Mattingly Pond Fish Stocking
Montana · 1956–1989 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Mattingly Pond was last stocked June 29, 1989 with Walleye. Mattingly Pond has 3 stocking records on file, spanning 1956–1989, with about 21,600 fish stocked over that period.
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Mattingly 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 Mattingly 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 Mattingly Pond was last stocked June 29, 1989, 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 Mattingly 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.
Walleye Profile Tips
Highly regarded as table fare; typically targeted with jigs, live bait rigs, or trolled crankbaits, often after dark.
Bluegill Profile Tips
A staple of family and youth fishing programs; readily takes worms, small jigs, and flies.
Recommended Tackle for Mattingly 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 Mattingly Pond, freshest activity first.
Knudsen Bros Pond
12 mi3 species · 13 records
Last stocked June 2025
Hofman Reservoir
18 mi2 species · 69 records
Last stocked May 2025
Crusch Reservoir
12 mi2 species · 30 records
Last stocked May 2025
Big Muddy Reservoir
23 mi2 species · 49 records
Last stocked May 2022
Lund Reservoir
23 mi1 species · 32 records
Last stocked April 2007
Bainville RR Pond #1
16 mi9 species · 28 records
Last stocked May 1996
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 29, 1989 | Walleye | 20,000 | 1.9" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| October 4, 1956 | Bluegill | 1,200 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| October 4, 1956 | Largemouth Bass | 400 | 5" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Mattingly Pond last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Mattingly Pond was last stocked June 29, 1989 with Walleye.
What fish species are stocked in Mattingly Pond?
Mattingly Pond is stocked with Walleye, Bluegill, and Largemouth Bass.
How often is Mattingly Pond stocked?
Mattingly Pond is stocked intermittently — 3 recorded stockings between 1956 and 1989.
How many fish have been stocked in Mattingly Pond?
About 21,600 fish have been stocked in Mattingly Pond across 3 recorded events since 1956, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Mattingly Pond?
Fish stocked in Mattingly Pond average about 3.0 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Mattingly 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.