Discovering Li Jiagou Reservoir: My Go-To Fishing Spot Near Xi’an
When I first heard about Li Jiagou Reservoir from a local angler friend, I was skeptical—Xi’an isn’t exactly known for its world-class fishing spots, right? But after packing my gear and making the trip to this hidden gem in Lantian County, I quickly changed my tune. Tucked away in Sanguanmiao Town, about 500 meters east of Li Jiagou Village, this reservoir isn’t just a place to cast a line; it’s a slice of peaceful countryside that’s become my weekend escape.
Getting There & First Impressions
Getting to Li Jiagou Reservoir was easier than I expected. From downtown Xi’an, it’s roughly a 90-minute drive (traffic permitting), and the roads are well-paved—no bumpy dirt tracks to worry about, which is a huge plus for anyone hauling fishing equipment. As I pulled into the small parking area, the first thing that hit me was the quiet. No loud city noise, just the sound of birds and water lapping against the shore. The surroundings are lush with greenery, and the reservoir itself stretches out, looking calm and inviting. It’s the kind of place that makes you forget about work emails and deadlines the second you step out of the car.
Fees & Membership Options
Let’s get down to the practical stuff—fees. As a casual angler, I opted for the day pass, which costs 100 yuan per day. What’s great about this rate is that it includes a catch limit of 5 pounds (about 2.27 kg) of fish to take home. If you’re a regular, though, the membership options might be worth checking out. A friend of mine is a member, and he swears by the value: while the annual fee recently went back up to 1980 yuan (from a temporary 1280 yuan), it lets you fish as often as you want with no daily fees, plus you can take home up to 5 pounds of fish each time (or even more, depending on the day—he’s brought home some decent-sized carp before).
What You Need to Know About Rules
- Day passes are cash-only (or mobile payment, but better to check ahead).
- Members need to show their ID card to access the spot.
- There are no on-site bait shops, so bring your own worms, lures, or whatever you prefer.
- Keep the area clean—there are trash bins, but it’s always good practice to take your waste with you.
My Fishing Experience at Li Jiagou
On my first visit, I set up my rod near the western shore, where a local angler told me the carp tend to gather. I used a simple corn bait, and within 30 minutes, I had a bite! It was a small common carp, but the fight was fun—definitely got my heart racing. Later in the day, I switched to a float rig and caught a few crucian carp, which are pretty common here. What I loved most was that the water is clean, so the fish are healthy and put up a good fight. I didn’t catch anything huge, but that’s not the point for me—Li Jiagou is more about the relaxation than landing a trophy fish.
One thing to note: the reservoir has designated fishing areas, so make sure you don’t set up in restricted spots (usually marked with signs). Also, the best times to fish are early morning (around 6–8 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM), when the fish are more active. I went around 10 AM on my first trip, and the bite slowed down a bit around noon, but picked back up later in the day.
Facilities & Amenities
Let’s be real—Li Jiagou isn’t a fancy resort. It’s a no-frills fishing spot, which is part of its charm. There are a few basic facilities:
- Portable toilets near the parking area.
- Shaded areas with benches if you need a break from the sun.
- No food stalls, so bring snacks, water, and maybe a packed lunch.
If you’re used to high-end fishing resorts with restaurants and gear rentals, this might not be for you. But if you love the raw, unpretentious feel of a local spot, you’ll fit right in.
Final Thoughts: Is Li Jiagou Reservoir Worth a Visit?
For me, absolutely. It’s not the most convenient spot if you’re staying in central Xi’an, but the drive is worth it for the peace and quiet. I’ve already planned my next trip—this time with a few friends, and we’re going to set up a small picnic by the shore. If you’re an angler looking for a break from the city, or just someone who wants to try fishing for the first time in a low-pressure environment, Li Jiagou Reservoir is a hidden treasure. Just remember to bring your patience, your favorite bait, and maybe a hat—those Xi’an sun rays can be strong!
