Kwasney Reservoir Fish Stocking
Montana · 1955–1986 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Kwasney Reservoir was last stocked July 28, 1986 with Largemouth Bass. Kwasney Reservoir has 5 stocking records on file, spanning 1955–1986, with about 27,700 fish stocked over that period.
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Kwasney 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 Kwasney 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 Kwasney Reservoir was last stocked July 28, 1986, 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 Kwasney 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.
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 Kwasney 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.
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Nearby stocked waters
Other stocked waters near Kwasney Reservoir, freshest activity first.
Berreth Reservoir
11 mi5 species · 10 records
Last stocked August 1993
Fox Creek
18 mi7 species · 29 records
Last stocked August 1989
Skunkbrush Reservoir
18 mi2 species · 10 records
Last stocked July 1986
Upper Scheetz Reservoir
15 mi1 species · 1 records
Last stocked August 1984
McClellan Reservoir
14 mi1 species · 6 records
Last stocked April 1978
McCrea Reservoir
17 mi2 species · 5 records
Last stocked June 1975
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 28, 1986 | Largemouth Bass | 2,200 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| July 18, 1979 | Largemouth Bass | 8,000 | 1" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| June 9, 1972 | Northern Pike | 2,000 | 3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| October 4, 1960 | Largemouth Bass | 1,500 | 3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| June 5, 1955 | Walleye | 14,000 | 0 | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Kwasney Reservoir last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Kwasney Reservoir was last stocked July 28, 1986 with Largemouth Bass.
What fish species are stocked in Kwasney Reservoir?
Kwasney Reservoir is stocked with Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Walleye.
How often is Kwasney Reservoir stocked?
Kwasney Reservoir is stocked intermittently — 5 recorded stockings between 1955 and 1986.
How many fish have been stocked in Kwasney Reservoir?
About 27,700 fish have been stocked in Kwasney Reservoir across 5 recorded events since 1955, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Kwasney Reservoir?
Fish stocked in Kwasney Reservoir average about 2.3 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Kwasney 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.