New River
West Virginia · river · approx 37.80, -80.90
Located in West Virginia, New River is classified as a river with approximate coordinates 37.800, -80.900. Smallmouth. Anglers target Smallmouth Bass here, and the links below open the regulations, stocking, and license details you need for a compliant trip.
About this water
Smallmouth.
Fishing characteristics
As a river, New River is shaped by current, clarity, and flow. Species use seams, eddies, and slack water, and dam releases or rainfall can quickly change where fish hold.
Target species
- Smallmouth Bass — Smallmouth bass are hard-fighting bronze bass of clear rivers and rocky lakes, keen on currents and craws.
Access notes
River access at New River ranges from wade-in banks and bridges to boat ramps; check flow, private-property boundaries, and put-in and take-out points. Confirm current access, any required permits, and local closures with West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) before you travel.
Applicable regulations
West Virginia size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules apply to this water.
View West Virginia license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Waterbody-specific rules
No special waterbody-specific regulation is on file for New River. It is governed by the general West Virginia fishing regulations (statewide size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules). Always confirm with the state agency before fishing.
View West Virginia license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Stocking notes
Stocking totals for West Virginia are pending verification. See the West Virginia stocking profile →
More public waters in West Virginia
Plan beyond New River. These public waters are also in West Virginia and fall under the same state rules.
Planning your trip to New River
A valid West Virginia fishing license is generally required to fish public waters — buy it from West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) before you go, and check seasonal closures and any gear restrictions for river waters. The links above open the official West Virginia license, limits, and stocking pages.
When to fish New River
Rivers fish best with stable, clear flows; spring runoff and dam releases change conditions fast.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license to fish New River?
Public waters in West Virginia generally require a state fishing license for anyone past the minimum age; check West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) for exact rules and any free-fishing days.
What species can I target here?
This water is associated with Smallmouth Bass.