Discover Laodesheng River: My Go-To Free Fishing Spot in Changzhou
If you’re an angler in Changzhou hunting for a budget-friendly, laid-back fishing spot with real potential, let me tell you about my favorite local gem: Laodesheng River in Xinbei District. I’ve spent countless weekends here, casting lines and swapping stories with other local fishermen, so I know this spot inside and out.
Basic Details: What You Need to Know Before You Go
First off, let’s get the basics straight — this spot is 100% free. No entry fees, no day passes, just you, your gear, and the water. Laodesheng River is tucked away in Bei’erwei, Chunjiang Town, and it’s got that quiet, rural charm you don’t find in the busy city fishing spots.
- Location: Bei’erwei, Chunjiang Town, Xinbei District, Changzhou, Jiangsu
- Cost: Absolutely free for all anglers
- Available Fishing Area: Only the northernmost stretch of the river (west bank has all the accessible fishing spots)
The Glory Days and Current Setup
A few years back, this river was the stuff of local angler legends. Old-timers still talk about the massive, well-aged fish that swam these waters — we’re talking trophy-worthy catches that made every trip feel like an adventure. It was the golden fishing spot within a 30-minute drive, and you’d find a dozen anglers lined up along the banks every weekend.
These days, things have shifted. Local villagers have sectioned off most of the river with nets to raise their own fish, which means the only open area for casual anglers is the far northern end. It’s a smaller stretch, but don’t let that turn you off — the fish that live here are still used to natural feeding patterns, and they put up a fun fight.
My Personal Tips for Fishing Laodesheng River
After half a dozen trips here, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference:
- Stick to the west bank: The east side is overgrown and hard to access, plus the current on the west bank creates perfect hiding spots for fish.
- Go early: I’ve had my best luck showing up at 6 a.m. when the water is calm, and the fish are actively feeding before the midday heat sets in.
- Use natural bait: Worms and local river shrimp work way better here than fancy lures — the fish here are used to foraging for natural food.
- Bring a chair and snacks: There are no facilities here, so come prepared to stay a while. I always pack a cooler with cold water and a sandwich, since the time flies when you’re waiting for a bite.
What to Expect on a Typical Trip
Last month, I spent a Saturday morning here with my buddy, and it was the perfect low-key escape. We set up our chairs on the west bank, cast our lines, and within 20 minutes, I hooked into a solid carp that put up a 10-minute fight. By mid-morning, we’d both caught a handful of smaller carp and a few silver crucian carp, nothing huge, but enough to make the trip feel rewarding.
The best part? The vibe is super relaxed. No one’s rushing to pack up and leave, and local anglers are always happy to swap tips or even share extra bait if you run out. It’s not about catching the biggest fish — it’s about sitting by the river, listening to the birds, and forgetting about work for a few hours.
If you’re tired of crowded, paid fishing ponds and want a spot where you can just unwind and enjoy the act of fishing, give Laodesheng River a try. Next time I head out, I’m bringing my dad — he’s been craving a quiet fishing trip, and I know he’ll love the laid-back energy here. If you end up going, feel free to wave if you see a guy in a faded blue hat with a portable cooler by his side!