Qiyi Reservoir Shangrao: Your Go-To Spot for Relaxing Fishing Trips

Location & First Impressions

Nestled in Shuangming Town, Yushan County, Shangrao, Qiyi Reservoir sits about 500 meters north of the auxiliary dam. My first visit here was on a sunny Saturday morning—driving through winding country roads, the reservoir’s calm waters peeked through the trees before we even arrived. The air smelled fresh, with hints of pine and wet earth, and the sound of birds chirping replaced city noise instantly. It’s the kind of place that makes you forget your to-do list as soon as you step out of the car.

Fishing Fees & Rules (Updated 2024)

Current Daily Fee

As of my last trip in March 2024, the daily fishing fee is 30 yuan per person. Wait—before you ask, yes, that’s per day, and it’s super affordable compared to other paid spots in the region. But here’s a key note: you can’t fish for silver carp or bighead carp (those are strictly protected). Reservoir management patrols regularly, so make sure to stick to this rule to avoid fines or being asked to leave.

Recent Rule Change: Fishing Permit Requirement

One thing that surprised me on my latest visit was the new permit rule. Previously, Qiyi Reservoir was free for fishing (as long as you skipped the protected species), but now even casual anglers targeting small fish need a fishing permit. I asked a local angler about it, and he said the permit helps fund reservoir maintenance and wildlife protection. It’s easy to get—you can buy it at the small office near the main entrance or through the local tourism app (just search for “Shangrao fishing permits”).

What to Expect When Fishing at Qiyi Reservoir

Common Fish Species

You won’t find the giant trophy fish here, but that’s part of the charm—it’s perfect for casual anglers or families. The most common catches include:

• Common carp (small to medium-sized)
• Crucian carp (great for beginners)
• Catfish (especially near the dam)
• Various small freshwater fish (like loaches and minnows)

I spent three hours fishing and landed 8 crucian carp and 2 small carp—nothing huge, but it’s all about the experience, right? The water is clear, so you can sometimes see fish darting around your bait, which adds a fun element.

Best Spots & Tips

From talking to locals, here are the top spots to try:

• Near the auxiliary dam (where the water is slightly deeper)
• Shady areas under willow trees (fish love hiding here)
• Close to the inflow streams (fresh water brings food for fish)

As for tips: use light tackle (2-4 lb test line works best for small fish), bring live bait like earthworms or rice (locals swear by rice for crucian carp), and arrive early—by 7 AM, the popular spots fill up quickly. Also, don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle—there’s not much shade in open areas.

Why Qiyi Reservoir Is More Than Just Fishing

What makes this spot special isn’t just the fishing—it’s the vibe. I saw families picnicking on the grass, kids chasing dragonflies, and older anglers swapping stories while waiting for a bite. There’s a small snack stand near the entrance that sells cold drinks and fried rice cakes (they’re delicious, by the way). It’s not a fancy resort, but that’s the point—it’s a real, unpolished place where you can connect with nature without spending a fortune.

Final Thoughts

I left Qiyi Reservoir with a small bucket of fish (which I later released—catch and release is encouraged here!) and a big smile. It’s not the best spot for competitive anglers chasing big trophies, but if you want a relaxing day outdoors with good company, it’s perfect. Next time I go, I’m bringing my niece—she’s been begging to try fishing, and this seems like the ideal place to teach her. Have you ever fished at Qiyi Reservoir? Drop a comment below with your favorite spot or tip—I’d love to hear it!