
Fishery guide · Norfolk
Taverham Mills
Taverham Mills is a sizeable Anglian Water Parks venue near Taverham, with four lakes and roughly three-quarters of a mile of River Wensum bank. The syndicate sprint is aimed at anglers wanting access to the more restricted waters, with season permits from £350 to £1,100 including VAT.
“7.6/10 — Four lakes plus roughly three-quarters of a mile of riverbank gives anglers a cracking spread of stillwater and river fishing.”
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The lowdown
Taverham Mill is on Costessey Lane, Taverham, Norfolk, and the whole setup is operated by Anglian Water Parks. It’s a proper mixed fishery, with four lakes and roughly three-quarters of a mile of River Wensum bank. So, plenty of choice, but you’ll want to get your permit and target water sorted before loading the motor.
- 5 lakes: Taverham Mill Lake, Costessey No.1, The Ski Pit, Costessey No.3, River Wensum
- Fish: carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike, eel
- Tickets from: Taverham Gold season permit — £1,100 including VAT
- Find it: Taverham · NR8 6TA
Plan your session
Fishery map of Taverham Mills
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Around the fishery
A look around the venue
Photos courtesy of Photo: Taverham Mills (official website). Catch dates not confirmed.
Which lake suits you?
Based on how each lake is set up — not a ranking.
The full rundown on Taverham Mills
Taverham Mill is on Costessey Lane, Taverham, Norfolk, and the whole setup is operated by Anglian Water Parks. It’s a proper mixed fishery, with four lakes and roughly three-quarters of a mile of River Wensum bank. So, plenty of choice, but you’ll want to get your permit and target water sorted before loading the motor.
For a traditional coarse session, the day-ticket lake is the straightforward starting point. It’s aimed at mixed fishing, with silver fish and a small number of nomadic carp. Reported residents include tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike, chub, barbel, dace, eel and gudgeon. That’s a decent mix for keeping the float busy, especially if you fancy a varied session rather than sitting behind one big bait all day.
Taverham Mill Lake is the big named water, at approximately 22 acres, and contains larger specimen carp, including mirrors and commons. That’s the obvious draw for anyone after a proper carp campaign or a cheeky PB chance. Season-permit holders can fish at any time of day for a maximum of 72 consecutive hours at a time, with up to three rods allowed under the current rules. As ever, check the permit conditions before clipping up.
There are also syndicate options on the Ski Pit and Costessey No.3. The Ski Pit season costs £600 including VAT, while Costessey No.3 costs £350 including VAT. The Dual Lake Taverham Mills and Ski Lake Syndicate is £950 including VAT. The Taverham Mill Lake season permit is £600 including VAT, and Taverham Gold is £1,100 including VAT for all Taverham waters, subject to the 72-hour maximum. Several lake permits were shown as unavailable when checked, so don’t leave the admin until the night before.
The River Wensum adds a completely different angle, with river fishing available by separate permit or qualifying membership. Its season runs from 16 June to 14 March, and river season permits cover two rods from dawn until dusk. The adult season costs £105 including VAT, with senior and junior permits at £75 and £50 respectively. River work can mean a proper change of gear and mindset, so ask about the most suitable stretch, current conditions and any permit-specific details before heading down.
There’s a visitor centre with toilets, refreshments, a café and tackle shop, plus free parking. It’s listed as open Monday to Saturday 10:00-17:00 and Sunday 10:00-16:00, although visitor-centre and fishing access times may differ. Pack the usual bits for a new venue, keep your tackle tidy, and ask Anglian Water Parks about access, water choice and availability before setting off. Bookings and permit enquiries can be made through Anglian Water Parks or with the fishery.
Straight from anglers online
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Taverham Mills FAQs
Where is Taverham Mills?
It is on Costessey Lane, Taverham, Norfolk.
Who operates the fishery?
The fishery is operated by Anglian Water Parks.
Are day tickets currently available across every water?
The official current booking page does not clearly publish a standard public day-ticket price for every water. Confirm access and pricing when booking.
How do I enquire about permits?
Bookings and permit enquiries can be made through Anglian Water Parks or by calling the fishery.
Where's the nearest tackle shop?
There's tackle shop on site, so you can grab bits on the day. For anything bigger, stock up before you leave home — or order online in advance.
Do I need to bring food?
