The Neversink splits into two very different worlds at the reservoir. Above it is the cold freestone headwater fished here; below the dam it becomes one of the NYC reservoir-release rivers, with partial tailwater character driven by Neversink Reservoir releases under the same basin flow-management program. Across both, public water does not mean a public bank — New York's Public Fishing Rights are 33-foot easements, and the lower gorge is genuinely difficult, access- and safety-sensitive ground, not casual visitor water. Confirm reach regulations and access before you go.