Pawlowski Reservoir Fish Stocking
Montana · 1963–1965 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Pawlowski Reservoir was last stocked June 1, 1965 with Walleye. Pawlowski Reservoir has 2 stocking records on file, spanning 1963–1965, with about 20,000 fish stocked over that period.
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Pawlowski 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 Pawlowski 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 Pawlowski Reservoir was last stocked June 1, 1965, 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 Pawlowski 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.
Walleye Profile Tips
Highly regarded as table fare; typically targeted with jigs, live bait rigs, or trolled crankbaits, often after dark.
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 Pawlowski 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 Pawlowski Reservoir, freshest activity first.
Twitchel Res
12 mi1 species · 4 records
Last stocked April 1999
Dreyer Reservoir
8 mi2 species · 16 records
Last stocked May 1992
Skunkbrush Reservoir
9 mi2 species · 10 records
Last stocked July 1986
Breezy Basin Reservoir
16 mi1 species · 1 records
Last stocked April 1984
Blm Sec 31 Reservoir
19 mi1 species · 1 records
Last stocked July 1983
Pawlowski Dam
19 mi4 species · 12 records
Last stocked July 1971
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 1, 1965 | Walleye | 8,000 | 0 | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| June 19, 1963 | Largemouth Bass | 12,000 | 1" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Pawlowski Reservoir last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Pawlowski Reservoir was last stocked June 1, 1965 with Walleye.
What fish species are stocked in Pawlowski Reservoir?
Pawlowski Reservoir is stocked with Walleye and Largemouth Bass.
How often is Pawlowski Reservoir stocked?
Pawlowski Reservoir is stocked intermittently — 2 recorded stockings between 1963 and 1965.
How many fish have been stocked in Pawlowski Reservoir?
About 20,000 fish have been stocked in Pawlowski Reservoir across 2 recorded events since 1963, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Pawlowski Reservoir?
Fish stocked in Pawlowski Reservoir average about 1.0 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Pawlowski 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.