There's café and refreshments listed, but opening times vary, so pack snacks and plenty of water just in case — especially on a long session.
Are there toilets on site?
Yes — the fishery lists visitor centre with toilets.
Is there parking, and how close is it to the swims?
Yes — free parking at the visitor centre. Walks to the further pegs can be a trek, so a barrow helps.
What's the postcode for the sat nav?
NR8 6TA.
How much is a ticket?
Taverham Gold season permit: £1,100 including VAT; Taverham Mill Lake season permit: £600 including VAT; Costessey Pits Ski Pit Syndicate season: £600 including VAT; Costessey No.3 Syndicate season: £350 including VAT; Dual Lake Taverham Mills and Ski Lake Syndicate season: £950 including VAT; River Wensum adult season: £105 including VAT; River Wensum senior season: £75 including VAT for anglers aged over 65; River Wensum junior season: £50 including VAT for anglers under 18; Older listed guest rate: Taverham Mill Lake and River Wensum: £25 per 24 hours or £12 per day. Prices last checked 2026-10-12 — they can change, so check before you go.
Can I just turn up, or do I need to book?
Day tickets are available on Costessey No.1. The Ski Pit, Costessey No.3 are members only. Busy weekends can fill up, so ring ahead if you've got your heart set on a swim.
What fish are in there?
Across the lakes you'll find carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike, eel, crucian, chub, barbel, zander. See each lake tab for which fish live where.
How many lakes are there?
5 — Taverham Mill Lake (Approximately 22 acres), Costessey No.1 (Approximately 3 acres), The Ski Pit (Not published), Costessey No.3 (Not published), River Wensum (Approximately three-quarters of a mile of riverbank).
Is night fishing allowed?
Yes — Night fishing is permitted on the main season-ticket waters, subject to the relevant permit conditions.
Can I bring my dog?
No — Dogs must be kept on a lead or long leash in the swim.
Are bait boats allowed?
No — No bait boats are permitted under the published fishery rules.
Do I need barbless hooks?
Most UK fisheries prefer barbless or micro-barbed hooks — ask on arrival if unsure.
Do I need my own unhooking mat or cradle?
Bring one either way — most fisheries expect it and the fish deserve it.
Is it suitable for disabled anglers?
The fishery lists accessible trails and play area. Ring ahead to check which swims suit you.
Do I need a rod licence?
Yes — anyone 13 or over fishing in England and Wales needs an Environment Agency rod licence (or Natural Resources Wales in Wales), on top of your fishery ticket.
When's the best time of year to fish here?
Late spring through autumn is prime for most species. Check our live weather edge for this venue before you go — it updates daily.
Anglers' photos
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Pre-book only
Taverham Mill Lake: the main specimen-carp water, with larger mirrors and commons in roughly 22 acres.
- Size
- Approximately 22 acres acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike, eel, crucian
Taverham Mill Lake is the main big-water option, covering approximately 22 acres. It contains larger specimen carp, including mirrors and commons, so it’s the one that’ll appeal most to anglers chasing a serious lump.
Season-permit holders can fish at any time of day, for a maximum of 72 consecutive hours at a time. Night fishing is permitted subject to the relevant permit conditions, and current rules allow a maximum of three rods.
Taverham Mill Lake contains larger specimen carp, including mirrors and commons.
Lake photographs
A look around Taverham Mill Lake
Taverham Mills
Taverham Mill Lake
We’re checking the fishery’s Taverham Mill Lake pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Carp anglers after larger mirrors and commons
- Anglers wanting longer sessions with night-fishing permission under the permit conditions
Maybe not for
- Anglers looking for a simple public day-ticket water, as the current booking page does not clearly publish a standard day-ticket price
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Taverham Mill Lake
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Taverham Mill Lake FAQs
How big is Taverham Mill Lake?
It is approximately 22 acres.
How many rods are allowed?
The current rules allow season-permit holders a maximum of three rods.
What's the lake record on Taverham Mill Lake?
Going by what the fishery says: Taverham Mill Lake contains larger specimen carp, including mirrors and commons. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Taverham Mill Lake?
carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike, eel, crucian. Taverham Mill Lake contains larger specimen carp, including mirrors and commons.
Which baits work well on Taverham Mill Lake?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Taverham Mill Lake further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Taverham Mill Lake get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Taverham Mill Lake?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Taverham Mills before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Taverham Mill Lake?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Taverham Mill Lake on a day ticket?
