My Unforgettable Day Fishing at Xiaoweizhuang Reservoir, Zhengzhou
Last Saturday, I grabbed my fishing rod, packed some snacks, and dragged my family along to check out Xiaoweizhuang Reservoir— a spot I’d heard whispers about as Zhengzhou’s hidden free fishing gem. Let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. From the moment we pulled up, the fresh air and quiet vibe made the 40-minute drive from downtown totally worth it.
Where Exactly Is Xiaoweizhuang Reservoir?
Finding it was easier than I thought! The reservoir sits just 100 meters north of Xiaoweizhuang Village, Caoxiang Town, Guancheng Hui District, Zhengzhou. If you’re driving, the GPS will lead you straight to the area— just keep an eye out for the small sign pointing to the parking spot on the east side of the reservoir.
What’s the Cost? (Spoiler: It’s Free to Fish!)
Here’s the best part: Xiaoweizhuang Reservoir is completely free to fish. No entry fees, no per-rod charges— nothing. The only small cost we had was parking: the east-side parking lot charges 10 yuan for the whole day. That’s a steal compared to other paid fishing spots in Zhengzhou where you might shell out 50+ yuan just to cast a line.
What’s the Fishing Experience Like?
The water was calm, and the surrounding trees provided perfect shade— no squinting under the harsh Zhengzhou sun here. I set up my rod near the north bank, and within 20 minutes, I felt a tug! I reeled in a small crucian carp, and my kiddo screamed with excitement. Over the next few hours, we caught a mix of crucian carp, grass carp, and even a tiny catfish— the fish population here is surprisingly diverse.
A quick tip: The reservoir encourages catch-and-release. We took a couple of small fish home for dinner, but most went back in the water. It’s important to keep this spot clean and sustainable so everyone can enjoy it later!
Is It Good for Families?
Absolutely! My wife spread out a picnic blanket on the grassy bank while I fished, and the kiddo ran around chasing butterflies (don’t worry, the bank is flat and safe for little ones). There are no loud crowds, just the sound of birds and water— perfect for a relaxing family day. We even brought a frisbee and played a quick game between casts.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive early on weekends to get a good fishing spot (we got there at 8 AM and had our pick).
- Bring sunblock, hats, and insect repellent— the shade is nice, but you’ll still get sun exposure.
- Pack snacks and water— there are no shops nearby, so come prepared.
- Don’t forget a trash bag! We took all our garbage with us to keep the reservoir clean.
By 4 PM, we were tired but happy. As we drove back, my kid kept talking about “the big fish” (even though it was tiny) and asking when we could go back. Xiaoweizhuang Reservoir isn’t just a fishing spot— it’s a place to slow down, bond with family, and enjoy Zhengzhou’s quiet natural beauty. If you’re a fishing fan or just need a break from the city, this is the spot to hit.
