My Unforgettable Day at Xiaogu Fisherman’s Home – Nanchong’s Hidden Fishing Gem
As an avid angler who’s explored half of Sichuan’s fishing spots, I’ve always craved a place that balances great catches, peaceful vibes, and easy access. Last weekend, I finally found it: Xiaogu Fisherman’s Home in Nanchong. Tucked away in Hongqi Village, Tiebian Township, Nanbu County, this spot isn’t just a fishing ground-it’s a quick escape from the city’s chaos. Let me walk you through every detail of my day here, so you can plan your own trip!
First Impressions: Location & Accessibility
Getting to Xiaogu Fisherman’s Home was smoother than I expected. From downtown Nanchong, I took a 1.5-hour drive west to Nanbu County, then followed the well-signposted rural roads to Tiebian Township. The last stretch to Hongqi Village winds through green farmlands and bamboo groves-no bumpy dirt roads, which was a huge relief for my car. By 8 AM, I was pulling into the parking area (yes, they have a dedicated spot!) and greeted by the owner, Brother Gu, who’s as friendly as he is knowledgeable about the waters.
What to Know About Fees & Rules
Let’s cut to the chase: the cost here is super budget-friendly. The daily fee is 80 yuan per person, which covers full-day access (from dawn to dusk) to all fishing areas. No hidden charges-no extra fees for rod rentals (though I brought my own) or parking. Brother Gu told me the rules are simple but strict: catch and release isn’t mandatory, but if you take fish home, there’s no additional charge (unlike some spots that weight your catch!). Just make sure to clean up your trash-they take environmental protection seriously here.
The Fishing Experience: Water Depth & What I Caught
Here’s the part every angler cares about: the waters. Xiaogu Fisherman’s Home sits on a reservoir with an average depth of 40 meters-deep enough to hold big fish, but with shallow edges (around 5-10 meters) near the shore for beginners. I set up my rod at a shaded spot by the west bank, baited with earthworms (Brother Gu recommended them for local carp), and waited. Within 20 minutes, my float dipped sharply-I reeled in a 1.2kg common carp! Over the day, I landed 3 carp, 2 grass carp, and a few small crucian carp. The bite was steady until mid-afternoon, when the sun got too hot (pro tip: bring a sun umbrella!).
Environment & Facilities: More Than Just Fishing
What surprised me most was how well-maintained the spot is. The banks are trimmed, with wooden benches scattered for rest, and there’s a small snack stand selling cold drinks and local snacks (try the spicy tofu pudding-you won’t regret it). The surrounding hills are covered in pine trees, so the air smells like fresh resin, and the only sounds are birds chirping and the water lapping at the shore. My wife, who’s not into fishing, spent the day taking photos of the scenery and chatting with local villagers-she had just as much fun as I did!
Final Tips for Your Trip
- Best time to go: Early morning (6-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-7 PM) for the best bite.
- Bring: Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, umbrella), insect repellent, and your favorite bait (earthworms or corn work best here).
- Stay hydrated: The snack stand has bottled water, but bringing a thermos of tea is even better.
On my way home, I stopped at a roadside restaurant to cook my fresh carp-nothing tastes better than a meal you caught yourself. If you’re in Nanchong or nearby, do yourself a favor and visit Xiaogu Fisherman’s Home. It’s not the most famous spot, but it’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back every month. Tag a friend who loves fishing-this is your sign to plan that weekend trip!
