Guide To Fishing At Tongue River Reservoir

AKA: Tongue River Reservoir State Park

The perfect destination for water-activity enthusiasts, Tongue River Reservoir draws visitors for boating, camping, water sports and fishing. This is a 3,700-acre lake in the southeast part of the state, 5 miles northeast of Decker.

Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Lake Video
Contact Info

Tongue River Reservoir, located in southeastern Montana, is a popular fishing destination known for its abundant fish populations and scenic beauty. This reservoir covers approximately 12,000 acres and offers anglers a variety of fish species to target.

One of the popular fish species found in Tongue River Reservoir is the walleye. Known for their excellent taste and challenging fights, walleye are highly sought after by anglers. Tongue River Reservoir boasts a healthy walleye population, providing ample opportunities for anglers to reel in these prized fish. Anglers often use techniques such as jigging with live bait or artificial lures, trolling with crankbaits, or casting near underwater structures to entice the walleye.

Northern pike is another popular species in Tongue River Reservoir. These aggressive predators offer an exciting angling experience and can be targeted using techniques such as casting with large spoons or swimbaits, or trolling with crankbaits. Anglers are drawn to Tongue River Reservoir for the chance to catch these toothy predators and experience the thrill of a pike strike.

Tongue River Reservoir is also home to a variety of other fish species, including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Smallmouth bass, known for their acrobatic fights, can be targeted using techniques such as casting with jigs, crankbaits, or topwater lures. Largemouth bass can be found near submerged structures and can be caught using similar techniques. Crappie and catfish offer additional angling opportunities, with anglers using different bait and techniques to target these species.

Boating is a popular activity on Tongue River Reservoir, and anglers can access the lake using public boat ramps. The reservoir allows for motorized boats, providing anglers with the opportunity to explore different areas and access prime fishing spots. Whether it's trolling for walleye, casting for northern pike, or searching for other fish species, boating enhances the overall fishing experience on Tongue River Reservoir.

Camping facilities can be found near Tongue River Reservoir, offering anglers the opportunity to extend their fishing trips and fully enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic areas, fire pits, and restrooms, making it convenient for anglers and their families to relax and unwind after a day on the water.

Anglers visiting Tongue River 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 diverse fish species, excellent fishing opportunities, and scenic surroundings, Tongue River Reservoir offers anglers a memorable fishing experience in Montana. Whether it's targeting walleye, pursuing northern pike, or casting for other popular fish species, Tongue River Reservoir provides an exciting and enjoyable angling adventure amidst the beauty of Montana's landscapes.

A boat trip around the nearly 20 miles of shoreline is a pleasure in itself, as beauty is everywhere you look. And the fishing is even better. Warm-water and cold-water species both thrive here giving fishing enthusiasts many options. Big fat crappie, giant walleye and plentiful bass and pike draw most of the attention during the summer season. Ice fishing for crappie, perch, walleye and pike can be very productive. The lake also has a sauger, catfish and a variety of sunfish. There are rental boats and a nice boat launch ramp at Tongue River Reservoir State Park.

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, sauger, brown trout, bluegill, green sunfish, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch and northern pike at Tongue River Reservoir in Montana.

Primary fish species residing in Tongue River Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Tongue River Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: NO

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Pee Wee North Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Tongue River Reservoir Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Click here for a Montana Fishing License.