Discovering Erlongkou Reservoir: My Go-To Free Fishing Spot Near Xi’an
As someone who’s spent years chasing fish around Xi’an, I’m always on the hunt for hidden gems that don’t break the bank. Last month, a local angler buddy tipped me off about Erlongkou Reservoir- a spot I’d never even heard of, but now it’s at the top of my list. What’s more? It’s completely free to fish here. Let me walk you through why this place is worth the drive, from the scenic setting to the actual fishing experience.
Location & How to Get There
Erlongkou Reservoir sits in the quiet countryside of Laoyang Village, Xiangqiao Town, Lintong District- about an hour’s drive from downtown Xi’an (depending on traffic). If you’re using Google Maps, just search “Erlongkou Reservoir Xi’an” and the directions will pop up. The road is paved all the way, so even if you’re driving a regular car, you won’t have trouble. There’s a small parking area near the entrance, and from there, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the water’s edge. No tricky off-roading or long hikes here- perfect for a casual day trip.
What Makes Erlongkou Reservoir Stand Out
- Free Access: Unlike many commercial fishing spots in Xi’an that charge per hour or per day, Erlongkou has no fees. That’s a huge win for anglers who want to fish all day without worrying about costs.
- Scenic Setting: The reservoir is surrounded by rolling hills and greenery. On a clear day, you can see the distant Qinling Mountains peeking over the horizon. It’s not just about fishing- it’s about being in nature. I’ve even brought a picnic blanket before and enjoyed lunch by the water.
- Good Fish Population: From what I’ve seen, the reservoir has common carp, crucian carp, and even some small catfish. I caught three carp on my first visit (average size around 1-2 pounds) using corn as bait. Local anglers say the best time to go is early morning or late afternoon, when the fish are more active.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Before you head out, here are a few quick tips to make your trip smoother:
- Bring enough water and snacks- there are no shops nearby.
- Wear comfortable shoes (the shore is a bit rocky in spots).
- Check the weather ahead- if it’s been raining, the water might be murky, which can slow down the fishing.
- Respect the environment- take all your trash with you, and don’t leave any fishing gear behind.
My Personal Experience at Erlongkou
When I first arrived, I was surprised by how peaceful it was. There were only a handful of other anglers, and no loud music or crowds- just the sound of water and birds. I set up my rod near a small cove (a local said that’s a hot spot for carp) and baited with sweet corn. Within 30 minutes, I felt a tug! It was a feisty carp that put up a good fight before I reeled it in. Later, I tried a different spot near the dam and caught a small crucian carp too. By the end of the day, I had three fish, which I took home to cook- fresh, flaky, and delicious.
What I loved most was the lack of pressure. No one was rushing me, and I could take my time enjoying the scenery. I even met an older local angler who gave me a tip about using fermented corn for bigger carp. I’m definitely going back to test that out!
Final Thoughts: Is Erlongkou Reservoir Worth a Visit?
If you’re an angler in Xi’an looking for a free, scenic spot to fish, Erlongkou Reservoir is a no-brainer. It’s not the most “high-end” fishing spot, but it’s authentic and full of charm. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find something to love here. Next time I go, I’m planning to bring a friend and maybe try night fishing (I’ve heard the catfish bite is great after dark). Have you been to Erlongkou? Let me know your favorite spot or bait in the comments below!
