My Unforgettable Day at Xiaoyao Tianxia Fishing Park
As someone who’s spent years chasing the perfect fishing spot across Henan, I thought I’d seen it all—until I stumbled on Xiaoyao Tianxia Fishing Park in Nanyang. This hidden gem checked every box on my fishing bucket list, and I’m already planning my next trip back. Let me break down why this spot should be your next fishing destination.
Location & Accessibility
Nestled just 600 meters north of Jianglaixing Baby Kindergarten in Chengwa Village, Raoliang Town, Sheqi County, this park is surprisingly easy to reach, even if you’re driving from downtown Nanyang. The roads are well-paved, so you won’t have to navigate bumpy dirt paths with your fishing gear in tow. I pulled up in my SUV without any trouble, and there was plenty of space to park right near the water’s edge—no trekking half a mile with heavy rods and coolers.
Facilities & Layout
Don’t let the “small-town spot” vibe fool you; Xiaoyao Tianxia Fishing Park is set up for serious anglers and casual fishers alike. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Spacious Fishing Spots: With 60 dedicated fishing positions spread across the 3.1-acre pond, you’ll never feel crowded. I picked a spot near the west bank, and I had plenty of room to cast without worrying about tangling lines with the angler next to me.
- Consistent Water Depth: The entire pond averages 1.7 meters deep, which is perfect for targeting a variety of freshwater species. I noticed the water was clear enough to spot fish near the bottom, a huge plus for figuring out where to drop my bait.
- Scenic Surroundings: The park is surrounded by lush greenery, so you’re not just fishing—you’re soaking up fresh air and quiet countryside views. I even spotted a few local birds darting across the water, which made the whole experience feel way more peaceful than fishing at a busy city pond.
Pricing & Value
One of the biggest surprises was how affordable this spot is. Rates range from 60 to 100 yuan for a 5 to 6-hour session, depending on the day and season. When you compare that to other paid fishing spots in Henan, this is a steal—especially considering the well-maintained facilities and the number of fish in the pond. I spent 80 yuan for a 6-hour trip, and I caught enough carp and crucian carp to feed my family for two nights. That’s unbeatable value.
My Fishing Experience
I arrived at 7 a.m., right as the sun was coming up, and the pond was already buzzing with a handful of regulars. A few of the local anglers gave me tips on which baits worked best (live worms were a hit that day) and pointed me to a spot where big carp were known to gather. Within 20 minutes of casting my line, I felt a solid tug—before I knew it, I was reeling in a 2-kilogram carp. For the next five hours, I had steady bites, and even when the sun got high, the trees around the pond provided enough shade to stay cool.
What impressed me most was how clean the park was. There were trash cans every few meters, and the staff did a great job of keeping the fishing spots free of debris. No stepping over old bait containers or tangled lines here—every corner felt well-cared-for.
Pro Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Arrive early (before 8 a.m.) to claim the best fishing spots, especially on weekends.
- Bring live bait or prepared carp bait—local fish here seem to prefer natural options.
- Pack a folding chair and a small cooler; there are no rental facilities on-site, but the space to set up is plenty.
If you’re tired of overcrowded, overpriced fishing spots in Nanyang, do yourself a favor and give Xiaoyao Tianxia Fishing Park a try. I left with a cooler full of fish, a sunburn on my nose, and a pocket full of new fishing tips from the local regulars. Trust me, this is the kind of spot that makes you fall in love with fishing all over again. I’m already texting my fishing crew to plan a return trip next weekend—see you there!
