Stocking Lake
Wadena County, Minnesota
Today's Fishing Forecast
Fishing looks to be fairly active with peak fishing times around 7-8 AM and 3-5 PM. SEE MORE
Share your catch!
We want to see what you've caught on Stocking Lake.Frequently Asked Questions About Stocking Lake, MN
- How big is Stocking Lake?
- How deep is Stocking Lake?
- What kind of fish can you catch in Stocking Lake?
- What are the closest cities to Stocking Lake?
- Are there places to stay in the Stocking Lake area?
- Are there boat launches on Stocking Lake?
- Are there places to eat and drink near Stocking Lake?
- What is the average air temp for Stocking Lake?
- Are there any state parks near Stocking Lake?
How big is Stocking Lake?
How deep is Stocking Lake?
What kind of fish can you catch in Stocking Lake?
Other fish species in the lake include Banded Killifish, Blacknose Shiner, Bluntnose Minnow, Brassy Minnow, Fathead Minnow, Golden Shiner, Hybrid Sunfish, Iowa Darter, Johnny Darter, Northern Redbelly Dace, Shorthead Redhorse and White Sucker.
What are the closest cities to Stocking Lake?
Are there places to stay in the Stocking Lake area?
More Lodging Options
Are there boat launches on Stocking Lake?
Are there places to eat and drink near Stocking Lake?
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What aquatic invasive species are found in Stocking Lake?
Join us in the fight to prevent the spread of invasive species These sneaky creatures can hitch a ride on boats, clinging onto propellers, anchor lines, and trailers. They can even survive in hidden places like bilge water and ballast tanks, or disguise themselves in dirt and sand that sticks to nets, buckets, anchors, and waders. But don't worry, we have the power to stop them in their tracks with just a few simple steps. So let's do our part and protect our waters from these unwanted invaders.
History & Status of the Fishery
Stocking Lake is located two miles east of Menahga in northern Wadena County. Stocking Lake is a shallow lake and has a surface area of 357 acres and a maximum depth of 22 feet. There is a state-owned public access located on the east shore of the lake. Stocking provides angling opportunities for Panfish, Northern Pike, and Walleye.
Since 1975, the Stocking Lake Association has operated two aeration systems to help prevent oxygen depletion and winterkill. Winter anglers should be aware of these open water areas that are maintained during the winter months.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has classified Minnesota's lakes into 43 different types based on physical, chemical, and other characteristics. Stocking is in lake class 39. Class 39 lakes are characterized as being shallow and have a large littoral area (water depth less than 15 feet). Other class 39 lakes in the Park Rapids management area include: First Crow Wing, Fourth Crow Wing, Portage, and Upper Twin.
Panfish are a popular choice for anglers on Stocking Lake. Panfish populations in Stocking Lake have fluctuated from low to high numbers over the years. Black Crappies were found in very high numbers in 2021, with most fish ranging in size from 7.5 - 9.5 inches in length. Bluegill were sampled in moderate numbers, with fish up to 8.5 inches in length. Pumpkinseed were also sampled in moderate numbers.
Anglers can expect to find an abundant Northern Pike population, with very few large pike. Northern Pike ranged from 12 - 28 inches in length and were spread evenly throughout this size range.
Walleye numbers were low, and below all but one past survey. All sampled Walleye were 11-15 inches in length. Yellow Perch, an important forage species for walleye, were sampled in good numbers. Sampled Yellow Perch were small for anglers, with most fish 5.5 - 8 inches.
Currently, no Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) have been identified in Stocking Lake. To avoid spreading AIS, lake users are required to remove all aquatic plants or animals from their watercraft and drain all water from their boats before leaving the access.
What is the average air temp for Stocking Lake?
Are there any state parks near Stocking Lake?
For more Minnesota State Park information see our State Park Guide.
More Nearby Lakes To Explore
There's more lake's to explore around Stocking Lake...| DISTANCE | ACRES | MAX DEPTH | |
| Blueberry Lake | 1.8 mi | 533 | 15 ft |
| Spirit Lake | 2.0 mi | 114 | 45 ft |
| Jim Cook Lake (west) | 2.6 mi | 54 | |
| Lower Twin Lake | 2.7 mi | 252 | 26 ft |
| Jim Cook Lake (east) | 3.0 mi | 49 | |
| Upper Twin Lake | 3.6 mi | 213 | 12 ft |
| Hinds Lake | 4.9 mi | 305 | 36 ft |
| Lord Lake | 4.9 mi | 62 | 32 ft |
| Unnamed Lake | 5.5 mi | 20 | |
| Unnamed Lake | 5.5 mi | 37 |
