Yangshuo’s Best Fishing Spots for Golden Week Anglers

The limestone karsts of Yangshuo rise from the earth like ancient, moss-covered spines, a silent audience to the gentle flow of the Li River. For most visitors, this is a landscape for photography, for biking through rice paddies, or for watching the cormorant fishermen perform their age-old dance under the glow of lantern light. But for a select few—those who understand the quiet magic of a taut line and a drifting lure—Yangshuo is one of China’s most breathtakingly beautiful fishing destinations. And during the National Day holiday, known as Golden Week, the region takes on a special energy. The autumn air is crisp, the summer crowds have slightly thinned, and the fish are actively feeding before the cooler months. This is the perfect time to cast a line into these legendary waters.

This isn't just about catching fish; it's about the experience. It's about watching the sunrise paint the peaks in hues of gold and orange while your float bobs gently in a secluded eddy. It's about the fusion of a beloved hobby with one of the world's most iconic travel destinations. So, pack your gear, secure your China tourist visa (or ensure your visa-free transit is in order), and get ready to explore the aquatic secrets of Guangxi. Here is your guide to becoming a Golden Week angler in Yangshuo.

Why Fish in Yangshuo During Golden Week?

Golden Week, spanning the first week of October, is one of China's major travel periods. While the thought of navigating popular tourist spots might seem daunting, the angler has a unique advantage.

The Perfect Autumn Conditions

By October, the intense humidity and heat of the Guilin summer have given way to mild, pleasant temperatures. The water levels in the rivers are generally stable, and the clarity is excellent. For fish, this is a prime feeding time. Species like carp, grass carp, and the elusive Mandarin Fish are fattening up, making them more likely to investigate a well-presented bait. The weather is simply ideal for spending long, peaceful hours on the riverbank.

A Different Perspective on a Famous Landscape

While thousands of tourists jostle for space on West Street or cram onto bamboo rafts, you can find solitude just a few hundred meters away. Fishing allows you to engage with the landscape in a profound and silent way. You become part of the scenery, not just an observer of it. The iconic view of the karsts from your fishing spot is one that few tourists ever get to truly absorb and appreciate.

Essential Gear and Local Know-How

Before we dive into the specific spots, a word on preparation. You don’t need to bring an entire tackle shop with you, but being prepared will maximize your success and enjoyment.

Tackle and Bait

A versatile medium-action spinning rod and reel combo is perfect for the varied conditions in Yangshuo. You’ll want a line that can handle both smaller fish and the occasional surprise larger specimen. A selection of hooks, weights, floats, and a few simple lures like small spinners or soft plastics will cover most situations.

When it comes to bait, the local approach is often the most effective. Visit a local tackle shop (you'll find small ones in town) and ask for "miàn tuán" (dough balls) or live bait like earthworms. The locals have been perfecting their bait recipes for generations, and it’s what the fish are accustomed to eating.

Fishing Licenses and Regulations

This is a crucial point for international visitors. Fishing regulations in China can be complex and are not always widely publicized in English. In many public areas, especially those frequented by tourist boats, fishing might be restricted or require a permit. Your best strategy is twofold: first, always observe if locals are fishing in an area. If they are, it's generally a good sign. Second, when in doubt, ask your hotel or a local guide. Many guesthouses can connect you with a guide who not only knows the best spots but also understands the local rules, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The Top Fishing Locations in and Around Yangshuo

Here are some of the most productive and scenic spots to wet a line during your Golden Week adventure.

The Li River: The Iconic Stretch

The mother river of Guilin is, unsurprisingly, the most famous fishing ground. However, you need to be strategic.

• Spot 1: Upstream from Yangshuo Town. Instead of fishing right in the town center, head north or south along the riverbank. Find a quieter bend away from the main boat traffic. The water here is deep and clear, holding good populations of carp and Mandarin Fish. The key is patience, as the boat wakes can temporarily disrupt the fishing. Early morning, before the tourist boats start their engines, is the golden hour.
• What you might catch: Common Carp, Grass Carp, Mandarin Fish (a prized catch known for its distinctive markings).

The Yulong River: A Serene Alternative

The Yulong River is the Li River's quieter, more pastoral cousin. Famous for its bamboo rafting, it also offers fantastic fishing opportunities. The current is gentler, and the surroundings are pure picture-postcard China.

• Spot 2: The Jiu Xian Valley Area. Take a bike or an electric scooter and explore the paths along the Yulong River. You will find countless access points. Look for spots where the river widens into deeper pools, especially near the old stone bridges. These areas provide cover and slower water for fish to congregate.
• Spot 3: Downstream from the Dams. The small dams along the Yulong River create oxygen-rich pools below them, which are magnets for fish. Exercise caution on the wet stones, but the fishing in these turbulent waters can be excellent.
• What you might catch: Mud Carp, various species of Barbel, and plenty of smaller, eager fish that provide constant action.

Hidden Lagoons and Abandoned Quarries

Beyond the main rivers, the Yangshuo landscape is dotted with hidden bodies of water. These are often the domain of local anglers and can be incredibly productive.

• Spot 4: The Secret Lake near Fenglou. Venturing a bit further afield can yield huge rewards. There are several small lakes and flooded quarries in the countryside that hold large, unpressured fish. You may need to ask a local guide to take you to these spots, as they are not always marked on tourist maps. The stillness of these waters, surrounded by towering karsts, is an experience in itself.
• What you might catch: Larger, wiser Carp, and sometimes even Bighead Carp.

Beyond Fishing: The Golden Week Angler's Itinerary

Fishing is the centerpiece, but a successful Golden Week trip involves balancing your angling passion with the realities of travel during China's busiest season.

Navigating the Crowds

Golden Week is busy. Book your accommodation and transportation well in advance. To avoid the peak crowds on the river, plan your fishing for very early morning or late afternoon. The midday hours can be used for exploring other attractions, enjoying a long lunch, or simply relaxing.

Cultural Immersion and Cuisine

No trip to Yangshuo is complete without experiencing the local culture. After a day on the river, head to West Street to feel the vibrant energy. More importantly, you must try the local food. If you’re lucky enough to catch a fish, many of the local restaurants along the river will be happy to cook it for you, prepared in the local Beer Fish style—a classic Yangshuo dish where the fish is braised in local beer, tomatoes, and spices. It is an absolute culinary delight and the perfect way to celebrate a successful catch.

Combining Activities

Make it a family affair. While you fish for a few hours, your companions can enjoy a bamboo raft trip on the Yulong River, take a cooking class, or go biking through the stunning scenery. Yangshuo is an adventure playground, and fishing is just one of the many thrilling activities on offer.

The sound of the river, the silhouette of the karsts against the twilight sky, and the sudden, electric pull on your line—this is fishing in Yangshuo. It’s more than a hobby; it’s a form of meditation set against one of the planet's most dramatic backdrops. For the traveling angler, a Golden Week spent exploring these waters is not just a holiday; it's the stuff of lifelong memories. So tie your strongest knot, cast with hope, and get ready to write your own fishing story in the heart of a Chinese masterpiece.