Latka Reservoir Fish Stocking
Montana · 1945–1979 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Latka Reservoir was last stocked June 13, 1979 with Northern Pike. Latka Reservoir has 10 stocking records on file, spanning 1945–1979, with about 32,465 fish stocked over that period.
When Latka Reservoir is stocked
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Latka 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 Latka 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 Latka Reservoir was last stocked June 13, 1979, 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 Latka 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.
Northern Pike Profile Tips
Known for aggressive strikes on large spoons, spinnerbaits, and live bait; its sharp teeth call for wire leaders.
Yellow Perch Profile Tips
A favorite ice-fishing target across the states that stock it, as well as an open-water panfish taken on small jigs and bait.
Recommended Tackle for Latka 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 Latka Reservoir, freshest activity first.
Kuester Lake
11 mi5 species · 24 records
Last stocked August 2024
Verschoot Reservoir
4 mi1 species · 18 records
Last stocked June 2021
Salsbury Reservoir
8 mi1 species · 46 records
Last stocked May 2020
Fatzinger Reservoir
14 mi5 species · 8 records
Last stocked May 1991
Gladowski Reservoir
11 mi4 species · 23 records
Last stocked October 1987
Peer Reservoir
12 mi2 species · 5 records
Last stocked July 1982
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 13, 1979 | Northern Pike | 4,000 | 1" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| May 16, 1979 | Yellow Perch | 2,665 | 5" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| September 9, 1976 | Yellow Perch | 800 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| August 20, 1973 | Largemouth Bass | 1,000 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| October 6, 1960 | Bluegill | 12,500 | 1" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| July 25, 1960 | Largemouth Bass | 2,500 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| August 17, 1956 | Largemouth Bass | 6,000 | 3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| October 16, 1945 | Largemouth Bass | 1,350 | 3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Show 2 more stocking records →
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 16, 1945 | Bluegill | 300 | 3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| October 16, 1945 | Crappie | 1,350 | 1" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Latka Reservoir last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Latka Reservoir was last stocked June 13, 1979 with Northern Pike.
What fish species are stocked in Latka Reservoir?
Latka Reservoir is stocked with Northern Pike, Yellow Perch, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and Crappie.
How often is Latka Reservoir stocked?
Latka Reservoir is stocked intermittently — 10 recorded stockings between 1945 and 1979.
How many fish have been stocked in Latka Reservoir?
About 32,465 fish have been stocked in Latka Reservoir across 10 recorded events since 1945, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Latka Reservoir?
Fish stocked in Latka Reservoir average about 2.3 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Latka 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.