You'll need to book Taverham Mill Lake in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on Taverham Mill Lake?
Yes — Night fishing is permitted on the main season-ticket waters, subject to the relevant permit conditions.
Who does Taverham Mill Lake suit?
Good for: Carp anglers after larger mirrors and commons; Anglers wanting longer sessions with night-fishing permission under the permit conditions. Less suited to: Anglers looking for a simple public day-ticket water, as the current booking page does not clearly publish a standard day-ticket price.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Day ticket · turn up
Costessey No.1: a compact day-ticket coarse lake for mixed silver-fish fishing.
- Size
- Approximately 3 acres acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike, chub, barbel, eel
Costessey No.1 is approximately 3 acres and is described as the day-ticket lake, intended for traditional coarse fishing. It contains mixed silver fish and a small number of nomadic carp.
Reported species across the fishery include tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch and pike, alongside other coarse fish. It’s the smaller, more straightforward option in the Taverham lineup.
The day-ticket lake contains mixed silver fish and a small number of nomadic carp.
Lake photographs
A look around Costessey No.1
Taverham Mills
Costessey No.1
We’re checking the fishery’s Costessey No.1 pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Traditional coarse anglers after mixed silver fish
- Anglers wanting a compact water rather than a 22-acre carp lake
Maybe not for
- Anglers specifically targeting larger specimen carp
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Costessey No.1
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Costessey No.1 FAQs
Is Costessey No.1 a day-ticket water?
It is described as the day-ticket lake.
Are keepnets allowed?
No keepnets are allowed on Costessey No.1 under the published rules.
What's the lake record on Costessey No.1?
Going by what the fishery says: The day-ticket lake contains mixed silver fish and a small number of nomadic carp. That's the owner's figure, not ours — take it as a guide.
What fish are in Costessey No.1?
carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike, chub, barbel, eel. The day-ticket lake contains mixed silver fish and a small number of nomadic carp.
How big is Costessey No.1 and how many swims?
Around Approximately 3 acres acres. A compact day-ticket coarse lake for mixed silver-fish fishing..
Which baits work well on Costessey No.1?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Costessey No.1 further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: with the fish the fishery lists here, a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Costessey No.1 get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. It's a day-ticket lake, so popular swims go early — arrive at first light or midweek if you can.
What weather suits bigger catches on Costessey No.1?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Taverham Mills before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Costessey No.1?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Costessey No.1 on a day ticket?
Yes — Costessey No.1 is on the day ticket. Tickets: Taverham Gold season permit £1,100 including VAT; Taverham Mill Lake season permit £600 including VAT; Costessey Pits Ski Pit Syndicate season £600 including VAT; Costessey No.3 Syndicate season £350 including VAT; Dual Lake Taverham Mills and Ski Lake Syndicate season £950 including VAT; River Wensum adult season £105 including VAT; River Wensum senior season £75 including VAT for anglers aged over 65; River Wensum junior season £50 including VAT for anglers under 18; Older listed guest rate: Taverham Mill Lake and River Wensum £25 per 24 hours or £12 per day (last checked 2026-10-12).
Is night fishing allowed on Costessey No.1?
Yes — Night fishing is permitted on the main season-ticket waters, subject to the relevant permit conditions.
Who does Costessey No.1 suit?
Good for: Traditional coarse anglers after mixed silver fish; Anglers wanting a compact water rather than a 22-acre carp lake. Less suited to: Anglers specifically targeting larger specimen carp.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Syndicate · invite only
The Ski Pit: a syndicate water with a £600 including vat season.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike
The Ski Pit is a syndicate water within the Taverham setup. Its season costs £600 including VAT, and it can also be covered by the £950 including VAT Dual Lake Taverham Mills and Ski Lake Syndicate.
Season-permit holders can fish at any time of day subject to the permit conditions, with night fishing permitted on the main season-ticket waters. The current rules allow a maximum of three rods on the Ski Pit Syndicate.
Lake photographs
A look around The Ski Pit
Taverham Mills
The Ski Pit
We’re checking the fishery’s The Ski Pit pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers looking for restricted syndicate access
- Those wanting the option of a dual-lake permit
Maybe not for
- Casual anglers after an uncomplicated day ticket
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish The Ski Pit
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Bait boats aren't allowed, so spod or throwing-stick the bait out — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
The Ski Pit FAQs
What does the Ski Pit season cost?
