Upper Hay Coulee Fish Stocking
Montana · 1988–1989 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Upper Hay Coulee was last stocked August 1, 1989 with Largemouth Bass. Upper Hay Coulee has 2 stocking records on file, spanning 1988–1989, with about 6,450 fish stocked over that period.
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Upper Hay Coulee
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 Upper Hay Coulee, 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 Upper Hay Coulee was last stocked August 1, 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 Upper Hay Coulee:
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.
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 Upper Hay Coulee
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 Upper Hay Coulee, freshest activity first.
Yellowtail Afterbay Reservoir
10 mi3 species · 121 records
Last stocked May 2026
Bighorn Lake
11 mi9 species · 243 records
Last stocked June 2025
Little Bull Elk Creek
18 mi1 species · 4 records
Last stocked May 2013
Ten Mile Pond
3 mi2 species · 5 records
Last stocked July 1991
Prairie Dog Pond
14 mi1 species · 2 records
Last stocked August 1989
Whiskey Coule Lake
14 mi1 species · 4 records
Last stocked August 1989
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 1, 1989 | Largemouth Bass | 1,450 | 1.3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| June 13, 1988 | Largemouth Bass | 5,000 | 0.5" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Upper Hay Coulee last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Upper Hay Coulee was last stocked August 1, 1989 with Largemouth Bass.
What fish species are stocked in Upper Hay Coulee?
Upper Hay Coulee is stocked with Largemouth Bass.
How often is Upper Hay Coulee stocked?
Upper Hay Coulee is stocked intermittently — 2 recorded stockings between 1988 and 1989.
How many fish have been stocked in Upper Hay Coulee?
About 6,450 fish have been stocked in Upper Hay Coulee across 2 recorded events since 1988, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Upper Hay Coulee?
Fish stocked in Upper Hay Coulee average about 0.9 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Upper Hay Coulee?
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.