Deadmans Basin Reservoir
Near Lewistown, Montana
Deadmans Basin Reservoir is a popular central Montana reservoir near Shawmut offering excellent fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. The reservoir is stocked regularly and provides consistent fishing throughout the open water season. Trolling is the most effective method, with cowbells and wedding rings productive for kokanee while spoons and Rapalas work well for trout. Shore fishing can be productive from several access points around the reservoir. Spring and fall provide the best trout fishing when fish move shallow, while summer trolling targets kokanee in deeper water. Ice fishing is popular during winter months for trout and perch. FWP maintains camping facilities and boat ramps at the reservoir. The scenic location between the Crazy Mountains and the Snowy Mountains provides beautiful backdrop. Deadmans Basin is one of the more reliable kokanee fisheries in central Montana and attracts anglers from the Billings and Bozeman areas.