Water quality in Poyang Lake wetland varies from fair to very poor, with TN and TP being the main pollutants. Land use types within 1 km buffer zones have the strongest impact on water quality, with built-up land and farmland positively affecting TN and TP levels. Rivers within 200 m buffer zones contribute nitrogen and phosphorus to the lake. Wetlands are a source of pollutants compared to the main lake area. Controlling land use patterns within small spatial scales is crucial for protecting water resources in Poyang Lake wetland.