Pond Fishing at Barrett Farm Ponds — Bunn, North Carolina
A Family-Friendly Farm Fishing Tradition
Barrett Farm Ponds in Bunn, NC is true country fishing at its best — peaceful, natural, and rooted in local history. The Barrett family has owned and cared for this land since 1908, and the property still carries that same quiet, rural charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back to simpler times. Just minutes from town, yet surrounded by farm fields and open sky, this place is perfect for families, casual anglers, and anyone who wants a laid-back day outdoors.
What Makes the Fishing Special
The farm features two fully stocked ponds — a 1-acre pond and a 5-acre pond — each carefully managed and loaded with bass, catfish, bream, bluegill, and crappie. Every now and then, you might even hook into a carp, adding a fun surprise to the mix. Dragonflies glide above the water, turtles sun themselves along the edges, and other wildlife wanders through, making the setting feel alive and vibrant.
Fishing here is relaxed and flexible. The landowner keeps the banks trimmed and maintained, but intentionally leaves some spots more open and others more tucked away among trees — so whether you prefer shade, sun, privacy, or openness, there’s a spot that fits your style. Shoreline access is excellent, and the gentle slope into the larger pond makes it a favorite for families with kids learning to fish.
Boaters will appreciate that any boat without a gas motor is welcome — jon boats, kayaks, canoes, float rigs — all are permitted on the water. The ponds reach depths of up to 20 feet, so life jackets are recommended, especially for younger anglers.
Operating Season & Hours
Barrett Farm Ponds offers fishing year-round, from sunup to sundown, making it easy to plan a morning on the water or a relaxed afternoon cast. Because this is a working farm, the ponds are occasionally used for irrigation. When that happens, the landowner will let you know if there are any irrigation pipes or equipment to keep an eye on — nothing complicated, just neighborly communication.
Prices for Fishing
Fishing access is available through OutdoorAccess permits, with multiple options depending on how long you’d like to enjoy the ponds.
Here’s what’s currently offered:
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Daily Permit – $15 per person
Access from sunup to sundown. -
60-Day Permits
Available for individuals and families (custom family sizes available — just reach out!).
Because the ponds are private, no North Carolina fishing license is required, which makes it especially convenient for families, beginners, and out-of-state visitors.
How to Book Fishing
Booking is easy and handled through OutdoorAccess:
- Visit the Barrett Farm Ponds listing
- Choose your date or permit type
- Purchase your access pass
- Head out to the ponds and enjoy your day
OutdoorAccess also provides rules, maps, and directions so you know exactly what to expect.
Tips & What You Need to Know Before Visiting
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This is a primitive-style fishing spot — no bathrooms with running water, but town is less than a mile away.
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Plenty of trees offer privacy if needed (just pick one that fits your size, as they jokingly say).
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A picnic table sits beside the large pond for anyone to use.
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Grills are allowed with advance notice — but no ground fires.
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Bring your own fishing gear, tackle, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water.
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The landowner keeps the property clean and well-maintained — help keep it that way by respecting the grounds.
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Their Facebook page is packed with photos that give you a great sense of the place:
https://www.facebook.com/barrettfarmponds
With peaceful ponds, healthy fish, and a warm, country atmosphere, Barrett Farm Ponds is one of the most genuine farm-fishing experiences you’ll find in central North Carolina — and a perfect spot to make outdoor memories with family and friends.
BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE
Click the link to visit the official website.
VISIT LOCATION PAGE
Click the link to visit the location page for this activity and learn all about the location.
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