Fishing Holter Reservoir
AKA: Holter Lake
Popular Fish Species Holter Reservoir, MT
Walleye Fishing
Thanks to a significant baitfish population, and presence of numerous small sunfish in the lake, walleye are thriving in the fertile waters of Holter Reservoir this year. May and June tend to be the best time for weekend anglers to catch them. During this time they tend to move shallower, closer to shore and begin spawning. Rock and gravel are preferred areas for the spawn. Other times of the year they are more likely to roam around in deeper water. As always, stay around schools of baitfish. They are eager to feed throughout the lake, but tend to concentrate around structure on points, flats and ledges off the river channels. Walleye have excellent, low-light vision which helps them find food in deep or murky water. Make an effort to be on the water during low light conditions. A proven method for catching walleye here is trolling with spinners tipped with live bait, or trolling with long-billed, deep diving crankbaits. However casting live bait, jigs, worms and spoons also works well at times. When the lake freezes over in winter, ice fishing for walleye can be very productive. Use GPS to locate spots you normally fish during other times of the year.
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Excellent stocking programs by the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout for anglers at Holter Reservoir. Brook and brown trout also reside here. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. While fishing from a boat is preferred, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.
Yellow Perch Fishing
Yellow perch tend to spawn in the April to May timeframe, and the spawn has been strong for years at Holter Reservoir. As a result, the lake continues to maintain a very healthy population of yellow perch, which have been a mainstay in the fishery for decades. They are fun to catch in winter when ice fishing as well. Yellow perch are great table fare, and are a food source for many predator fish in the lake. Fishing for yellow perch is simple, their primary diet consists of minnows and other small fish, insects and worms. Yellow perch tend to gather in small groups and hang out on relatively deep structure, near cover and/or drop-offs. Use a small hook and sinker. Bait a small hook with minnows, worms or small jigs using 6 to 10 pound line.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for walleye, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout, brown trout, yellow perch, kokanee salmon and northern pike at Holter Reservoir in Montana.
Holter Reservoir Fishing Video
Holter Dam, on the Missouri River, creates Holter Reservoir creating some excellent fishing opportunities. This 4,800-acre lake has around 50 miles of shoreline (Upper and Lower) and is located in the west-central part of the state, at Wolf Creek, MT.
Holter Reservoir, located on the Missouri River in southwestern Montana, is a popular fishing destination known for its scenic beauty and abundant fish populations. This reservoir covers approximately 4,000 acres and offers anglers a variety of fishing opportunities.
One of the popular fish species found in Holter Reservoir is the rainbow trout. The reservoir is known for its healthy population of rainbow trout, both stocked and wild. Anglers can target rainbow trout using various techniques such as fly fishing, spin fishing, or bait fishing. The clear waters and swift currents of the Missouri River provide an ideal habitat for these spirited fish.
Walleye is another sought-after species in Holter Reservoir. These prized game fish offer anglers an exciting fishing experience and can be targeted using techniques such as trolling with crankbaits, jigging with live bait or artificial lures, or casting near underwater structures. Holter Reservoir has produced impressive walleye catches over the years, attracting anglers looking for both quantity and quality.
Holter Reservoir is also home to other fish species such as brown trout, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. Brown trout are known for their elusive nature and can provide a rewarding challenge for anglers. Northern pike, with their aggressive nature and impressive size, offer anglers a chance to test their skills. Smallmouth bass, known for their tenacity and acrobatic fights, provide additional angling opportunities.
Anglers visiting Holter Reservoir should be aware of fishing regulations and obtain the appropriate licenses. It's important to follow catch limits, size restrictions, and specific rules regarding certain fish species to ensure the sustainability of the fish populations and the preservation of the reservoir's ecosystem.
With its picturesque setting, diverse fish species, and excellent fishing and boating opportunities, Holter Reservoir offers anglers a memorable fishing experience in Montana. Whether it's targeting rainbow trout, pursuing walleye, or casting for other popular fish species, Holter Reservoir provides a scenic and rewarding angling adventure amidst the beauty of Montana's landscapes.
Ice fishing throughout the winter provides some quality perch for fish fry's. From Spring through fall, anglers fish Holter Lake in search of walleye, trout, perch, salmon and pike. There are several areas of the lake with access for shoreline fishing, and a fishing pier as well. This impounded section of the river is scenic, surrounded by rugged mountains and trees. Launch a canoe, kayak or fishing boat at Holter Lake boat ramp and Log Gulch ramp. A marina, stores, restaurants and shopping are all close at hand. Campgrounds and RV parks are available at the lake.
Primary fish species residing in Holter Reservoir
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Holter Reservoir Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NO
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Holter Reservoir, and anglers can access the lake using the public boat ramps available. The reservoir allows for motorized boats, providing anglers with the opportunity to explore different areas of the reservoir and access prime fishing spots. Whether it's trolling for walleye, casting for bass, or cruising along the picturesque shoreline, boating enhances the overall fishing experience on Holter Reservoir.
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Burke Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast section of the main lake, off Beartooth Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Gates Of The Mountains Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the upper lake, off Gates Of The Mountains Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with docks and gravel parking.
Log Gulch Recreation Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side of the main lake, off Beartooth Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Fishing Guides On Holter Reservoir
Montana Hunt & Fish Outfitters - walleye, pike, perch, trout
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Montana Fishing License.
Camping facilities can be found in the surrounding area, allowing anglers to extend their fishing trips and fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the reservoir. Campgrounds offer amenities such as picnic areas, fire pits, and restrooms, making it convenient for anglers and their families to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the lake.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Departure Point Campground Campground - 406 235-4480
Log Gulch Campground - 406 235-4314
Bureau Land Management Campground - 406 235-4480
Coulter Campground - (Access by boat only)
US Land Management Bureau Campground - 406 235-4314
Holter Reservoir MT Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Holter Reservoir
US Land Management Bureau Campground
1380 Beartooth Rd
Wolf Creek, MT 59648
406 235-4314
Fishing lakes in each state.
080524
Holter Reservoir in Montana.
MONTANA
Information about fishing lakes in Montana
Fishing in west-central Montana for walleye, trout, perch, salmon and pike.
