Heyang Fishing Spot: Hepi Pond – A Free Angler’s Paradise in Hunan

My First Trip to Hepi Pond: A Hidden Gem in Xiangyin County

As an avid angler who’s explored countless fishing spots across Hunan, I stumbled upon Hepi Pond by chance last month-and it’s quickly become my go-to spot for a relaxing day by the water. Tucked away in Maoliuwan Village, Baimasi Town, Xiangyin County (about 400 meters north of the village), this spot isn’t just easy to find; it’s a breath of fresh air for anyone tired of crowded, paid fishing parks.

Getting there was a breeze: I took a local bus from Yueyang City to Xiangyin, then hopped on a motorbike taxi for the final stretch. The driver even knew Hepi Pond by name, which is a good sign it’s a local favorite. As I approached, the sound of crickets and distant birdcalls replaced the city’s hum, and the scent of water lilies (yes, *hepi* means “lotus skin” in Chinese-there are tons of lotus pads here!) wrapped around me.

What Makes Hepi Pond Stand Out: More Than Just Free Fishing

Zero Cost, No Hidden Fees

Let’s cut to the chase: Hepi Pond is 100% free to fish at. No daily permits, no equipment rentals, no “catch and release” fees-just grab your rod and go. That’s a game-changer for casual anglers like me who don’t want to drop cash every time they want to cast a line. I’ve been to spots where you pay 50-100 RMB just to get in, so this feels like a total steal.

Location & Accessibility

While it’s in a small village, Hepi Pond is surprisingly easy to reach. Here’s what I love about the location:

• 400 meters north of Maoliuwan Village, Baimasi Town-local drivers know the spot, so you won’t get lost;
• Flat, paved paths lead right to the water’s edge, so no trekking through mud;
• Plenty of open space for parking (if you drive) or setting up a small picnic blanket.

The Fishing Experience: What to Expect

The pond is teeming with common freshwater fish-carp, crucian carp, and even the occasional catfish. I used a simple float rig with corn as bait (a local angler’s tip!) and caught three small crucian carp within an hour. The water is clear enough to see fish darting around the lotus roots, which adds a fun, interactive twist to the day.

One thing to note: the pond has shallow spots near the shore (great for beginners) and deeper areas (perfect for more experienced anglers targeting bigger fish). I stuck to the shallow side and had a blast watching my float bob up and down.

Why Hepi Pond Feels Like a Hidden Paradise

It’s not just the free fishing that makes Hepi Pond special-it’s the vibe. There are no loud speakers, no overcrowded banks, just a handful of local anglers chatting quietly or kids chasing dragonflies. Last trip, I met an elderly local man who’s been fishing here for 20 years; he taught me how to tie a better knot and shared stories about how the pond has changed over the years. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, breathe, and remember why you love fishing in the first place.

The environment is stunning too: lotus flowers bloom in summer, willow trees shade the banks, and the water reflects the sky like a mirror. I brought a sandwich and ate it by the water, watching a heron stand still for 10 minutes before snatching a fish. It’s the little moments like that that make Hepi Pond unforgettable.

Pro Tips for Your Visit

Before you head out, here are a few things I learned the hard way:

• Bring bug spray! The lotus pads attract mosquitoes, especially in the evening;
• Pack a small cooler with water and snacks-there are no shops nearby;
• Respect the local rules: don’t litter, and only take what you catch (no overfishing);
• Visit in spring or autumn for mild weather-summer can get hot, and winter is a bit chilly for fishing.

Since my first trip, I’ve been back three times. Each time, I meet new people, catch a few fish, and leave feeling more relaxed than when I arrived. Hepi Pond isn’t just a fishing spot-it’s a little slice of peace in the middle of Hunan. If you’re in Yueyang or Xiangyin and love fishing (or just love being outdoors), do yourself a favor and check it out. I promise you won’t be disappointed.