Fishing Hauser Lake
AKA: Hauser Lake State Park and Dam
Popular Fish Species Hauser Lake, MT
Rainbow Trout Fishing
Excellent stocking programs by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout for anglers at Hauser Lake. 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.
Brown Trout Fishing
Currently, fishing for brown trout in Hauser Lake is delivering some nice catches. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed.
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 Hauser Lake 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.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for walleye, rainbow trout, brook trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, yellow perch and kokanee salmon at Hauser Lake in Montana.
Hauser Lake Fishing Video
Hauser Dam on on the Missouri River created Hauser Lake, a 3,200-acre lake in the west-central part of the state, on the northeast outskirts of Helena. It is a great getaway for boating, camping and fishing.
Hauser Lake, located in southwestern Montana, is a popular fishing destination known for its serene atmosphere and excellent fishing opportunities. This reservoir spans over 3,000 acres and offers anglers a diverse range of fish species to target.
One of the popular fish species found in Hauser Lake is the rainbow trout. The lake 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. Hauser Lake provides ample shoreline access and boat fishing opportunities, allowing anglers to explore different areas of the lake and find their preferred fishing spots.
Walleye is another sought-after species in Hauser Lake. These prized game fish offer a thrilling 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. Hauser Lake has produced impressive walleye catches, attracting anglers looking for both quantity and quality.
Hauser Lake also supports populations of other fish species such as smallmouth bass, northern pike, and yellow perch. Smallmouth bass provide an exciting fight and can be caught using techniques such as casting with jigs, crankbaits, or topwater lures. Northern pike, known for their aggressive nature and impressive size, offer anglers a chance to test their skills. Yellow perch, known for their delicious taste, can be caught using small jigs or baited hooks.
Anglers visiting Hauser Lake 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 lake's ecosystem.
With its tranquil setting, diverse fish species, and excellent fishing and boating opportunities, Hauser Lake offers anglers a memorable fishing experience in Montana. Whether it's targeting rainbow trout, pursuing walleye, or casting for other popular fish species, Hauser Lake provides a scenic and rewarding angling adventure amidst the beauty of Montana's landscapes.
Avid fishing enthusiasts come for great walleye, trout, perch and kokanee fishing. There are about 35 miles of scenic shoreline, and everything you need to make your fishing trip memorable. Visitors will find boat ramps, rental boats, stores, fishing gear, camping and restaurants conveniently located around the lake. Hauser Lake State Park, Black Sandy State Park and Riverside Campground all make a great headquarters during your stay.
Primary fish species residing in Hauser Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Hauser Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a popular activity on Hauser Lake, and anglers can launch their boats from the public boat ramps available. The lake 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 Hauser Lake.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Helena Boat Rental
Rentals: Pontoon boats
406 439-1183
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Clark's Bay Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off York Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with paved parking.
Devils Elbow Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off York Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Riverside Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast section of the lake, east side, off Riverside Road, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
White Sandy Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest section of the lake, west side, off Hauser Dam Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Marinas
Lakeside Marina
5295 York Road
Helena MT 59602
406 227‐6076
Fishing Guides On Hauser Lake
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 near Hauser Lake, offering anglers the opportunity to extend their fishing trips and immerse themselves in the beauty of the surrounding area. Campgrounds provide 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
Devil's Elbow Campground - 406 533-7600
Riverside Campground - 406 475-3921
Hauser Lake MT Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Hauser Lake
Devil's Elbow Campground
5988 York Rd
Helena, MT 59602
406 533-7600
Fishing lakes in each state.
081624
Hauser Lake in MT
MONTANA
Fishing for walleye, trout, perch and kokanee in west-central MT.
