Wild Horse Reservoir Fish Stocking
Montana · 2008–2010 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Wild Horse Reservoir was last stocked June 2, 2010 with Northern Pike. Wild Horse Reservoir has 3 stocking records on file, spanning 2008–2010, with about 16,563 fish stocked over that period.
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Wild Horse 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 Wild Horse 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 Wild Horse Reservoir was last stocked June 2, 2010, 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 Wild Horse 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.
Northern Pike Profile Tips
Known for aggressive strikes on large spoons, spinnerbaits, and live bait; its sharp teeth call for wire leaders.
Yellow Perch Profile Tips
A favorite ice-fishing target across the states that stock it, as well as an open-water panfish taken on small jigs and bait.
Recommended Tackle for Wild Horse 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 Wild Horse Reservoir, freshest activity first.
Reservoir Number 161
5 mi7 species · 11 records
Last stocked July 2024
Ester Lake
4 mi3 species · 41 records
Last stocked July 2023
Doll Pond
1 mi3 species · 5 records
Last stocked June 2017
Little Warm Reservoir
5 mi3 species · 29 records
Last stocked June 2016
Empire Reservoir
10 mi2 species · 4 records
Last stocked June 2012
Unnamed Pond
7 mi6 species · 12 records
Last stocked September 1990
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| June 2, 2010 | Northern Pike | 5,043 | 3.2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| June 4, 2009 | Northern Pike | 10,170 | 3" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| July 10, 2008 | Yellow Perch | 1,350 | 3.5" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Wild Horse Reservoir last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Wild Horse Reservoir was last stocked June 2, 2010 with Northern Pike.
What fish species are stocked in Wild Horse Reservoir?
Wild Horse Reservoir is stocked with Northern Pike and Yellow Perch.
How often is Wild Horse Reservoir stocked?
Wild Horse Reservoir is stocked intermittently — 3 recorded stockings between 2008 and 2010.
How many fish have been stocked in Wild Horse Reservoir?
About 16,563 fish have been stocked in Wild Horse Reservoir across 3 recorded events since 2008, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Wild Horse Reservoir?
Fish stocked in Wild Horse Reservoir average about 3.2 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Wild Horse 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.