The Costessey Pits Ski Pit Syndicate season costs £600 including VAT.
Can I use three rods?
The current rules allow season-permit holders a maximum of three rods on the Ski Pit Syndicate.
What's the lake record on The Ski Pit?
The fishery hasn't published a record for The Ski Pit that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in The Ski Pit?
carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike.
How big is The Ski Pit and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A syndicate water with a £600 including VAT season..
Which baits work well on The Ski Pit?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for The Ski Pit further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does The Ski Pit get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on The Ski Pit?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Taverham Mills before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on The Ski Pit?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish The Ski Pit on a day ticket?
No — The Ski Pit is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on The Ski Pit?
Yes — Night fishing is permitted on the main season-ticket waters, subject to the relevant permit conditions.
Who does The Ski Pit suit?
Good for: Anglers looking for restricted syndicate access; Those wanting the option of a dual-lake permit. Less suited to: Casual anglers after an uncomplicated day ticket.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Syndicate · invite only
Costessey No.3: a syndicate water with a £350 including vat season.
- Size
- Not published
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike
Costessey No.3 is listed as a syndicate water, with a season permit costing £350 including VAT. That makes it the lowest-priced named lake syndicate option in the checked permit list.
The lake size and a specific stock breakdown are not published in the checked facts, so the sensible move is to confirm current access and fishing conditions before committing.
Lake photographs
A look around Costessey No.3
Taverham Mills
Costessey No.3
We’re checking the fishery’s Costessey No.3 pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- Anglers wanting a lower-cost syndicate season
- Members happy to fish a water with limited published detail
Maybe not for
- Anglers needing published lake dimensions and detailed stock information before choosing
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish Costessey No.3
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Costessey No.3 FAQs
What does Costessey No.3 cost?
The Costessey No.3 Syndicate season costs £350 including VAT.
Is Costessey No.3 a day-ticket lake?
No. It is listed as a syndicate water.
What's the lake record on Costessey No.3?
The fishery hasn't published a record for Costessey No.3 that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in Costessey No.3?
carp, tench, bream, roach, rudd, perch, pike.
How big is Costessey No.3 and how many swims?
Around Not published acres. A syndicate water with a £350 including VAT season..
Which baits work well on Costessey No.3?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for Costessey No.3 further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does Costessey No.3 get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on Costessey No.3?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Taverham Mills before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on Costessey No.3?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish Costessey No.3 on a day ticket?
No — Costessey No.3 is syndicate or members only, so you'll need to sort a ticket direct with the fishery.
Is night fishing allowed on Costessey No.3?
Yes — Night fishing is permitted on the main season-ticket waters, subject to the relevant permit conditions.
Who does Costessey No.3 suit?
Good for: Anglers wanting a lower-cost syndicate season; Members happy to fish a water with limited published detail. Less suited to: Anglers needing published lake dimensions and detailed stock information before choosing.
Community reported
Recent angler updates
No angler updates yet — that's normal. Be the first to help the next angler.
How busy was it?
Nobody's said yet. It's part of the 20-second update below.
No live tracking — this is what anglers told us after their session, and it's never part of the venue score.
Water updates from anglers
No active water updates.
Help other anglers
Pre-book only
River Wensum: approximately three-quarters of a mile of wensum bank, available by permit.
- Size
- Approximately three-quarters of a mile of riverbank acres
- Swims
- Not published
- Max anglers
- —
- Species
- chub, barbel, roach, rudd, perch, pike, tench, bream, eel, zander
The River Wensum fishery includes approximately three-quarters of a mile of riverbank and is available by separate permit or qualifying membership. It offers a proper change of pace from the stillwaters.
The river season runs from 16 June to 14 March. River season permits cover two rods from dawn until dusk, and the adult permit costs £105 including VAT, with senior and junior rates also listed.
Lake photographs
A look around River Wensum
Taverham Mills
River Wensum
We’re checking the fishery’s River Wensum pictures before displaying them here. You can still see the originals on the fishery’s website.
Suits
- River anglers after a seasonal Wensum ticket
- Anglers who fancy chub, barbel and other reported river species
Maybe not for
- Night anglers, as the river permit covers fishing from dawn until dusk
Bait, rigs & seasons
How we'd fish River Wensum
chub
Bread or worm tight to cover for chub
Chub sit under overhanging trees and snags and are cautious, so a quiet approach and a natural bait near cover catches them.
