Xikeng Reservoir Fishing Spots in Jiangmen: A Free Angling Gem for Enthusiasts

Discovering Xikeng Reservoir: My First Visit to Jiangmen’s Hidden Fishing Spot

Last month, I packed my fishing gear and headed to Jiangmen with a friend who’s been raving about Xikeng Reservoir. I’d heard it’s a free fishing spot-something rare in many parts of China, so I was curious to see if it lived up to the hype. Located in Enping District’s Niujang Town, about 200 meters south of Hushan Mountain, the drive was surprisingly smooth. The roads leading to the reservoir were well-paved, and as we got closer, the scenery shifted from urban edges to lush green hills and open water. I immediately felt my stress melt away; this wasn’t just a fishing spot-it felt like a escape.

When we arrived around 7 AM, the shoreline wasn’t crowded, but there were a few other anglers scattered along the banks. Most were locals, which is always a good sign-they know the best spots. I set up my rod near a cluster of reeds, figuring fish might hide there from the morning sun. Within 20 minutes, I got my first bite: a small but feisty tilapia. It wasn’t a trophy catch, but the thrill of the tug on the line made me grin. My friend, who’s more experienced, landed a 1.2-pound (1 kg) grass carp an hour later-proof the reservoir has decent-sized fish.

What Makes Xikeng Reservoir Stand Out for Anglers?

1. No Entry Fees: A Budget-Friendly Angling Paradise

Let’s start with the biggest draw: free fishing access. Unlike many commercial fishing spots in Jiangmen that charge 50–100 RMB per day, Xikeng Reservoir doesn’t require any permits or fees. This makes it perfect for casual anglers who want to spend a few hours by the water without breaking the bank. I talked to a local angler named Lao Wang who visits every weekend; he said he’s been coming here for 5 years because “the price can’t be beat, and the fish are always biting if you know where to cast.”

2. Accessible Location & Easy Parking

Getting to Xikeng Reservoir is straightforward, even if you’re not familiar with Enping. If you’re driving from Jiangmen City Center, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive via the Guangzhou-Zhanjiang Expressway. Once you exit the highway, follow signs to Niujang Town, then turn onto the road leading to Hushan Mountain-you’ll see the reservoir on your left after about 200 meters. Parking is available along the roadside (no designated lot, but there’s plenty of space for 1–15 cars at a time) and it’s free too. I didn’t have to worry about finding a spot, even on a Saturday morning.

3. Diverse Fish Species & Scenic Surroundings

The reservoir is home to a variety of freshwater fish, including:

• Tilapia (common, especially near shallow reeds)
• Grass carp (larger specimens found in deeper waters)
• Common carp (popular target for local anglers)
• Snakehead (occasional catches near lily pads)

I also noticed the water is clean-no murky green tint or odd smells, which is a good sign for fish health. The surrounding area is dotted with bamboo groves and wild flowers, so even if you’re not catching fish, the view is worth it. I brought a picnic blanket and had lunch by the shore; the breeze off the water kept me cool, and I even spotted a few egrets flying overhead.

Tips for First-Time Visitors to Xikeng Reservoir

Arrive Early for the Best Spots

The most popular fishing areas (near the reeds and the small cove on the east side) fill up by 8 AM on weekends. I got there at 7, and by 8:30, the shoreline was pretty busy. If you want a quiet spot, aim for 6–7 AM, especially in summer when the morning is cooler.

Bring the Right Gear

Since the reservoir has both shallow and deep areas, I recommend:

• A medium-action rod (good for both small and large fish)
• 10–15 lb test line (to handle grass carp and common carp)
• Live bait (earthworms or corn work well for tilapia and carp)
• Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent (the sun is strong, and there are mosquitoes near the reeds)

I forgot insect repellent and ended up with a few bites, so don’t make my mistake!

Respect the Environment

Lao Wang, the local angler, told me that the reservoir is maintained by local villagers, so it’s important to keep the area clean. I saw several anglers packing out their trash, and there were a few bins near the roadside. Make sure to leave no trace-this helps keep the spot free and accessible for everyone.

My Final Thoughts: Would I Come Back to Xikeng Reservoir?

Absolutely. Even though I only caught a few small tilapia, the experience was worth it. The free access, easy drive, and beautiful scenery make Xikeng Reservoir a must-visit for any angler in Jiangmen. I’m already planning my next trip-this time, I’ll bring more live bait and try the deeper cove where my friend caught the grass carp. If you’re looking for a low-key fishing spot that doesn’t cost a fortune, Xikeng Reservoir is definitely worth adding to your list.