My Day Trip to Hongshan Reservoir: Nanchong’s Under-the-Radar Fishing Haven
Last weekend, I packed my fishing rod, a cooler of snacks, and hopped in the car to check out Hongshan Reservoir-one of the most talked-about local fishing spots near Nanchong, Sichuan. I’d heard whispers about its quiet shores and steady catches, so I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. Spoiler: It did, and then some.
Where Exactly Is Hongshan Reservoir?
Hongshan Reservoir sits in Dongjiadian Village, Yuanshan Township, Langzhong City-just a short drive from downtown Nanchong. The route winds through lush farmlands and small villages, and the roads are well-paved the whole way. I left Nanchong at 7 a.m. and arrived by 8:30, which gave me plenty of time to set up before the morning bite picked up.
Hongshan Reservoir Fishing Fees & What’s Included
The first thing I noticed when I pulled up was the friendly old guy manning the small registration booth near the parking area. He greeted me with a grin and told me the daily fee was 50 yuan-super affordable, right? That fee covers all-day access to the reservoir’s fishing zones, and there are no hidden charges for rod rentals (though I brought my own). He also mentioned that if you stay until sunset, there’s no extra cost-perfect for anglers who love chasing the evening bite.
What Makes Hongshan Reservoir Special?
Once I walked down to the shore, I understood why locals rave about this spot. The reservoir is surrounded by rolling hills covered in bamboo and pine trees, and the water is crystal clear-you can see small fish darting around near the surface. Here’s what stood out most:
- Peaceful vibe: Unlike some crowded fishing spots near cities, Hongshan Reservoir never feels packed. I only saw about 10 other anglers during my visit, so I had my own little stretch of shore to relax in.
- Scenic views: Every time I reeled in a line, I’d glance up at the hills or watch the clouds reflect on the water. It’s not just a fishing spot-it’s a place to unwind and forget about work stress.
- Convenient amenities: There’s a small snack stand near the parking lot selling bottled water, instant noodles, and local peanuts. Plus, the restrooms are clean-always a win when you’re spending all day outdoors.
My Fishing Experience at Hongshan Reservoir
I set up my rod near a gentle cove (the old guy recommended it for carp and crucian carp) and baited my hook with corn kernels. Within 20 minutes, I felt a light tug-my first catch of the day, a plump crucian carp! Over the next few hours, I reeled in three more crucian carp and a small grass carp. The fish here are healthy and fight hard, which made every catch feel rewarding. Even when I wasn’t catching anything, I enjoyed listening to the birds chirp and watching dragonflies skitter across the water.
Pro Tips for First-Time Visitors
If you’re planning a trip to Hongshan Reservoir, here are a few things I wish I’d known before going:
- Arrive early (before 8 a.m.) to claim the best spots-especially the shaded coves near the west shore.
- Bring sun protection! The Sichuan sun can be harsh, even on cloudy days. I wore a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen, and I was still a little pink by the end of the day.
- Try local bait: The old guy at the booth sells homemade wheat bait that the fish here love. I used it for my last hour and caught two more fish-definitely worth the 5 yuan.
Why You Should Visit Hongshan Reservoir
Hongshan Reservoir isn’t just a fishing spot-it’s a chance to slow down and enjoy Sichuan’s countryside. Whether you’re an experienced angler chasing big catches or a beginner looking for a relaxed day outdoors, this place has something for everyone. I left at 5 p.m. with a cooler of fresh fish and a huge smile on my face. I already told my fishing buddies we’re going back next month-you should join us too!
