Blm Sec 31 Reservoir Fish Stocking
Montana · 1983–1983 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Blm Sec 31 Reservoir was last stocked July 23, 1983 with Smallmouth Bass. Blm Sec 31 Reservoir has 1 stocking record on file, spanning 1983–1983, with about 500 fish stocked over that period.
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Blm Sec 31 Reservoir
Practical advice on fish behavior, recommended tackle, and state regulations for anglers fishing in Montana.
Post-Plant Behavior & Timing
Hatchery-raised fish are conditioned to pelleted feed and open raceways. Following a release into Blm Sec 31 Reservoir, they typically congregate in schools near public access points, boat ramps, or inlets for the first 24 to 48 hours while adjusting to natural water conditions.
Since Blm Sec 31 Reservoir was last stocked July 23, 1983, anglers visiting within 1 to 2 weeks of a reported event generally experience the highest activity before fish disperse into deeper cover.
State Regulations & Licensing
- •Fishing License: A valid Montana freshwater fishing license is required for anglers age 16 and older.Purchase Montana license online →
- •Official Rules & Limits: Bag limits, bait restrictions, and seasonal boundaries are set by Montana fish & wildlife agency.Official Montana regulations guidebook →
- •Ethical Conservation: Use barbless hooks and keep fish submerged in water during unhooking.
Recommended Tackle & Presentations
Techniques tailored to the species stocked in Blm Sec 31 Reservoir:
Bass & Panfish Approach
Target visible structure such as docks, weed lines, and fallen trees. Small 1/32 to 1/16 oz jig heads with soft plastic grubs or live worms under a float work well for crappie and bluegill; soft plastic worms or spinnerbaits work well for bass.
Smallmouth Bass Profile Tips
Prized for its aerial fight; often targeted with crayfish-imitating jigs and tubes along rocky structure.
Recommended Tackle for Blm Sec 31 Reservoir
Field-tested tackle and presentations matched to the species stocked here.
Gary Yamamoto 5-inch Custom Senko Stickbaits
The heavy salt-impregnated plastic produces a unique horizontal shimmy on the fall around weed beds, docks, and submerged timber.
Bobby Garland Baby Shad Crappie Jig & Plastic Kit
Micro-jig heads paired with soft swimbaits mimic tiny baitfish and insects for schooling crappie and bluegill.
Aluminum Fishing Pliers with Braid Cutters
Safely removes hooks, pinches split-shot sinkers, and cleanly snips braided, mono, and fluorocarbon lines.
Plano Waterproof Utility Tackle Box Tray (3600)
Keeps terminal tackle, weights, and spinners dry and corrosion-free with customizable compartments.
As an Amazon Associate, StockedWaters earns from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are chosen for hatchery-conditioned fish behavior and ethical rigging. We may receive a referral commission if you buy through these links. Read our editorial policy & standards.
Nearby stocked waters
Other stocked waters near Blm Sec 31 Reservoir, freshest activity first.
Fort Peck Lake
20 mi16 species · 1842 records
Last stocked July 2025
Medicine Lake
17 mi10 species · 82 records
Last stocked June 2025
McRae Reservoir 1, Jack
18 mi1 species · 34 records
Last stocked May 2025
Olsen Pond 1
21 mi1 species · 22 records
Last stocked March 2005
Twitchel Res
7 mi1 species · 4 records
Last stocked April 1999
McRae Reservoir 2, Jack
17 mi1 species · 1 records
Last stocked July 1990
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 23, 1983 | Smallmouth Bass | 500 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Blm Sec 31 Reservoir last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Blm Sec 31 Reservoir was last stocked July 23, 1983 with Smallmouth Bass.
What fish species are stocked in Blm Sec 31 Reservoir?
Blm Sec 31 Reservoir is stocked with Smallmouth Bass.
How often is Blm Sec 31 Reservoir stocked?
Blm Sec 31 Reservoir is stocked intermittently — 1 recorded stockings between 1983 and 1983.
How many fish have been stocked in Blm Sec 31 Reservoir?
About 500 fish have been stocked in Blm Sec 31 Reservoir across 1 recorded events since 1983, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Blm Sec 31 Reservoir?
Fish stocked in Blm Sec 31 Reservoir average about 2.0 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Blm Sec 31 Reservoir?
Yes, all anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid Montana freshwater fishing license. Always review current regulations from Montana fish & wildlife agency for site-specific rules, bag limits, or stamps.