Norfolk Broads

Norfolk, United Kingdom · Freshwater · Intermediate

A network of shallow lakes and slow rivers created by medieval peat digging. Big pike hunt the reed-fringed margins in winter, and huge shoals of bream and roach fill the broads year-round.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: land-based or boat

The Broads Authority lists several publicly accessible fishing platforms and permits angling from most of its 24-hour moorings unless signed otherwise; anglers must give way to boats wishing to moor and keep paths clear. You may fish from a stationary boat but not from a moving boat (trolling) unless it is being rowed. Stretches managed by angling clubs and private land need the owner's or club's permission, so watch for signage. The Authority advises against fishing for pike in summer when water temperatures are high. An angling access map of the fishing platforms is published by the Authority.

Access information source

Species

  • northern pike
  • bream
  • roach

Best times to fish

  • Winter pike (Oct-Mar)
  • Summer bream at dawn
  • Calm, overcast days

Recommended gear

Essential

  • 2.75lb test curve pike rod
  • Deadbaits and large lures
  • Wire trace and unhooking mat
  • Long forceps

Optional

  • Boat hire
  • Bite alarms
  • Large landing net

Regulations and requirements

  • Environment Agency rod licence required
  • Coarse fish close season (15 March to 15 June inclusive) applies on the Broads waterways; it does not apply to some private stillwaters and fisheries — check the Environment Agency Anglian byelaws
  • Use wire traces and unhooking mats — pike welfare rules are enforced locally

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

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