Hauser Reservoir
Near Helena, Montana
Hauser Reservoir is one of three Missouri River impoundments between Helena and Great Falls, created by Hauser Dam and offering diverse fishing opportunities year-round. The lake supports excellent populations of rainbow trout, brown trout, walleye, yellow perch, and kokanee salmon, making it popular with both fly anglers and conventional tackle fishermen. Spring and fall provide the best trout fishing, with rainbow trout averaging 14-18 inches and occasional browns exceeding 20 inches. The walleye fishery has grown in recent years, with fish to 8 pounds available. Bank fishing access is available at Black Sandy State Park and several FWP sites, while boat anglers can launch at multiple ramps around the reservoir. The canyon setting between the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountains provides scenic backdrop to productive fishing. Ice fishing is popular in winter for perch, walleye, and trout. The dam's proximity to Helena makes Hauser Reservoir one of the most accessible quality fisheries in central Montana.