The Nieuwe Maas is a distributary of the Rhine River flowing westward through the heart of Rotterdam in the Dutch province of South Holland. Stretching approximately 24 kilometres (15 miles), it originates at the confluence of the Noord and Lek rivers near Ridderkerk and flows west until it meets the Oude Maas near Vlaardingen, forming the Scheur, which continues as the Nieuwe Waterweg toward the North Sea. This working waterway passes through one of the most densely populated and industrialized regions in the Netherlands, lined with harbours and industrial facilities along its banks. Despite its urban character, the Nieuwe Maas supports a surprisingly diverse fishery, drawing anglers who target a range of species in its tidal, deep-water environment.