Williams Coulee Reservoir Fish Stocking
Montana · 1937–1941 on record
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Williams Coulee Reservoir was last stocked September 10, 1941 with Bluegill. Williams Coulee Reservoir has 2 stocking records on file, spanning 1937–1941, with about 400 fish stocked over that period.
By species
Angler's Field Guide
Fishing Tips & Stocking Guide for Williams Coulee 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 Williams Coulee 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 Williams Coulee Reservoir was last stocked September 10, 1941, 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 Williams Coulee 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.
Bluegill Profile Tips
A staple of family and youth fishing programs; readily takes worms, small jigs, and flies.
Recommended Tackle for Williams Coulee 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 Williams Coulee Reservoir, freshest activity first.
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4 mi7 species · 11 records
Last stocked July 2024
Ester Lake
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Last stocked July 2023
Doll Pond
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Saddlebrook Pond
12 mi3 species · 40 records
Last stocked June 2017
Little Warm Reservoir
11 mi3 species · 29 records
Last stocked June 2016
Empire Reservoir
3 mi2 species · 4 records
Last stocked June 2012
Stocking history
Most recent stockings first. Dates shown at the precision the agency reported.
| Date | Species | Number | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| September 10, 1941 | Bluegill | 100 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
| September 16, 1937 | Bass | 300 | 2" | Montana fish & wildlife agency |
Frequently asked
When was Williams Coulee Reservoir last stocked?
According to Montana fish & wildlife agency, Williams Coulee Reservoir was last stocked September 10, 1941 with Bluegill.
What fish species are stocked in Williams Coulee Reservoir?
Williams Coulee Reservoir is stocked with Bluegill and Bass.
How often is Williams Coulee Reservoir stocked?
Williams Coulee Reservoir is stocked intermittently — 2 recorded stockings between 1937 and 1941.
How many fish have been stocked in Williams Coulee Reservoir?
About 400 fish have been stocked in Williams Coulee Reservoir across 2 recorded events since 1937, per Montana fish & wildlife agency.
What size are the fish stocked in Williams Coulee Reservoir?
Fish stocked in Williams Coulee Reservoir average about 2.0 inches, based on the sizes the agency reported.
Do you need a fishing license to fish Williams Coulee 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.