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Tar River Reservoir

Boat Ramps
2
Access Points
2
Species
7

Tar River Reservoir is a scenic 1,800-acre impoundment located in northeastern North Carolina near Rocky Mount. Created in 1971, this reservoir offers approximately 30 miles of shoreline and has developed a reputation as an excellent fishery, particularly for crappie and largemouth bass. The lake's varied structure includes coves, creek channels, points, and extensive cover that creates ideal habitat for multiple fish species. With its relatively compact size compared to larger regional lakes, Tar River Reservoir provides anglers with manageable fishing waters that are somewhat protected from high winds, making it an attractive destination for both novice and experienced anglers.


Species & education

Learn what type of fish are at Tar River Reservoir and what's needed to catch them.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Tar River Reservoir. 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 Tar River Reservoir

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.

North Carolina licenses and regulations

Take Tar River Reservoir 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.

  • Use the map without signal

    Download the map around Tar River Reservoir to use it offline when coverage drops.

  • Log your catches here

    Keep a private fishing journal for Tar River Reservoir to find where and when fish are biting for you.

  • HD depth charts from Garmin

    Find drop offs, ledges, channels, points and shallow flats with Garmin depth charts in the app.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Tar River Reservoir and check the forecast before you go.

TAR RIVER BELOW DAM NEAR LANGLEY CROSSROADS, NC

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