- Bread flake or lobworm on a size 8 hook with a link leger.
- Keep low and quiet on the bank.
- In summer, try a free-lined slug or floating crust.
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder, and this lake runs alongside the river. Use a strong rod and line, and rest them properly in the net before release.
- Halibut pellet or small boilie over a bed of pellet.
- Strong hooklink and a size 10–12 hook.
- Never hold barbel out of water long — keep them in the net until they've recovered.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
rudd
Floating baits and shallow float for rudd
Rudd feed high in the water, often near reeds and lilies on warm days. Fish up in the water to them, not on the bottom.
- A light waggler set 1–2ft deep with a single maggot or caster on a size 18.
- Loose-feed little and often to bring them up.
- Floating bread flake works brilliantly in summer.
River Wensum FAQs
When does the River Wensum season run?
The season runs from 16 June to 14 March.
How many rods does the river permit cover?
River season permits cover two rods from dawn until dusk.
What's the lake record on River Wensum?
The fishery hasn't published a record for River Wensum that we've found. The fishery doesn't say on what we've checked, so give them a quick call before you set off.
What fish are in River Wensum?
chub, barbel, roach, rudd, perch, pike, tench, bream, eel, zander.
How big is River Wensum and how many swims?
Around Approximately three-quarters of a mile of riverbank acres. Approximately three-quarters of a mile of Wensum bank, available by permit..
Which baits work well on River Wensum?
We've put together a full bait, rigs and seasons plan for River Wensum further up this page — it's built from the lake's features and the venue rules. As a rule, match your approach to the stock: a solid food-source boilie and a tidy presentation will catch anywhere on the complex.
When does River Wensum get busy?
Weekends and bank holidays are busiest, especially spring through autumn. Booking ahead is the safe bet.
What weather suits bigger catches on River Wensum?
A mild south-westerly with falling pressure is the classic carp trigger, and overcast days usually beat bright, still ones. Check our live weather edge for Taverham Mills before you go — it ranks every lake here for the next 7 days.
Which pegs are best on River Wensum?
Honestly, we don't rank pegs — the fish move with wind, pressure and pressure from other anglers. Have a walk and watch the water before you set up; the tips section above has what we've found so far.
Can I fish River Wensum on a day ticket?
You'll need to book River Wensum in advance rather than just turning up.
Is night fishing allowed on River Wensum?
Yes — Night fishing is permitted on the main season-ticket waters, subject to the relevant permit conditions.
Who does River Wensum suit?
Good for: River anglers after a seasonal Wensum ticket; Anglers who fancy chub, barbel and other reported river species. Less suited to: Night anglers, as the river permit covers fishing from dawn until dusk.
Community reported
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Help other anglers
Venue Rule Checker
- Yes
Are night sessions allowed?
Night fishing is permitted on the main season-ticket waters, subject to the relevant permit conditions.
- Must
Can I use three rods?
Season-permit holders may use a maximum of three rods on Taverham Mill Lake and the Ski Pit Syndicate.
- No
Can rods be left unattended?
Anglers must remain on or close to their rods, and rods must not be left unattended.
- No
Are bait boats allowed?
No bait boats are permitted under the published fishery rules.
- No
Is live baiting allowed for predators?
No live baiting is permitted for predator fishing.
- No
Are open fires allowed?
Open fires are prohibited, although raised barbecues are permitted.
- No
Can dogs run loose?
Dogs must be kept on a lead or long leash in the swim.
Taken from the fishery’s own pages, last checked 12 October 2026. Rules change — always check with the fishery before you go.
Rules and prices change through the season. Follow and we'll flag changes the fishery or other anglers report.
Tips & guides worth reading
How we'd fish each lake
Our own suggestions, worked out from each lake's features, its main fish and the venue rules. They're tried-and-tested methods, not reports from this venue, so watch the water and ask in the tackle shop on the day.
Taverham Mill Lake
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
Costessey No.1
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
bream
Groundbait feeder at range for bream
Bream shoal up and graze over open, silty areas. A steady stream of groundbait in one spot keeps a shoal in front of you.
- Clip up and hit the same spot every cast.
- Start with 8–10 feeders quickly, then recast every 5 minutes.
