Yellowstone cutthroat trout introduction into Bokma Reservoir: Draft Checklist Environmental Assessment
Jul 7, 2025 3:50 PM
Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks (FWP) recently entered a Private Pond Fishing Access Agreement (PPFA) to stock fish in Bokma Reservoir for public access (EA FWP-CEA-FSH-R5-25-002). FWP is looking to supplement occasional stocking of native Yellowstone cutthroat trout (YCT) into Bokma Reservoir when opportunity arises.
Located in Stillwater County, Bokma Reservoir is approximately nine surface acres when full and is fed by a diversion from an unnamed tributary to Keyser Creek. Outflows from the pond drain to Keyser Creek. The pond was stocked with rainbow trout in the past, but no game fish are currently present. Lake chub are the only species that have been documented in Keyser Creek; however, there may be other native fish species present in Keyser Creek and Bokma Reservoir. Both the main outlet structure and an overflow structure will be screened to minimize escapement of stocked fish downstream.
YCT are a native salmonid to the Yellowstone River basin and would have historically been present at the confluence of the Yellowstone River and Keyser Creek, and potentially in Keyser Creek itself. YCT are currently not present in Keyser Creek likely due to unfavorable conditions in the creek, but may be present in low numbers at the confluence of the creek with the Yellowstone River. FWP would stock YCT when opportunity arises from excess production in the state fish hatchery.
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Public Comment Opportunity
Deadline: Comments are due by 5 p.m. on July 21, 2025
Written comments can be mailed to:
Montana FWP Region 5
Attn: Bryan Giordano
2300 Lake Elmo Drive
Billings, MT 59105
Emailed comments can be sent to bryan.giordano@mt.gov.