Harbaugh Bass Pond Fish Stocking
Montana · 1946–1997 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Harbaugh Bass Pond was last stocked July 24, 1997 with Largemouth Bass. Harbaugh Bass Pond has 7 stocking records on file, spanning 1946–1997, with about 8,560 fish stocked over that period.
When Harbaugh Bass Pond is stocked
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Harbaugh Bass Pond
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 Harbaugh Bass Pond, 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 Harbaugh Bass Pond was last stocked July 24, 1997, 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 Harbaugh Bass Pond:
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.
Largemouth Bass Profile Tips
The centerpiece of American bass fishing culture, taken on everything from topwater lures to soft plastics and live bait.
Northern Pike Profile Tips
Known for aggressive strikes on large spoons, spinnerbaits, and live bait; its sharp teeth call for wire leaders.
Recommended Tackle for Harbaugh Bass Pond
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 Harbaugh Bass Pond, freshest activity first.
Mardrie Baker Reservoir
4 mi1 species · 11 records
Last stocked May 2025
Murnion Coleman #2
7 mi1 species · 1 records
Last stocked March 2000
Smith Cattle Inc Pond 1
17 mi2 species · 12 records
Last stocked September 1999
Harbaugh Reservoir
3 mi4 species · 21 records
Last stocked September 1986
Clear Reservoir
5 mi1 species · 2 records
Last stocked April 1984
Ross Bass Pond #1
15 mi1 species · 1 records
Last stocked July 1983
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 24, 1997 | Largemouth Bass | 1,500 | 1.5" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| July 26, 1993 | Largemouth Bass | 2,000 | 2.1" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| July 9, 1992 | Largemouth Bass | 1,500 | 1.8" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| July 15, 1991 | Largemouth Bass | 1,500 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| May 28, 1971 | Northern Pike | 1,500 | 3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| October 24, 1946 | Crappie | 400 | 1" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| October 24, 1946 | Largemouth Bass | 160 | 3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Harbaugh Bass Pond last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Harbaugh Bass Pond was last stocked July 24, 1997 with Largemouth Bass.
What fish species are stocked in Harbaugh Bass Pond?
Harbaugh Bass Pond is stocked with Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Crappie.
How often is Harbaugh Bass Pond stocked?
Harbaugh Bass Pond is stocked intermittently — 7 recorded stockings between 1946 and 1997.
How many fish have been stocked in Harbaugh Bass Pond?
About 8,560 fish have been stocked in Harbaugh Bass Pond across 7 recorded events since 1946, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Harbaugh Bass Pond?
Fish stocked in Harbaugh Bass Pond average about 2.1 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Harbaugh Bass Pond?
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.