Why Chengzi Lake in Siyang Should Be Your Next Fishing Destination
As an avid angler who’s explored dozens of fishing spots across Jiangsu, I was blown away by my day at Chengzi Lake in Siyang, a hidden gem in Suqian. When I first heard about a fully free, natural lake teeming with fish, I was skeptical—most spots with this kind of vibe either charge a fortune or are stripped bare by overfishing. But let me tell you, this place exceeded every expectation I had.
Where to Find Chengzi Lake’s Prime Fishing Spot
Nestled along Zengzui Jin Yan Road in Luji Town, Siyang County, Suqian, this lake is surprisingly easy to reach. I drove from downtown Siyang in just 40 minutes, and the parking area right by the shore was spacious enough for dozens of cars—no circling for spots or hiking a mile with gear, which is a huge win for anyone hauling rods, coolers, and tackle boxes.
What Makes This Fishing Spot Stand Out
- 100% Free Access: No entry fees, no daily fishing permits, no hidden costs. You can fish from sunrise to sunset without pulling out your wallet.
- Consistent Water Depth: The lake stays around 2 meters deep most of the year, which is perfect for targeting a variety of freshwater species. I spent hours casting for crucian carp and grass carp, and both bit consistently throughout the day.
- Thriving Angler Community: When I arrived at 7 a.m., the shore was already dotted with 20+ anglers, from kids with their first rods to seasoned pros with fancy setups. Everyone was happy to swap tips—one guy even gave me a handful of his secret bait mix that helped me land my biggest catch of the day.
- Scenic, Relaxing Environment: The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, with the occasional breeze carrying the scent of nearby rice fields. There’s no loud traffic or crowded tourist areas, just the sound of waves, bird calls, and the satisfying plop of baits hitting the water.
My Day on the Water: A Firsthand Experience
I set up my rod on the western shore, where a local angler told me the fish tend to gather in the shade of the overhanging trees. Within 15 minutes, I felt a firm tug on my line and reeled in a plump 2-pound crucian carp—my first catch of the day. As the sun climbed higher, I switched to a float rig and started catching smaller bream, which I released back into the lake to keep the population healthy.
By midday, I pulled out my packed lunch and sat on the grassy bank, watching other anglers celebrate their catches. A group of college students nearby landed a 4-pound grass carp, and the whole shoreline cheered them on. It’s not often you find a fishing spot where competition takes a backseat to camaraderie, but that’s exactly what makes Chengzi Lake special.
Pro Tips for Your First Visit
If you’re planning a trip here, keep these quick tips in mind to make the most of your day:
- Bring bug spray: The tall grass around the lake can have mosquitoes in the early morning and late evening.
- Pack a portable chair: The shore is mostly grassy, but a chair will keep you comfortable during long casting sessions.
- Test different baits: Local anglers swear by corn and earthworms, but I had luck with store-bought carp bait too.
- Leave no trace: Since this is a free, natural spot, it’s up to us anglers to keep it clean. Bring a trash bag and take all your wrappers, bait containers, and fishing line with you when you leave.
Honestly, I’ve already texted three of my fishing buddies to plan a return trip next weekend. If you’re tired of overpriced, crowded fishing spots that don’t deliver, give Chengzi Lake in Siyang a shot. Whether you’re looking to land a trophy catch or just spend a quiet day outdoors, this spot has something for everyone. I can’t wait to hear about your own catches when you visit!