Discovering Dalong Reservoir: My Yichun Fishing Adventure
When I first heard about Dalong Reservoir from a local angler in Yichun, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Free fishing spots in China’s Jiangxi province are rare, so I packed my gear, grabbed a friend, and set off to check it out. Located in Huibu Town, Fengxin County—about 500 meters south of Xiaoguan Village in Jiezi Village—this spot isn’t the easiest to reach, but the experience felt worth it.
Getting to Dalong Reservoir: The Road Less Traveled
Let’s be honest: the drive to Dalong Reservoir isn’t for the faint of heart. The final stretch of road is rough, with potholes and narrow paths that make it impossible to drive directly to the fishing spots. We had to park our car about 10 minutes away and hike the rest of the way, carrying our rods and tackle. The hike wasn’t too bad—just a short walk through some trees—but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re bringing heavy gear or fishing with kids.
What to Expect at Dalong Reservoir: Water, Fish, and Scenery
Once we reached the shore, I noticed a few key things right away: the water clarity isn’t great (the local said it’s “average” quality), and there are tons of water plants floating near the banks. At first, I worried the plants would mess with our lines, but they actually created perfect hiding spots for small fish—especially crucian carp, which are the most common catch here.
- Water quality: Average (not crystal clear, but safe for fishing)
- Common fish: Small crucian carp (great for beginners)
- Bank conditions: Muddy in spots, so wear waterproof shoes
My Fishing Experience: Catching Small but Fun Fish
I set up my rod with a simple float and worm bait, and within 10 minutes, I got my first bite. It was a tiny crucian carp—maybe 3-4 inches long—but it put up a good fight! Over the next few hours, we caught about 15 small fish total. None were big enough to keep (we released most), but that’s not the point here. Dalong Reservoir is more about the casual, laid-back vibe than landing trophy fish.
One thing to note: the local anglers use small hooks and light line because the fish are tiny. If you bring heavy gear, you might miss bites entirely. I saw a guy next to me using a big carp rod, and he barely caught anything—stick to light tackle!
Pro Tips for Visiting Dalong Reservoir
Before you head out, here are a few tips to make your trip smoother:
- Wear waterproof boots: The banks are muddy, especially after rain
- Bring snacks and water: There are no shops nearby
- Arrive early: The best fishing spots fill up quickly on weekends
- Check the weather: The road gets even worse when it’s wet
As the sun started to set, we packed up our gear and hiked back to the car. My hands were a little muddy, and I didn’t catch any big fish, but I left with a smile. Dalong Reservoir isn’t a fancy spot, but it’s a great place to unwind, practice your casting, and enjoy the quiet of the countryside. If you’re in Yichun and want a free, low-pressure fishing day, this is the spot for you.