RIVER WENSUM, FAKENHAM, NORFOLK

Fakenham Town Council allows free fishing along the Causeway to the first bridge above Fakenham Mill, and downstream from the mill along the footpath for about a mile and a half to the old railway bridge.

The Wensum is a famous barbel river, but wild trout, roach and dace dominate the headwaters around Fakenham. Most trout fall within the 4-to 6-inch range, growing up to 2lbs or even larger where habitat pockets allow; roach can reach 2lbs.  

Weed growth can be prolific from July onwards, so local fly-fishers recommend switching from nymphs to dry flies as the season progresses. This way you can see your fly and it’s not getting snagged by the bloody weeds all the time.

Black gnats, sedges, small pale olive imitations and mayflies can all work well.