Schaffer Pond #3 Fish Stocking
Montana · 1955–1955 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Schaffer Pond #3 was last stocked October 25, 1955 with Bluegill. Schaffer Pond #3 has 2 stocking records on file, spanning 1955–1955, with about 2,100 fish stocked over that period.
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Schaffer Pond #3
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 Schaffer Pond #3, 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 Schaffer Pond #3 was last stocked October 25, 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 Schaffer Pond #3:
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 Schaffer Pond #3
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 Schaffer Pond #3, freshest activity first.
Roerick Pond
9 mi1 species · 16 records
Last stocked April 2026
Talcott Pond
14 mi2 species · 21 records
Last stocked May 2025
Sanburn Reservoir
14 mi2 species · 18 records
Last stocked September 1985
Pemberton Pond 2
8 mi3 species · 3 records
Last stocked May 1965
Phillippi Reservoir
15 mi2 species · 2 records
Last stocked July 1962
Lambert Reservoir
14 mi2 species · 6 records
Last stocked July 1961
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| October 25, 1955 | Bluegill | 1,500 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| October 25, 1955 | Largemouth Bass | 600 | 5" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Schaffer Pond #3 last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Schaffer Pond #3 was last stocked October 25, 1955 with Bluegill.
What fish species are stocked in Schaffer Pond #3?
Schaffer Pond #3 is stocked with Bluegill and Largemouth Bass.
How often is Schaffer Pond #3 stocked?
Schaffer Pond #3 has been stocked about 2 times a year — 2 recorded stockings between 1955 and 1955.
How many fish have been stocked in Schaffer Pond #3?
About 2,100 fish have been stocked in Schaffer Pond #3 across 2 recorded events since 1955, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Schaffer Pond #3?
Fish stocked in Schaffer Pond #3 average about 3.5 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Schaffer Pond #3?
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.