Changde Fishing Spot: Mai Zi Crucian Carp Pond – A Hidden Gem for Anglers
My First Trip to Mai Zi Crucian Carp Pond
Last weekend, I packed my fishing gear and headed to Changde, eager to try a new spot I’d heard whispers about: Mai Zi Crucian Carp Pond. As someone who’s fished in several lakes and ponds across Hunan, I was curious to see if this small, local spot lived up to the hype. The drive from downtown Changde was surprisingly smooth—just a 30-minute ride to Dingcheng District’s Baiheshan Township, where the pond is tucked away.
When I arrived, the first thing that struck me was the scenery. The pond is surrounded by lush greenery, with tall trees lining the banks and a gentle breeze carrying the scent of wildflowers. It felt far from the hustle of the city, like a quiet retreat just for anglers. I grabbed my rod and tackle, paid the fee (more on that later), and found a spot near the western bank that looked promising.
Pond Basics: Size, Depth, and Accessibility
Key Details for Anglers
- Total area: 11 acres (about 4.45 hectares)
- Water depth: 1.5–2 meters (5–6.5 feet) – perfect for targeting crucian carp
- Location: Baiheshan Township, Dingcheng District, Changde, Hunan
- Accessibility: Paved roads lead right to the pond, with ample parking for cars and motorcycles
The pond’s size is ideal—big enough to have different fishing zones but small enough that you don’t feel lost. I noticed several other anglers spread out, each with their own space, so there’s no crowding. The water clarity is decent too; I could see small fish darting near the surface in the shallower areas, which got me even more excited to cast my line.
Fishing Experience at Mai Zi Pond
Target Species: Crucian Carp
As the name suggests, Mai Zi Crucian Carp Pond is stocked primarily with crucian carp (a popular freshwater fish in China). I used a light rod with a small hook and some corn bait— a classic combo for these fish. Within 15 minutes of casting, I felt a gentle tug on my line. I waited patiently, then reeled in a decent-sized crucian carp, about 12 inches long. It fought a bit, which made the catch even more satisfying!
Over the next few hours, I landed three more crucian carp, plus a small catfish that took a bite at my bait by accident. The fish were healthy and lively, a sign that the pond is well-maintained. I talked to a local angler who’s been coming here for years, and he said the pond is restocked regularly, so there’s always a good chance of catching fish—even for beginners.
Cost and Amenities
Pricing Details
The fee structure is straightforward: 10 yuan per kilogram (about $1.40 per pound) for the fish you catch. There’s no daily entry fee, which is a nice touch—you only pay for what you take home. I ended up with about 2.5 kilograms of fish, so my total cost was 25 yuan, plus a small fee for using a chair and umbrella (optional, but worth it for comfort).
Basic Amenities
- Portable restrooms near the parking area
- Small snack stand selling drinks and instant noodles
- Chairs and umbrellas available for rent (5–10 yuan each)
The amenities are simple but sufficient. I didn’t expect luxury, and that’s not what this spot is about—it’s all about the fishing and the relaxed atmosphere. The snack stand saved me from going hungry mid-day, and the restrooms were clean enough for a rural spot.
Final Thoughts: Would I Come Back?
Absolutely. Mai Zi Crucian Carp Pond isn’t a fancy resort-style fishing spot, but that’s what makes it special. It’s a no-frills, local gem where you can escape the city, focus on fishing, and enjoy the quiet. The fish are plentiful, the price is fair, and the scenery is beautiful. I even brought some of my catch home and cooked it for dinner—fresh crucian carp tastes amazing when it’s caught that day!
If you’re an angler in Changde or visiting the area, I highly recommend checking out Mai Zi Pond. Just remember to bring your own bait (corn works great) and arrive early on weekends to get a good spot. I’m already planning my next trip—maybe I’ll try to catch a bigger crucian carp this time!