Poker Jim Reservoir Fish Stocking
Montana · 1982–1982 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Poker Jim Reservoir was last stocked July 16, 1982 with Smallmouth Bass. Poker Jim Reservoir has 1 stocking record on file, spanning 1982–1982, with about 750 fish stocked over that period.
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Poker Jim 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 Poker Jim 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 Poker Jim Reservoir was last stocked July 16, 1982, 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 Poker Jim 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.
Smallmouth Bass Profile Tips
Prized for its aerial fight; often targeted with crayfish-imitating jigs and tubes along rocky structure.
Recommended Tackle for Poker Jim 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 Poker Jim Reservoir, freshest activity first.
Blacks Sawmill Pond
4 mi2 species · 36 records
Last stocked May 2025
Mud Turtle Reservoir
18 mi2 species · 43 records
Last stocked May 2025
Lost Leg Pond
18 mi1 species · 47 records
Last stocked June 2008
Yonkee Reservoir
16 mi3 species · 20 records
Last stocked May 2006
Red Rock Reservoir Number One
1 mi2 species · 3 records
Last stocked July 1982
Burnside Reservoir
21 mi1 species · 2 records
Last stocked July 1982
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| July 16, 1982 | Smallmouth Bass | 750 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Poker Jim Reservoir last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Poker Jim Reservoir was last stocked July 16, 1982 with Smallmouth Bass.
What fish species are stocked in Poker Jim Reservoir?
Poker Jim Reservoir is stocked with Smallmouth Bass.
How often is Poker Jim Reservoir stocked?
Poker Jim Reservoir is stocked intermittently — 1 recorded stockings between 1982 and 1982.
How many fish have been stocked in Poker Jim Reservoir?
About 750 fish have been stocked in Poker Jim Reservoir across 1 recorded events since 1982, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Poker Jim Reservoir?
Fish stocked in Poker Jim Reservoir average about 2.0 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Poker Jim 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.