Every Boat Ramp on Neuse River

About Neuse River

The Neuse River is one of North Carolina's longest rivers, flowing approximately 275 miles from its headwaters near Durham through the Piedmont and Coastal Plain before widening dramatically into a broad estuary near New Bern and emptying into Pamlico Sound. This transition from narrow freshwater river to one of the widest river estuaries in the country creates a remarkably diverse fishery that attracts both freshwater and saltwater anglers.

In the upper and middle reaches near Goldsboro and Kinston, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish are the primary game fish, found around fallen timber, undercut banks, and deep river bends. As the river widens below Kinston, striped bass become a major target, especially during spring spawning runs. Near New Bern, where the river opens to nearly 6 miles wide, the fishery transitions to saltwater species including red drum, flounder, and speckled trout that move upriver from Pamlico Sound on tidal flows.

New Bern, North Carolina's colonial capital and birthplace of Pepsi-Cola, serves as the primary hub for fishing the lower Neuse River estuary. Multiple public boat ramps, marinas, and charter services provide access from Goldsboro to the river's mouth. The Neuse River Recreation Area and numerous waterfront parks offer bank fishing opportunities. The river's dual freshwater-saltwater character makes it one of the most versatile fishing destinations in eastern North Carolina.

Nearest towns: New Bern, Kinston, Goldsboro