Yangshuo Travel Map: Best Spots for Fishing

The limestone karsts of Yangshuo rise from the earth like ancient, moss-covered sentinels, a landscape so iconic it has defined the very image of Southern China for generations. Travelers flock here for cycling through emerald rice paddies, for bamboo rafting down serene rivers, and for rock climbing the dramatic peaks. But there is another, quieter pursuit that offers a uniquely profound connection to this magical place: fishing. Casting a line into the placid waters of the Li River or a hidden village stream is to engage with Yangshuo not as a spectator, but as a participant in its timeless rhythm. This travel map is not just about coordinates; it's an invitation to discover the soul of Yangshuo through the tranquil art of angling, weaving together prime fishing locations, local culture, and the essential travel experiences that surround them.

The Heart of the Scene: The Li River

No journey to Yangshuo is complete without encountering the Li River. It is the region's lifeblood, and for anglers, it presents a world-class fishing experience set against an unparalleled backdrop.

Yingping to Xingping Stretch

This section of the river is arguably the most famous, featured on the back of the 20 RMB note. While tourist boats and rafts frequent these waters, the early morning and late evening hours belong to the anglers. The water here is clear, with varying depths and structures that hold fish. Local fishermen often use traditional cormorants, a breathtaking sight as the birds dive for fish, though this is now largely a practice preserved for tourists. For the visiting angler, this area is excellent for targeting local species like the Grass Carp and Mandarin Fish. The key is to find an eddy away from the main boat traffic. The sight of your float bobbing in the shadow of the Nine-Horse Fresco Hill is an experience that transcends the catch itself.

Around Fuli Old Town

Just downstream from Yangshuo town, Fuli is a quieter, more authentic old town known as the "Town of Fans." The river here widens and slows, creating perfect conditions for bank fishing. You can set up on a pebbly shore with your gear, watching local life unfold as you wait for a bite. This is a fantastic spot for a full-day excursion. Combine a morning of fishing with exploring Fuli's ancient flagstone streets and perhaps commissioning a handmade painted fan as a unique souvenir. The fishing here is relaxed, productive, and deeply integrated into the local ambiance.

Tranquil Escape: The Yulong River

If the Li River is the grand stage, the Yulong River is its secluded, gentle cousin. Known for its bamboo rafting, the Yulong offers a more intimate and peaceful fishing environment.

Jiuxian Village Area

Venture away from the main docking points for rafts, and you'll find villages like Jiuxian where the river flows quietly through farmland. Here, you can access the riverbank easily. The water is generally shallower and calmer, making it an ideal location for light tackle and fly fishing. The target species might be smaller, but the setting is pure magic. You'll be surrounded by water buffalo grazing in the fields, with the sounds of the countryside providing your soundtrack. It’s a perfect spot for those who prioritize serenity over the size of their catch.

Bamboo Raft Fishing

While most bamboo rafts are used for tourism, it's sometimes possible to arrange a private raft with a local operator for a fishing trip. This mobile approach allows you to access stretches of the river completely inaccessible by foot. Drifting silently with the current, you can cast into promising-looking pools and undercuts along the riverbank. This is arguably the most authentic way to fish the Yulong, mirroring the methods that have been used here for centuries. Be sure to negotiate the price and duration clearly beforehand.

Hidden Gems: Off-the-Map Local Spots

The true secrets of Yangshuo's fishing scene lie away from the tourist arteries. Exploring these spots often requires a sense of adventure and a good local guide.

Village Irrigation Ponds and Streams

Scattered throughout the Yangshuo countryside are countless small ponds and streams, many of which are teeming with fish. These are often managed by local villagers and may contain a mix of wild and farmed species. It is absolutely crucial to seek permission before fishing in these waters. A smile, a friendly gesture, and sometimes a small fee can open the door to an incredible local experience. The fishing in these ponds is often very active, providing a fun and rewarding session.

The Hidden Reservoir

For those seeking larger, more challenging fish, the reservoirs in the hills surrounding Yangshuo are the answer. These bodies of water hold bigger Carp and other species. They are less pressured than the rivers and offer a wilder environment. Due to their often-remote locations and the need for specific local knowledge, hiring a guide is highly recommended for a reservoir trip. The journey there, often by scooter or local transport through stunning terrain, is an adventure in itself.

The Angler's Toolkit in Yangshuo

Preparing for a fishing trip in Yangshuo requires some specific knowledge, especially regarding gear and regulations.

Tackle and Techniques

The most common sight is local anglers using very simple tackle: a long, telescopic pole with a fixed line, a float, and a hook. This pole fishing method is incredibly effective for the local fish. As a visitor, you can bring your own spinning or fly rod. A light to medium-action spinning rod is versatile enough for most situations. Fly fishers can have success with small streamers and nymphs that imitate the local baitfish and invertebrates. Live bait like worms and grubs can be purchased in local markets or from villagers.

Rules of the River

Formal fishing licenses, as known in the West, are not typically required for recreational fishing in the rivers. However, this is a gray area, and respect is the ultimate currency. Always be mindful of private property. If a body of water looks like it might be part of a farm or is clearly maintained by a village, ask for permission. Furthermore, practice catch and release if you are not planning to eat your catch, or follow the local custom of keeping what you eat. This sustainable approach helps preserve the fishery for everyone.

Beyond the Rod: The Complete Yangshuo Experience

A fishing trip to Yangshuo is about more than just fishing. It's about immersing yourself in the landscape and culture.

Cycling the Countryside

The best way to access many of these fishing spots is by bicycle. Renting a bike for a day allows you the freedom to explore the maze of small paths that connect villages and riverbanks. You can pedal at your own pace, stopping whenever a promising stretch of water catches your eye. The famous route from Yangshuo town to the Yulong River bridge is a perfect starting point, offering countless opportunities for detours and discovery.

Staying in a Local Village

Forgo the hostels in Yangshuo town for a night or two and book a room in a guesthouse in a village like Jiuxian or Moon Hill. Waking up to the sound of roosters instead of traffic, you can be the first person on the river. The hosts are often a wealth of local knowledge and might even point you to their favorite fishing hole. The evening meals, cooked with fresh local ingredients, are a culinary highlight.

Culinary Catches: From River to Table

If you're lucky enough to land a fish, the ultimate experience is having it prepared for you. Many local restaurants, especially the smaller, family-run establishments in the villages, will be happy to cook your catch for a small fee. The Beer Fish, a local Yangshuo specialty where the fish is braised in local beer, tomatoes, and spices, is an absolute must-try. Tasting a fish you caught yourself, cooked in a quintessentially local style, is a memory that will last a lifetime.

The Yangshuo fishing map is not static; it is drawn anew with each cast into its reflective waters. It leads you to places of breathtaking beauty and moments of profound peace, connecting you to a way of life that has harmonized with this landscape for millennia. So pack your rod, a sense of adventure, and a respectful curiosity. The rivers are waiting.