Mathershead Dam Fish Stocking
Montana · 1955–1955 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Mathershead Dam was last stocked September 16, 1955 with Bluegill. Mathershead Dam has 2 stocking records on file, spanning 1955–1955, with about 3,000 fish stocked over that period.
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Mathershead Dam
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 Mathershead Dam, 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 Mathershead Dam was last stocked September 16, 1955, 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 Mathershead Dam:
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.
Bluegill Profile Tips
A staple of family and youth fishing programs; readily takes worms, small jigs, and flies.
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 Mathershead Dam
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 Mathershead Dam, freshest activity first.
Kountz Pond
13 mi1 species · 8 records
Last stocked May 2025
Quick Reservoir
6 mi5 species · 11 records
Last stocked May 1982
Pawlowski Dam
12 mi4 species · 12 records
Last stocked July 1971
Groh Reservoir
10 mi2 species · 3 records
Last stocked September 1961
Wendell Dam
12 mi1 species · 2 records
Last stocked July 1960
Mamle Reservoir
6 mi2 species · 2 records
Last stocked October 1957
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 16, 1955 | Bluegill | 2,500 | 3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| September 16, 1955 | Largemouth Bass | 500 | 4" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Mathershead Dam last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Mathershead Dam was last stocked September 16, 1955 with Bluegill.
What fish species are stocked in Mathershead Dam?
Mathershead Dam is stocked with Bluegill and Largemouth Bass.
How often is Mathershead Dam stocked?
Mathershead Dam has been stocked about 2 times a year — 2 recorded stockings between 1955 and 1955.
How many fish have been stocked in Mathershead Dam?
About 3,000 fish have been stocked in Mathershead Dam across 2 recorded events since 1955, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Mathershead Dam?
Fish stocked in Mathershead Dam average about 3.5 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Mathershead Dam?
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.