Nantong Fishing Spot: Qiu Hu Central River – A Free Angling Gem in Jiangsu

Fishing Spots & Locations

March 2, 2026

Nantong Fishing Spot: Qiu Hu Central River – A Free Angling Gem in Jiangsu

Why Qiu Hu Central River Stands Out in Nantong’s Angling Scene

When I first heard about Qiu Hu Central River from a local fishing buddy, I was skeptical—free fishing spots in Jiangsu often come with trade-offs, like small fish or crowded banks. But after spending a full Saturday there last month, I’m already planning my next trip. This spot isn’t just free; it’s a well-kept angling haven that checks every box for casual and dedicated fishermen alike.

Nestled in the Haian District of Nantong (specifically in Qiu Hu Town, west of Xuejia She Village), Qiu Hu Central River isn’t a tiny pond—it’s a sprawling waterway that feels like a hidden escape from the city. The drive there was surprisingly smooth; my GPS guided me straight to the parking area near the riverbank, and I didn’t have to hike or navigate bumpy backroads. That’s a big win for anyone who hates complicated access!

What Makes Qiu Hu Central River Worth Your Time?

1. Free Access (No Hidden Fees)

Let’s start with the most obvious perk: it’s 100% free. No daily permits, no equipment fees, no “donations” required. I’ve paid upwards of $20 for a day at other Nantong spots, so saving that cash to spend on bait or snacks felt like a bonus. Just show up, set up your rod, and start fishing—no paperwork, no questions asked.

2. Size & Depth: Perfect for All Anglers

The river is massive—way bigger than the small ponds I’m used to. The average depth is around 2 meters (about 6.5 feet), which is ideal because it means you don’t have to worry about your line getting tangled in shallow weeds or mud. I used a medium-action rod with a 10-pound test line, and it handled the water perfectly. Even beginners can feel confident here; the depth is consistent, so you won’t have to constantly adjust your setup.

3. Fish Species & Bait Tips

I didn’t know what to expect in terms of catch, but I was pleasantly surprised. Local anglers told me the river has common carp, crucian carp, and even some catfish. I stuck to corn as bait (a local favorite) and landed three decent-sized crucian carp by mid-morning. Pro tip: If you’re targeting carp, try sweet corn or boilies—several anglers near me were using those and having luck too.

4. Environment & Amenities (Or Lack Thereof, But It’s Okay)

The area is clean and surrounded by trees, so there’s plenty of shade to beat the Jiangsu heat. I brought a folding chair and set up under a willow tree—total bliss. There are no formal restrooms or food stalls, but there’s a small convenience store about 5 minutes’ drive away where you can grab water, snacks, or extra bait. Just make sure to pack out your trash (I saw a few anglers leave bottles, which is a bummer—let’s keep this spot nice for everyone!)

My Full Day at Qiu Hu Central River: A Play-by-Play

I arrived at 7 AM, and the river was already busy but not crowded. There were about 15 anglers spread out along the bank, so I had plenty of space to set up without feeling cramped. The water was calm, and the air smelled like fresh grass—way better than the city’s exhaust fumes.

By 8:30 AM, I had my first bite. It was a small crucian carp, but it got me excited. I reeled it in quickly, took a photo, and released it back (I’m not big on keeping small fish). Over the next few hours, I landed two more crucian carp and a small catfish that put up a fun fight. I took a break around 11 AM to eat a sandwich and chat with a local angler named Li, who’s been fishing here for 10 years. He told me the river is stocked occasionally by the local government, which explains why the catch is so consistent.

I left around 3 PM, tired but happy. My tackle box was a little messy, but I had a great story to tell—and that’s what fishing is all about, right? Not just the catch, but the time spent outdoors.