My Unplanned Fishing Adventure at Mugaoqiao Reservoir, Nanchong
Last month, I was scrolling through local fishing groups looking for a low-key spot to escape the city buzz, and a fellow angler mentioned “Mugaoqiao Reservoir in Nanchong” offhand. I’d never heard of it before-no flashy social media posts, no crowded tourist reviews. Curious, I grabbed my rod, packed some snacks, and hit the road from downtown Nanchong early on a Saturday. What I found turned out to be one of my favorite fishing spots this year.
Where Exactly Is Mugaoqiao Reservoir?
Mugaoqiao Reservoir sits in Shimiaozi, Muding Township, Yingshan County, Nanchong City, Sichuan Province. The drive took about 1.5 hours from Nanchong’s center, and the last 20 minutes were along smooth country roads lined with bamboo groves. I didn’t get lost once-Google Maps marked the spot clearly, and local villagers waved me in when I slowed down to check the signpost. Trust me, the journey alone is worth it for the fresh rural air.
Why I Fell for This Free Fishing Spot
Let’s cut to the best part: Mugaoqiao Reservoir is completely free. No entry fees, no per-rod charges, no hidden costs. I’ve fished at paid spots where you shell out 50-100 yuan just to cast, so this was a huge win. But the free price tag isn’t the only highlight:
- Peaceful vibe: When I arrived at 8 a.m., there were only 3 other anglers-all locals with their folding chairs and thermoses. No loud music, no pushing for prime spots. Just the sound of birds and water rippling.
- Scenic views: The reservoir is surrounded by rolling hills covered in green crops. I set up my rod under a willow tree by the shore, and every time I looked up, I saw clouds reflected in the clear water. It felt like a postcard, not a fishing spot.
- Decent catches: I targeted crucian carp and small catfish using earthworms as bait. By noon, I had 6 crucian carp (each about 200g) and a tiny catfish I released back. The locals told me if I come at dawn, I might hook bigger grass carp-next time, I’m setting my alarm earlier!
What to Know Before You Go
While Mugaoqiao Reservoir is a gem, a few tips will make your trip smoother:
- Bring your own gear: There’s no rental shop nearby, so pack rods, bait, a folding chair, and a cooler for your catches.
- Pack snacks and water: The nearest store is 10 minutes away by car, so don’t rely on buying food on-site.
- Respect the environment: Since it’s a free spot, there’s no cleaning crew. Take all your trash with you-I even picked up a few plastic bottles left by previous visitors to keep the shore clean.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit for Nanchong Anglers
I left Mugaoqiao Reservoir at 3 p.m., sunburnt but grinning, with a bag of fresh crucian carp to cook for dinner. What struck me most was how unspoiled it is-no commercialization, just pure, simple fishing joy. If you’re tired of crowded, expensive spots in Nanchong, this is your sign to check out Mugaoqiao Reservoir. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to practice, you won’t be disappointed.
Pro tip: Tag a friend who loves fishing-this spot is way more fun with someone to swap stories with while waiting for bites. I already texted my fishing buddy to plan our next trip there!
