Fishing Union Lake

AKA: Union Lake Wildlife Management Area

Most Popular Fish
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Union Lake Fishing Video
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Union Lake, NJ

Popular Fish Species Union Lake, NJ

Largemouth Bass

Fishing Union Lake for largemouth bass is currently very popular. The lake is one of the top bass lakes in the state, and the fishing has been getting better each year. Big bass are thriving in Union Lake due to excellent fisheries management by the NJDEP, New Jersey Fish and Wildlife, plus plenty of cover for both baitfish and bass. When the bite is good, bass are typically shallow and aggressive. If you find them shallow and they are not tempted to bite, slow down and use smaller, lighter baits. Fishing for largemouth bass is good virtually any time they are shallow - in spring, mornings in summer, and during warm Fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, big worms, jigs and spoons are three good weapons. In winter, spend your time fishing Union Lake on deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time. Smallmouth bass and spotted bass also reside here in good numbers.

Black Crappie

Black crappie reside in good numbers throughout Union Lake, and they are averaging a very good size. Crappie fishing is great and they are often running in sizeable schools. Live bait and small jigs are the preferred method for crappie here. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate brush and vegetation. Using a fish finder can help locate schools of crappie, which tend to stack vertically around cover. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels in deeper water. White crappie, in smaller numbers, also make this lake their home. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing is often a great way to catch a nice bunch of crappie.

Yellow Perch

Union Lake continues to have a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake as well. Fishing for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line. They make for an excellent fish fry, are a food source for many of the larger predator fish in the lake, and they are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, white perch, yellow perch and chain pickerel at Union Lake in New Jersey.

Considered one of the top bass fishing lakes in the area, Union Lake is a 900-acre lake in the south-central part of the state. In addition to bass, crappie, sunfish, catfish, perch and pickerel also reside here in good numbers.

Union Lake, located in southern New Jersey, is a popular destination for anglers seeking a peaceful and productive fishing experience. The lake offers a variety of fish species and recreational opportunities, making it a favorite among local anglers.

One of the popular fish species found in Union Lake is largemouth bass. The lake's structure, including submerged vegetation, fallen trees, and rocky areas, provides excellent habitat for bass, making it an ideal spot for bass anglers. Anglers can enjoy the thrill of catching both quantity and quality-sized largemouth bass in Union Lake.

In addition to largemouth bass, Union Lake is also home to other popular sportfish such as crappie, bluegill, sunfish, catfish, and pickerel. These species provide anglers with additional opportunities to enjoy a varied and rewarding fishing experience. Anglers can target crappie and sunfish around submerged structures and weed beds, while catfish and pickerel can be found in deeper sections of the lake.

Anglers visiting Union Lake should familiarize themselves with the fishing regulations and license requirements set by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to ensure compliance with state guidelines.

Overall, Union Lake offers a serene fishing experience with its diverse fishery and scenic setting. Whether you're targeting largemouth bass, exploring the lake by boat, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings, Union Lake provides anglers with a memorable and enjoyable fishing adventure in southern New Jersey.

Anglers can check out about 10 miles of shoreline and the deeper regions of the lake which only reach 27 feet. Favored fish species in Union Lake are largemouth bass and black crappie. The Union Lake boat ramp, in the Union Lake Wildlife Management Area, offers boat launching for boats with up to 10 horsepower motors. This boat-motor restriction reduces the fishing pressure, which improves the success of those who wish to wet a line here. Adventurous anglers who don't mind a bit of walking can find areas for fishing from the bank.

Primary fish species residing in Union Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Union Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Boating is permitted on Union Lake, allowing anglers to access different fishing spots and explore the lake's scenic beauty. Anglers can bring their own boats or rent them from nearby marinas. The lake allows both motorized and non-motorized boats, providing flexibility and options for anglers to enjoy their fishing experience.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Union Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off Carmel Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Fishing Guides On Union Lake

New Jersey Bass Fishing Tours - bass

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Union Lake Fishing Video

Fishing License

Click here for a New Jersey Fishing License.

While camping is not available directly on Union Lake, there are nearby campgrounds and lodging options that provide convenient access to the lake. These facilities offer amenities such as campsites, picnic areas, and hiking trails, allowing anglers to extend their fishing trips and enjoy the natural surroundings.