Burnside Reservoir Fish Stocking
Montana · 1981–1982 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Burnside Reservoir was last stocked July 16, 1982 with Smallmouth Bass. Burnside Reservoir has 2 stocking records on file, spanning 1981–1982, with about 3,000 fish stocked over that period.
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Burnside 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 Burnside 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 Burnside Reservoir was last stocked July 16, 1982, 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 Burnside 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 Burnside 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 Burnside Reservoir, freshest activity first.
Mud Turtle Reservoir
6 mi2 species · 43 records
Last stocked May 2025
Blacks Sawmill Pond
19 mi2 species · 36 records
Last stocked May 2025
Yonkee Reservoir
5 mi3 species · 20 records
Last stocked May 2006
Burley Pond
19 mi3 species · 21 records
Last stocked April 1985
Sam's Pond
19 mi1 species · 1 records
Last stocked July 1983
Drop Tube Reservoir
17 mi1 species · 1 records
Last stocked July 1982
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 16, 1982 | Smallmouth Bass | 1,000 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| July 1, 1981 | Smallmouth Bass | 2,000 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Burnside Reservoir last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Burnside Reservoir was last stocked July 16, 1982 with Smallmouth Bass.
What fish species are stocked in Burnside Reservoir?
Burnside Reservoir is stocked with Smallmouth Bass.
How often is Burnside Reservoir stocked?
Burnside Reservoir is stocked intermittently — 2 recorded stockings between 1981 and 1982.
How many fish have been stocked in Burnside Reservoir?
About 3,000 fish have been stocked in Burnside Reservoir across 2 recorded events since 1981, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Burnside Reservoir?
Fish stocked in Burnside Reservoir average about 2.0 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Burnside 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.