South Branch Raritan River

Boat Ramps: 0
Access Points: 6
Species: 24

The South Branch of the Raritan River is one of New Jersey's premier trout streams, flowing approximately 50 miles from its source at Budd Lake to its confluence with the Raritan River at the town of South Branch. This freestone stream offers varied water types from pocket water in its upper sections to classic runs, riffles, and pools downstream. Located just an hour from New York City, the South Branch provides exceptional fishing opportunities while maintaining a feeling of remoteness in sections like Ken Lockwood Gorge. The river is known for its outstanding hatches that support both wild and stocked trout, making it a favorite destination for anglers throughout most of the year.

New Jersey licenses and regulations4 to check before you go

Species & education

Learn what type of fish are at South Branch Raritan River and what's needed to catch them.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on South Branch Raritan River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Know where you can legally fish on South Branch Raritan River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

New Jersey licenses and regulations

New Jersey Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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New Jersey Fishing License

Anyone age 16 and older must have a valid license (see Exceptions) to fish the fresh waters of New Jersey with handline, rod and line, or longbow and arrow. This includes privately owned lakes and other waters. New Jersey does not require a general saltwater fishing license but there are a limited number of saltwater licenses and permits required. Additionally, most saltwater anglers need to register with the free New Jersey Saltwater Recreational Registry Program.

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New Jersey Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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New Jersey Stream Access Laws

There are two types of streams are boatable in New Jersey: tidal streams and non-tidal, navigable streams. The public can use any stream influenced by the tide, unless prohibited by law in the particular stretch of stream. Navigable streams may be boated, whether or not they are influenced by the tide. This includes streams capable of being used for transporting valuable commerce, such as commercial logs.

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Take South Branch Raritan River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

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Download the map around South Branch Raritan River to use it offline when coverage drops.
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Keep a private fishing journal for South Branch Raritan River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish South Branch Raritan River and check the forecast before you go.