Discovering Huihe Dam: My Go-To Free Fishing Spot in Bengbu
As someone who’s spent countless weekends chasing fish around Anhui, I stumbled on Huihe Dam in Bengbu last spring—and it’s quickly become my favorite free angling spot. Tucked away in Gucheng County (part of Bengbu), this dam isn’t just a pretty backdrop; it’s a consistent spot for bites, especially if you know where to cast. Let me break down why this spot stands out, from the location to the best fishing tips I’ve picked up.
Location & Scenery: Where to Find Huihe Dam
Huihe Dam sits along the Hui River, just 200 meters west of the Gucheng County Entrepreneurship Park on X013 Road. The drive here is surprisingly easy—even if you’re coming from downtown Bengbu, the roads are well-marked, and the park’s sign makes it hard to miss. Once you arrive, the scenery hits you: the dam stretches across the river, with lush greenery lining both the north and south banks. On sunny days, the water glints, and you’ll spot locals setting up chairs or spreading out blankets—this isn’t just a fishing spot; it’s a community hub.
Pro tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunrise if you want the best bank spots. The north side tends to fill up fast on weekends, but the south bank has more open space for casting without crowding.
Fishing Conditions: What’s Biting at Huihe Dam?
The first thing I love about Huihe Dam? It’s free—no entry fees, no day passes, no hidden costs. That alone makes it a win for casual anglers and budget-conscious fishing buddies. But the real draw is the fish activity. Locals call the main catch “pig snout” (a local freshwater fish, though I’ve also caught small carp and catfish here), and the bite has been steady lately—especially if you target areas away from the ship lock.
- Best spots: Avoid the ship lock area (water current here is too strong, and fish tend to move away). Head 50-100 meters north or south of the lock for calmer water.
- Bait tips: “Pig snout” loves live worms or small pieces of corn. I’ve had luck with scented dough baits too, but keep it simple—locals swear by plain worms.
- Time to fish: Early morning (6-8 AM) and late afternoon (4-6 PM) are peak times. The water cools down, and fish come up to feed.
My Personal Experience: A Successful Afternoon Cast
Last month, I brought my 5-foot rod and a bucket of worms, arriving at 5 PM. The south bank was quiet—only a few retirees chatting while reeling in small catches. I set up near a cluster of reeds (a common spot for fish to hide) and cast my line. Within 10 minutes, I felt a tug—nothing huge, but a decent “pig snout” that put up a fight. Over the next two hours, I landed three more, plus a small catfish that I released. The best part? The view: as the sun set, the sky turned pink, and the dam’s outline glowed against the water. It’s not just about catching fish; it’s about slowing down and enjoying the moment.
What to Bring (and What to Skip)
Since Huihe Dam is free and low-key, you don’t need fancy gear—but there are a few essentials:
- A folding chair (the banks are grassy, but sitting on the ground gets uncomfortable after an hour).
- Sunscreen and a hat (the sun beats down from 10 AM to 3 PM, and there’s not much shade).
- A small cooler for water (staying hydrated is key—there are no vending machines nearby).
- Plenty of bait (worms are easy to find at local pet stores in Gucheng, but bring extra).
Skip the heavy equipment: the banks are narrow in spots, so a long rod might get tangled in trees. Stick to 4-6 foot rods for easy casting.
Respect the Spot: Leave No Trace
One thing I’ve noticed is how well locals take care of Huihe Dam. There are no trash cans, so everyone brings a bag to take their waste home. I always bring a extra bag to pick up any stray plastic or fishing line I find—small acts keep the spot clean for everyone. Also, be mindful of other anglers: don’t cast over someone’s line, and keep your voice down if you’re near families or quiet fishers.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just looking for a lazy afternoon by the water, Huihe Dam is worth the trip. It’s free, scenic, and full of small surprises—like the time I saw a heron land nearby while I was reeling in a catch. Next time you’re in Bengbu, grab your rod and head to X013 Road—you won’t regret it.