New River
New River
- Boat Ramps
- 2
- Access Points
- 3
- Species
- 25
The New River is a scenic waterway flowing through eastern Tennessee, forming a major part of the Cumberland River system. This 55-mile river stretches from its headwaters in Anderson County to its confluence with the Clear Fork River, which together form the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. The waterway features diverse aquatic habitats including riffles, pools, and runs with varied substrate from sand and gravel to boulders and bedrock. The New River watershed encompasses parts of Scott, Campbell, and Anderson counties, providing abundant fishing opportunities in a picturesque Appalachian setting. Known for its smallmouth bass fishery, the river system supports over 230 native fish species, making it one of the most biodiverse river systems in the region.
Species & education
Learn what type of fish are at New River and what's needed to catch them.
Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on New 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 New 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.
Tennessee licenses and regulations
Tennessee 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.
Tennessee Fishing License
No Fishing License Needed If: You are under 13 years of age (resident or nonresident). A type 022 supplemental license is required for anglers targeting trout. State-wide creel limit 7 trout.
Tennessee 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.
Tennessee Stream Access Laws
On any river or stream that’s capable of floating a craft, the public has rights to passage, hunting and fishing. The question of streambed use on designated non-navigable rivers, however, is less clear, and probably not legal.
Take New 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.
Use the map without signal
Download the map around New River to use it offline when coverage drops.
Log your catches here
Keep a private fishing journal for New River to find where and when fish are biting for you.
Get the onWater Fish app
Free on iOS and Android
Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
See the best times to fish New River and check the forecast before you go.
NEW RIVER AT NEW RIVER, TN
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