Cochrane Reservoir Fish Stocking
Montana · 1977–2005 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Cochrane Reservoir was last stocked May 23, 2005 with Sauger. Cochrane Reservoir has 5 stocking records on file, spanning 1977–2005, with about 836,850 fish stocked over that period.
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Cochrane 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 Cochrane 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 Cochrane Reservoir was last stocked May 23, 2005, 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 Cochrane 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.
Sauger Profile Tips
Fished similarly to walleye — jigs and bottom-bouncing rigs worked near the river bottom.
Walleye Profile Tips
Highly regarded as table fare; typically targeted with jigs, live bait rigs, or trolled crankbaits, often after dark.
Recommended Tackle for Cochrane 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 Cochrane Reservoir, freshest activity first.
Wadsworth Lake
11 mi5 species · 104 records
Last stocked May 2026
Rainbow Dam Reservoir
3 mi4 species · 487 records
Last stocked October 2025
Giant Springs Fishing Pond
4 mi2 species · 202 records
Last stocked October 2025
Pow Wow Pond
3 mi3 species · 89 records
Last stocked June 2021
Ryan Reservoir
2 mi1 species · 1 records
Last stocked June 2005
Belt Creek
6 mi4 species · 339 records
Last stocked August 1996
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 23, 2005 | Sauger | 306,850 | 0.11" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| May 18, 2005 | Sauger | 130,000 | 0.11" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| May 14, 1986 | Walleye | 100,000 | 0 | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| April 30, 1985 | Walleye | 100,000 | 0 | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| May 10, 1977 | Walleye | 200,000 | 0 | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Cochrane Reservoir last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Cochrane Reservoir was last stocked May 23, 2005 with Sauger.
What fish species are stocked in Cochrane Reservoir?
Cochrane Reservoir is stocked with Sauger and Walleye.
How often is Cochrane Reservoir stocked?
Cochrane Reservoir is stocked intermittently — 5 recorded stockings between 1977 and 2005.
How many fish have been stocked in Cochrane Reservoir?
About 836,850 fish have been stocked in Cochrane Reservoir across 5 recorded events since 1977, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Cochrane Reservoir?
Fish stocked in Cochrane Reservoir average about 0.1 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Cochrane 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.