- Worm, maggot or corn on a size 14–16.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
The Ski Pit
carp
Zigs in the warmer months
In clear, deep water carp often sit up in the layers on warm days. A zig is the only way to get a bait in front of them.
- Start at half depth and move up or down a foot at a time until you get bites.
- Black or foam hookbaits work well on bright days.
- Keep it simple — no freebies needed.
carp
A bigger bed of bait at range
On wide, open water the fish move about a lot — a decent bed of bait at range holds a passing group long enough to get a bite.
- Find a clean, hard spot with a marker float and clip up so every cast lands on it.
- Bait boats aren't allowed, so spod or throwing-stick the bait out — little and often.
- Mix boilies, pellet and particles so there's always something left for the fish to graze.
- Match the hookbait to the freebies.
tench
Method or maggot feeder for tench
Tench love margins and weedy patches. A feeder puts a small, tight patch of bait right by the hookbait.
- Fish 10–20 yards out, or tight to the cover where it's safe to land fish.
- Recast every 10–15 minutes early on to build the swim.
- Short hooklink with a dead red maggot, corn or a 8mm wafter.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
Costessey No.3
carp
A neat lead-clip rig over a light scattering of bait
When you don't know the lake well yet, the simplest approach is the best start: a reliable bottom bait rig on a clean spot, with just enough bait to get a bite without filling them up.
- Feel the lead down to find a firm spot, then clip up so you hit it every cast.
- Fish a single boilie or wafter with 20–30 freebies around it.
- Leave one rod roving and recast it to showing fish.
tench
Lift method float for tench
Tench feed with their heads down and tip baits up — the lift method shows that bite as the float rising and lying flat.
- Fish the margin at dawn with a straight waggler, locked by a single big shot 2–3in from the hook.
- Rake or lightly bait the swim with hemp, corn and maggot.
- Strike when the float lifts or lies flat. Bread, corn or worm on a size 12–14.
bream
Waggler and groundbait for bream
If they're within waggler range, float fishing over balls of groundbait is a great way to pick off bream.
- Ball in groundbait with casters and chopped worm at the start.
- Set the float a touch over-depth and watch for slow lifts.
- Top up when bites slow.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
River Wensum
chub
Bread or worm tight to cover for chub
Chub sit under overhanging trees and snags and are cautious, so a quiet approach and a natural bait near cover catches them.
- Bread flake or lobworm on a size 8 hook with a link leger.
- Keep low and quiet on the bank.
- In summer, try a free-lined slug or floating crust.
barbel
Pellet and boilie for the lake barbel
Lake barbel feed hard and fight harder, and this lake runs alongside the river. Use a strong rod and line, and rest them properly in the net before release.
- Halibut pellet or small boilie over a bed of pellet.
- Strong hooklink and a size 10–12 hook.
- Never hold barbel out of water long — keep them in the net until they've recovered.
roach
Float maggot for roach
On a mixed lake a waggler and a pint of maggots is the easiest way to keep the float going under all day.
- Feed six to ten maggots every cast.
- Shallow up if bites come on the drop.
- Size 18 hook and light hooklength.
rudd
Floating baits and shallow float for rudd
Rudd feed high in the water, often near reeds and lilies on warm days. Fish up in the water to them, not on the bottom.
- A light waggler set 1–2ft deep with a single maggot or caster on a size 18.
- Loose-feed little and often to bring them up.
- Floating bread flake works brilliantly in summer.
Good background reading. Most of it is a few years old, so treat it as a starting point and ask on the day.
Videos linked by the fishery
What anglers reckon
7.6/10 from Tackle Index: Four lakes plus roughly three-quarters of a mile of riverbank gives anglers a cracking spread of stillwater and river fishing.
Straight from anglers online
Short, unedited extracts from public reviews, credited to the person who posted them. Not checked by us and not a Tackle Index view.
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Our take on the feedback
Our read
Checked Sept '26 — “Taverham Mills is a sizeable Anglian Water Parks venue near Taverham, with four lakes and roughly three-quarters of a mile of River Wensum bank. The syndicate sprint is aimed at anglers wanting access to the more restricted waters, with season permits from £350 to £1,100 including VAT.”
This is our own summary of recurring public feedback and the venue details we checked, not a copied customer review or a promise you’ll catch. Feedback changes, so we keep it separate from the Tackle Index score.
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