My Unforgettable Day at Nanyang’s White River Fishing Spot
I’ve spent years chasing the perfect casual fishing spot around Henan, and last weekend, I struck gold at the White River fishing spot in Nanyang. As someone who hates overcrowded, overpriced commercial ponds, this free spot checked every box for me—and I’m already planning my return trip. Let me break down everything you need to know if you’re thinking of heading out there too.
Location & Accessibility
The spot is tucked away in Hangyun Village, Xinyang County, just 200 meters west of the Management Committee of the Shipping Bureau Family Compound along Binhe Road in Hanhua Subdistrict. Don’t let the specific address intimidate you—getting there is a breeze.
- There’s plenty of roadside parking within a 5-minute walk of the main fishing areas, so you won’t have to haul your gear far.
- The roads leading to the river are well-paved, even for smaller cars, so you don’t need a rugged off-road vehicle to reach it.
- It’s just a 20-minute drive from downtown Nanyang, making it ideal for a day trip or even a quick after-work fishing session.
What Makes This Spot Stand Out
First and foremost: it’s 100% free. No entry fees, no per-hour charges, no hidden costs—you just grab your gear and start fishing. That alone makes it a rare gem in a region where most developed fishing spots come with a price tag.
The river itself has an enormous surface area, so even on busy weekends, you won’t be elbow-to-elbow with other anglers. I set up my spot near a cluster of willow trees on the north bank, and I had a 50-meter stretch all to myself for most of the day.
The environment here is surprisingly peaceful too. The river is lined with lush greenery, and the only sounds you’ll hear are the rustle of leaves, the splash of fish, and the occasional call of birds. It’s the kind of place where you can forget about work stress and just focus on the thrill of the bite.
Top Tips for a Successful Trip
- Pack insect repellent: The tall grass along the banks can have a lot of mosquitoes, especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
- Bring a portable chair: The riverbank has some flat spots, but a foldable chair will make your day way more comfortable.
- Try live bait: I used worms I dug up from my garden and caught three different species of freshwater fish in just a few hours. Local anglers also swear by corn kernels for bigger catches.
- Respect the space: Since it’s a free public spot, make sure to pick up all your trash before leaving. Let’s keep this beautiful area clean for everyone to enjoy.
A Quick Note for New Anglers
If you’re new to fishing, don’t worry—this spot is perfect for beginners. The current is gentle, and the fish here are relatively easy to hook, so you won’t get discouraged if you’re still learning the ropes. I even saw a few kids with their parents reeling in small fish, and their excitement was contagious.
I left as the sun was setting, my cooler with a few fresh catches and my head full of quiet memories. If you’re in Nanyang and looking for a laid-back, no-cost way to spend a day, do yourself a favor and check out the White River fishing spot. I’d love to hear about your catches if you go—drop a comment if you’ve fished here before, or tag me in your photos when you do!
