IN THIS POST
– Head Balloki
– Head Marala
– Siphon Fishing Point
– Qadirabad Barrage
– Panjnad
– Types of Fish Found in Punjab
– Best Weather for Fishing
Fishing is considered a classic hobby. It can help improve your hand-to-eye coordination, enhance your motor skills, teach patience and most importantly, encourage you to relax and only focus on the catch. Owing to a large number of rivers, barrages and small dams in the Punjab, fishing is quite a popular pastime in the province. In fact, there are quite a few fishing spots in Punjab that are perfect for both solo and family day trips.
To help you find the best fishing spots in Punjab, we have put together a list of popular places where you can relax as well as catch some fish.
Most Popular Fishing Spots in Punjab
Here is a list of fishing spots in Punjab that you must know about:
Head Balloki
Located about 65 kilometres from Lahore, Head Balloki is a barrage constructed on River Ravi. It is close to the town of Bhai Peru.
Head Balloki is undoubtedly one of the most popular fishing spots in Punjab. It is visited by families from all over the region in both the summer and winter months. The Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP) has also constructed a beautiful park at the site to facilitate the visitors.
Rana Luxury Resort and Safari Park, one of the top day trip destinations near Lahore, is also located near Head Balloki, also known as Balloki Headwork. This sprawling resort draws a large number of guests throughout the year. You can find out more about Rana Luxury Resort and Safari Park in our detailed guide exploring the activities and facilities offered at this picturesque getaway.
Head Marala
Head Marala or Marala Headwork is a great place for those who want to go fishing in River Chenab. It is situated at a distance of about 25 kilometer from the city of Sialkot. It also serves as a popular picnic spot, a wildlife sanctuary and unprotected wetlands. Moreover, Marala Head Works is one of the largest hydro-engineering projects in Pakistan. It is used to control water flow in the River Chenab and avoid flooding.
Fishing in Head Marala is a famous attraction for those who live in Sialkot and nearby areas. Hundreds visit this site during the weekends to not only to catch a fish but to enjoy the beautiful view of the river. Like the other renowned spots for fishing in Pakistan, Head Marala also provides its visitors with boating and other facilities.
Siphon Point
For those looking for fishing spots near Lahore, Siphon might be one of the best options. It is located at River Ravi at the point where it crosses the BRB Canal near the Wagah border in the City of Lights. This popular place to go fishing in Punjab can be easily accessed through GT Road.
Owing to its scenic location and pleasant environment, Siphon Point is also a renowned picnic spot among families. You can also go boating in the river or just sit at the bank and enjoy the beautiful view of River Ravi.
Qadirabad Barrage
Want to go fishing in River Chenab? You should consider planning a trip to Qadirabad Barrage, also called one of the best angling spots in Punjab. Constructed as a major engineering component of the Indus Basin project in 1967, this barrage is located in Hafizabad District of Gujranwala Division. It is a popular spot for family picnics in the vicinity of Hafizabad and is particularly famous among adventure-seekers.
In 2018, the Government of Punjab reportedly approved a rehabilitation project to transform the Qadirabad Barrage into one of the best picnic and angling spots in Punjab.
Panjnad
The Panjnad area is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Punjab. It is a mostly agricultural area located at the end of Bahawalpur at the confluence of five rivers in Punjab. The Panjnad Headworks is located close to where the Rivers Sutlej and Chenab merge into each other.
This picturesque site is not only one of the most popular fishing spots in Punjab but also serves as a picnic point among locals and tourists alike. The Panjnad Headworks is particularly famous for its freshwater fish market, where fish is grilled over charcoal and served to the guests as they enjoy the mesmerizing view of the water from the riverbank. The sprawling area is usually filled with anglers, both professionals and those who think of it as a leisure activity.
Types of Freshwater Fish Found in Punjab
These are some of the most common types of fish found in Punjab as per the Forest, Wildlife and Fisheries Department.
- Rahu
- Mori
- Mullee
- Masheer
- Singhari
- Silver Carp
- Thaila
- Masheer
- Gulfam
- Khagga
- Kalbans
- Soul
Best Weather for Fishing in Punjab
Fishing in Punjab remains a popular sport throughout the year. However, spots like Head Marala and Siphon Point draw larger crowds during the winter months, as the pleasant weather makes the entire activity all the more enjoyable. On the other hand, you will easily find groups of fishermen sitting alongside rivers Ravi and Chenab, holding their fishing rods and waiting patiently for a catch during the summer as well.
That brings an end to our guide on the best fishing spots in Punjab. Let us know your thoughts and comments by dropping an email at blog@zameen.com.
Meanwhile, the residents of the City of Lights can check out our guide on the top fishing spots in Karachi.
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