Discover Dadao River: Nanjing’s Hidden Free Fishing Spot
If you’re a casual angler in Nanjing tired of crowded, paid fishing ponds, Dadao River in Qixia District is your new go-to. I stumbled upon this spot last month, and it’s quickly become my favorite weekend escape—no entry fees, abundant fish, and a peaceful natural vibe that’s hard to find in the city. Let me break down why Dadao River is worth your next fishing trip.
Location & Accessibility: Easy to Reach from Nanjing City
Dadao River sits right opposite Chenzhuang Drainage Station in Chenzhuang Village, Qixia District. The best part? Getting there is a breeze. I drive from downtown Nanjing, and it only takes 40 minutes—no winding mountain roads, just smooth urban and rural connectors. If you don’t have a car, take Bus 207 to Chenzhuang Village Stop, then a 10-minute walk along the village path (locals can point you in the right direction if you ask). The area around the river has flat grassy banks, so you don’t have to worry about tricky terrain for setting up your gear.
What Makes Dadao River a Great Wild Fishing Spot?
As a wild, natural river, Dadao River has all the charm that man-made ponds lack. Here’s what stands out:
- Free & Unmanaged: No tickets, no rules (other than basic fishing etiquette, of course). You can fish from sunrise to sunset without anyone bothering you.
- Rich Fish Varieties: I’ve caught crucian carp, grass carp, and even some small catfish here. Local anglers I chatted with say they’ve hooked bigger specimens too—you just need a bit of patience.
- Ideal Water Depth: The river is about 2 meters deep on average. It’s deep enough to hold larger fish but not so deep that you struggle with line control, which is perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.
- Peaceful Ambiance: Unlike busy fishing clubs, Dadao River is quiet. The only sounds are birds chirping, the river flowing, and the occasional splash of a fish. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long week.
My Fishing Experience at Dadao River
Last Saturday, I arrived at 7 a.m. with my rod, a bucket of bait, and a thermos of tea. I set up my spot on the east bank—there’s a shaded area under a willow tree that’s perfect for hot days. I used earthworms as bait (locals swear by them here), and within 15 minutes, I felt a tug on my line. It was a 20cm crucian carp—small, but a great start. By noon, I’d caught 5 more crucian carp and a tiny grass carp (which I released back into the river). I packed a picnic and ate by the bank, watching dragonflies skitter across the water. It was one of the most relaxing days I’ve had in months.
Tips for Fishing at Dadao River
To make your trip smoother, keep these tips in mind:
- Bring insect repellent—there are mosquitoes near the river, especially in the morning and evening.
- Use natural bait (earthworms or corn) instead of artificial lures; the wild fish here seem to prefer it.
- Don’t leave trash behind. The river is clean because anglers take care of it—let’s keep it that way.
- Go early (before 8 a.m.) or late (after 4 p.m.) for better catches; the fish are more active during these times.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Dadao River
Dadao River isn’t just a fishing spot—it’s a place to slow down and enjoy nature. Whether you’re looking to catch your dinner or just spend a quiet day outdoors, this free Nanjing fishing spot delivers. I’ve already told three of my fishing buddies about it, and they’re planning to join me next weekend. If you’re in Nanjing and love fishing, don’t miss out on Dadao River—you might just find your new favorite spot too.
