Hello, everyone! Are you planning a unique outdoor adventure in Japan?

If you’re undecided about where to visit next, let me introduce you to a fantastic fishing spot that offers both the thrill of the catch and the freshness of stream-to-table dining. Welcome to the “Kigonotaki Nature Fishing Center” (木郷滝自然つりセンター) nestled in a picturesque mountain valley in Takamori Town, Kumamoto.

Why Kigonotaki Natural Fishing Center is a Must Visit

The highlight here is undoubtedly the convenience—it’s a place where you can arrive empty-handed and dive right into the fishing experience. Open from 8 AM, it’s perfect for both day-trippers from nearby areas and those spending a night at local ryokan or campsites around Mount Aso.

Another great feature is the vibrant natural streams stocked generously with yamame (Japanese cherry trout), iwana (Japanese char), and nijimasu (Rainbow trout). Unlike typical fishing ponds, the scale of fishing here feels more adventurous and authentic. Thanks to the abundant stocking, even beginners and children can enjoy easy catches.

Off to the Fishing Center, no gear needed!

This large signboard is your landmark.

In the parking area, a friendly cat welcomes you.

The premises are divided into two areas: a “Bait Fishing Area” for beginners and a “Fly Fishing Area” for advanced anglers.

First, you pay upfront at the reception. For 4,500 yen, enjoy 4 hours of unlimited fishing, including the rod rental. You can share the rod with your friends or family if you like. Bring a cooler box to take home whatever you catch!

In addition to the fee, a deposit of 500 yen for a fishing permit is required. Don’t forget to return the permit at the end to get your deposit back.

Now armed with a fishing rod and bucket, it’s time to hit the stream!

Soon after starting….. I got my first catch!

Caught a yamame (Japanese cherry trout)!

It’s true—they just keep biting. I tried it myself and yes, I caught one too!

A friendly veteran angler explained to me that the easiest spots to catch fish are around the cascades where the river flows.

In the end, in just over an hour my husband caught five, and I caught four, so we caught nine fish in total. It’s really fun when they bite like this.

You can enjoy your freshly caught fish right on the spot!

After a fulfilling fishing session, clean and prep your catch at the washing station.

Next, you can bring it to the kitchen and, for an extra charge, they’ll cook it in your preferred style—tempura, grilled with salt, or grilled with miso. My favorite is the crispy tempura yamame trout that you can eat from head to tail, served with a sweet and savory sauce. You can start your day fishing and eat your catch by lunch!

It’s a great activity for everyone, from kids to adults:

A fun way to create summer holidays memories for children.

A chance for dads to show off their fishing skills on a family trip…

Why not visit?

“Kigonotaki Natural Fishing Center” offers a joyful and tasty fishing experience. Tucked away in the mountains of Aso, it’s truly a hidden gem!

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The above was translated and adapted from an article on our Japanese sister website ALT Kumamoto, titled “手ぶらで行こう！渓流で釣った魚がその場で食べられちゃう釣りスポット” For the original content, visit https://akumamoto.jp/archives/14801.

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