What Union Point Park Offers

Union Point Park sits on the Neuse River in downtown New Bern and gives you direct access to one of the region's most consistent largemouth bass fisheries. The park has a concrete boat ramp, a small pier, and grassy banks where you can fish from shore. It's a working waterfront—you'll see commercial boats and kayakers alongside anglers—but that mix of activity actually concentrates fish in predictable spots.

The park itself is free to use, open dawn to dusk, and sits at the confluence where the Neuse widens after flowing through the city. That transition zone holds both largemouth bass and channel catfish year-round, with seasonal patterns that shift based on water temperature and river flow.

Key Takeaways

  • Union Point Park has a public boat ramp and shore access on the Neuse River, located at the downtown waterfront near the New Bern waterfront district.
  • Largemouth bass and channel catfish are the primary species; bass move shallow in spring and fall, while catfish bite consistently in deeper holes year-round.
  • The pier and grassy banks allow shore fishing without a boat, though the ramp makes it easy to launch a small skiff or kayak to reach deeper water.
  • Parking is limited but available; arrive early on weekends, especially during spring and fall when bass activity peaks.
  • The park sits in a working waterfront zone, so expect river traffic and plan your fishing around commercial boat schedules.

Seasonal Patterns and What Bites When

Spring (March through May) is when largemouth bass move into shallow water to spawn. Fish the grassy banks and any fallen timber along the shoreline early in the morning. Bass will hit topwater lures and soft plastics in 3 to 8 feet of water. The water is warming, and the fish are aggressive.

Summer (June through August) pushes bass deeper and into shade. The pier becomes more productive than the banks because it gives you access to deeper water and the shade of the structure itself. Channel catfish bite better in summer heat—fish cut shad or chicken liver on the bottom in the deeper holes, especially at dusk and after dark.

Fall (September through November) brings another shallow-water bite as bass chase baitfish along the banks before winter. This is often the most reliable time to fish from shore. Water temperatures drop, and bass feed aggressively in preparation for winter.

Winter (December through February) slows the action but doesn't stop it. Bass hold in the deepest holes near the pier and the main channel. Catfish remain active, though they bite less frequently. If you fish winter, focus on the deeper water and fish slower presentations.

How to Fish the Pier and Banks

The concrete pier extends into the river and gives you access to water 8 to 12 feet deep. This is your best bet for consistent bass, especially in summer and winter. Fish the pilings with soft plastics rigged Texas-style or on a jighead. The pilings create current breaks and shade that bass use as ambush points.

The grassy banks to the left of the ramp are shallow and productive in spring and fall. Wade if the water level allows, or cast from shore. Largemouth bass will hunt along the grass line, especially in low-light conditions. A 5- to 7-foot medium-power rod with 10- to 15-pound braid works well for both the pier and the banks.

For catfish, fish the bottom with a simple three-way rig or a slip sinker setup. Use fresh cut shad, chicken liver, or stink bait. The deeper holes near the pier and along the main channel hold catfish throughout the year. Fish at dawn, dusk, or after dark for the best results.

Boat Ramp Details and Launch Conditions

The concrete ramp at Union Point Park is single-lane and can get crowded on weekends, especially during spring and fall. The ramp is well-maintained but can be slippery when wet or covered in algae. Wear shoes with good grip, and take your time backing down.

Water depth at the ramp varies with river flow and tidal influence. The Neuse is tidal this far upstream, so water level can change 2 to 3 feet between high and low tide. Check the tide before you launch—low tide can make the ramp shallower, and high tide can make it easier to load a boat. Parking is limited to a small lot; arrive early on weekends or fish on weekdays if you can.

The ramp is suitable for small boats, kayaks, and canoes. If you're launching a larger boat, call ahead to the New Bern Parks and Recreation Department to confirm current conditions. The river is navigable upstream and downstream from the park, giving you options to explore other sections of the Neuse.

What Gear to Bring

For largemouth bass, bring a 5- to 7-foot medium-power spinning rod with 10- to 15-pound braid or monofilament. Soft plastics (4 to 6 inches), topwater lures, and small crankbaits all work. A tackle box with a variety of colors—black, green pumpkin, and white—covers most conditions.

For catfish, a heavier rod (6 to 7 feet, medium-heavy power) with 15- to 20-pound line is better. Bring a three-way rig or slip sinker setup, fresh cut bait, and a headlamp if you plan to fish after dark. A net is useful for landing larger catfish.

Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. The park has no shade except the pier, and the sun reflects off the water. A small cooler keeps your catch fresh if you plan to keep fish for dinner.

Parking, Facilities, and Rules

Union Point Park has a small parking lot with space for roughly 10 to 15 vehicles. On busy weekends, it fills up quickly. There are no restrooms at the park itself, but the New Bern waterfront district is a short walk away and has public facilities.

The park is open dawn to dusk. No overnight camping or parking is allowed. Fishing is permitted year-round, but check North Carolina fishing regulations for current season dates and size/creel limits. A North Carolina fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older.

The park is a working waterfront, so commercial boats and other traffic are common. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially if you're wading or launching a boat. Keep your gear organized and don't leave valuables in your vehicle.

Nearby Water and Alternative Access

If Union Point Park is crowded or you want to explore other sections of the Neuse, several other access points are within 10 to 15 minutes of downtown New Bern. Flanagan Park, also in New Bern, offers another boat ramp and shore access upstream. The Neuse River Trail provides walking and biking access along the riverbank if you want to scout new fishing spots without launching a boat.

Downstream from New Bern, the Neuse widens into a larger estuary with different species and conditions. If you're interested in saltwater fishing or exploring brackish water, that's worth a separate trip. For now, Union Point Park is your best bet for consistent freshwater bass and catfish in the New Bern area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boat to fish Union Point Park?

No. The pier and grassy banks allow you to fish from shore without a boat. You'll have access to productive water and can catch both bass and catfish. A boat gives you more range and access to deeper holes, but it's not required.

What's the best time of day to fish here?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon through dusk are most productive for largemouth bass. Catfish bite throughout the day but are more active at dusk and after dark. Overcast days are often better than bright, sunny days.

Can I keep fish I catch at Union Point Park?

Yes, if they meet North Carolina size and creel limits. Largemouth bass have a 12-inch minimum size and a 5-fish daily limit. Channel catfish have no size limit and no creel limit. Check the current North Carolina fishing regulations before you fish, as rules can change.

Is there a fee to fish or launch a boat?

No. Union Point Park is free to use. There is no launch fee, parking fee, or fishing fee. You only need a valid North Carolina fishing license if you're 16 or older.

What should I do if the ramp is too crowded?

Fish from the pier or banks instead—you don't need a boat to catch fish here. If you want to launch another day, come early on a weekday or visit during off-season months (December through February) when fewer people are fishing.