Exploring Juyuan Fishing Club: A Hidden Gem in Zhumaidian
Last weekend, I decided to escape the city buzz and try my luck at a local fishing spot I’d heard about—Juyuan Fishing Club in Zhumaidian, Henan. As someone who’s fished at a handful of spots around the province, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this place ended up exceeding my hopes. Let me walk you through my day there, from the moment I arrived to the last cast before sunset.
Location & First Impressions
Juyuan Fishing Club sits right between Xiaohezhuang and Xiaowangzhuang in Xihong Township, Shangcai County, Zhumaidian. The drive from downtown Zhumaidian took about 40 minutes, and the roads were surprisingly smooth—no bumpy dirt paths to navigate, which was a huge plus for carrying my fishing gear. When I pulled up, the first thing I noticed was how quiet and peaceful it was; the only sounds were birds chirping and the gentle ripple of water. The spot is compact, covering around 3 mu (that’s roughly half an acre for those who don’t use Chinese units), but it’s laid out perfectly.
Facilities & Layout
The club has about 50 fishing spots spread along the pond’s edge, so even on a busy day, you won’t feel crowded. I picked a spot near the shade of a willow tree—smart move, since the sun got pretty warm around noon. Each spot had a flat, clean area to set up my rod and tackle box, and there was enough space to move around without disturbing the angler next to me. The pond itself looked well-maintained, with clear water that let me catch glimpses of fish darting below the surface. No overgrown weeds blocking the water, and the banks were tidy—small details that make a big difference for a comfortable day of fishing.
Cost & What’s Included
The daily fee here is 200 yuan, which I think is totally reasonable for the experience. Unlike some spots that nickel-and-dime you for extras, this fee covers full-day access from dawn to dusk. I didn’t have to pay extra for parking (there’s a small lot right by the entrance) or use of the basic facilities. For anglers who want to make a day of it, you can bring your own snacks and drinks—there’s even a small sheltered area if you want to sit and eat without leaving your spot. I packed a cooler with water and sandwiches, and it was easy to keep everything within reach.
My Fishing Day: The Good & The “Almost Great”
I arrived around 7 a.m., just as the sun was peeking over the trees. I set up my rod with a corn bait (a favorite for carp around here) and cast out. Within 15 minutes, I felt a light tug—my first bite! It turned out to be a small crucian carp, but it was a thrilling start. Over the next few hours, I caught three more crucian carp and a decent-sized common carp (probably around 2 kg). The fish here seem healthy and active, which made the day fun even when I wasn’t reeling something in. The only “oops” moment was when I forgot to bring a net—luckily, the club’s staff lent me one for free. They were friendly and checked in a few times to make sure everyone was doing okay, which added a nice personal touch.
Who This Spot Is Perfect For
Juyuan Fishing Club isn’t a competitive tournament spot, and that’s exactly why I loved it. It’s ideal for:
- Casual anglers who want a relaxing day away from the city
- Beginners (the pond’s calm water and accessible spots make it easy to learn)
- Families—there’s space for kids to play near the entrance (just make sure they stay away from the water edge)
- Anglers who prefer a quiet, low-key environment over crowded, noisy spots
A Few Tips Before You Go
To make your day at Juyuan Fishing Club even better, here are my quick tips:
– Arrive early (before 8 a.m.) to get your pick of the best spots, especially the shaded ones.
– Bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are non-negotiable on sunny days.
– Don’t forget a fishing net and a bucket to keep your catch (if you plan to take some home).
– If you’re new to the area, use a map app to search for “Juyuan Fishing Club, Xihong Township” — the location is easy to find once you have the coordinates.
By the time I packed up around 5 p.m., my arms were a little sore, but I had a big smile on my face. Juyuan Fishing Club isn’t the biggest or fanciest spot in Zhumaidian, but it’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back. I already told my fishing buddy about it, and we’re planning a return trip next month. If you’re in Zhumaidian and need a chill day of fishing, this is the spot to hit.