My Unforgettable Fishing Day at Mao’er Cave Reservoir, Guiyang
Last weekend, I finally checked off a spot I’d been eyeing for months: Mao’er Cave Reservoir in Guiyang. As someone who’s fished at half a dozen reservoirs around Guizhou, I can say this one’s a keeper—here’s why.
Where Exactly Is Mao’er Cave Reservoir?
Nestled in Yonghe Village, Xindian Town, Qingzhen City (a short drive from downtown Guiyang), this spot feels like a secret escape. The drive took me about 40 minutes from Guiyang’s city center, and the last stretch winds through quiet village roads lined with bamboo—total vibe check for a peaceful fishing day.
What Makes This Fishing Spot Special?
First off, it’s an original ecological natural reservoir—no overdeveloped shores or noisy crowds. The reservoir covers around 50 mu (that’s roughly 8.2 acres) of land, with a water surface of about 30 mu (4.95 acres). The water depth hits 5 to 7 meters, which is perfect for targeting bigger fish like grass carp and silver carp. And here’s the best part: you pick your own fishing spot! I chose a shaded corner by a cluster of willows, and the calm water made it easy to spot ripples from biting fish.
Fishing Costs & Practical Tips
The fee? Only 50 yuan per day—super budget-friendly for a full day of fishing fun. A few quick tips to make your trip smoother:
- Since you choose your own spot, arrive early (before 8 AM) to grab the shaded, deep-water spots—they fill up fast on weekends!
- The water is deep, so wear non-slip shoes and watch your step when moving around the shore.
- Bring a portable chair and snacks—there’s no snack stand nearby, so come prepared.
Fish Stock & My Catch
The reservoir kicked off its official opening on National Day 2025, and let me tell you, the fish are thriving. They released 100,000 grass carp, common carp, and silver carp that year, plus an extra 5000 jin (2500 kg) of fish in irregular batches since then. I used corn bait, and within an hour, I hooked a 2-kilogram grass carp—my arms were sore from reeling it in, but it was so worth it! By noon, I’d caught three more medium-sized common carp—definitely one of my most productive fishing days this year.
Final Thoughts (And a Friendly Invite)
By the end of the day, my bucket was half-full, my sunhat was askew, and I had a huge grin on my face. Mao’er Cave Reservoir isn’t just a fishing spot—it’s a place to slow down, listen to birds chirp, and forget about city stress. If you’re a fishing fan in Guiyang or passing through, don’t miss this hidden gem. Tag a friend who loves fishing—let’s plan a group trip next month!
