Fishing at Horseman Flats Lake, Stillwater County, Montana

• Overview

  Stillwater County in Montana is where Horseman Flats Lake sits. It sits at 5,492 feet above sea level. At roughly 2 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. Most waters listed here for Stillwater County are larger. 22 miles away sits Absarokee, the nearest town. After that come Big Timber at 29 miles and Columbus at 34 miles. The nearest edge is a long way off, so local rules apply throughout.

• Where to Fish on Horseman Flats Lake

  Without a survey to go on, judge depth from how the bank falls away. Weed, then depth: that is the order to fish a water of this kind. Where the bottom changes texture, fish gather; find that line. Records held for Stillwater County cover rainbow trout, california golden trout, brown trout, brook trout and black crappie. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. On Horseman Flats Lake a short move beats a long cast.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warm month here averages 60°F; the cold one sits at 25°F. The freeze here is occasional rather than annual. It should never be assumed safe, whatever the month says. Late winter often fishes better here than midsummer does. On Horseman Flats Lake the same rules apply, with local timing.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. Nothing built is recorded close to the bank here. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. Some banks are open only from a marked point. A polite question at the farm gate opens more banks than anything else. Failing this one, try Zoeteman Lake, 0.6 miles away. For Horseman Flats Lake in particular, ask before you travel.