticket" fee, you must follow these three rules to avoid a heavy fine:

  1. Environment Agency Rod Licence: This is non-negotiable. You can get yours online, but make sure it's valid before you cast.

  2. The Close Season: Free river fishing is still subject to the national close season (March 15th to June 15th inclusive). No river fishing is allowed during this time!

  3. Check Your Access: "Free to fish" doesn't always mean "Free to walk." Always ensure you are on a public right of way or towpath.

Ready to hit the bank?

Whether you're fishing a free stretch of the Cam or a premium peg at Lawn Farm, the right bait is what makes the difference.

Swing by Hooked Tackle in Newmarket for:

  • Fresh maggots, worms, and casters.

  • Local club books (Lark Angling, CFPAS, and more).

  • Free advice on which stretches are currently fishing well!