Lake West Fish Stocking
Montana · 1969–1969 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Lake West was last stocked July 18, 1969 with Largemouth Bass. Lake West has 1 stocking record on file, spanning 1969–1969, with about 56 fish stocked over that period.
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Lake West
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 Lake West, 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 Lake West was last stocked July 18, 1969, 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 Lake West:
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.
Recommended Tackle for Lake West
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 Lake West, freshest activity first.
Lake Five
2 mi8 species · 133 records
Last stocked May 2026
Halfmoon Lake
2 mi5 species · 69 records
Last stocked May 2026
Beta Lake
9 mi1 species · 13 records
Last stocked July 2025
Fawn Lake
9 mi1 species · 14 records
Last stocked July 2025
Rivers Edge Pond
8 mi1 species · 14 records
Last stocked May 2025
Spoon Lake
6 mi4 species · 105 records
Last stocked June 2017
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 18, 1969 | Largemouth Bass | 56 | 7" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Lake West last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Lake West was last stocked July 18, 1969 with Largemouth Bass.
What fish species are stocked in Lake West?
Lake West is stocked with Largemouth Bass.
How often is Lake West stocked?
Lake West is stocked intermittently — 1 recorded stockings between 1969 and 1969.
How many fish have been stocked in Lake West?
About 56 fish have been stocked in Lake West across 1 recorded events since 1969, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Lake West?
Fish stocked in Lake West average about 7.0 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Lake West?
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.