Fishing at Badger, Minnesota
256-acre lake · Polk County · 2 species stocked
Badger sits at 0 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in Polk County, Minnesota, covering 256 acres of lake water. The state stocked the lake most recently on January 01, 2024, with 259,983 Walleye averaging 0.0 inches. It's been an active stocking water since at least 0, and the recent records below tell you what's been planted and when.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 9 stocking events on record for Badger:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 259,983 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 100 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 260,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 260,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 260,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 260,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 260,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 325,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 260,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Badger, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
Best Time to Fish Badger
For walleye, the best fishing on Badger is typically in spring and fall, when surface temperatures fall in the 55–70°F range. That window matches the active feeding period for the species and aligns with lake thermal turnover, putting fish in predictable depths and structure. Check the recent stocking dates above — fish are easiest to locate in the first two to four weeks after a planting.
Nearby Lakes
Other stocked waters within ~75 miles of Badger:
- Cameron — 1.1 mi (225 ac)
- Bee Lake — 2.3 mi (115 ac)
- Sarah — 4.8 mi (366 ac)
- Crystal — 5.5 mi (118 ac)
- Cable — 7.5 mi (194 ac)
- Union — 7.5 mi (887 ac)
- Maple — 7.5 mi (1,641 ac)
- Maltrud Lake — 9.1 mi (117 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Badger. Buy one online and check current regulations at the Minnesota DNR. Always confirm seasonal closures, size limits, and creel limits before fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fish are stocked in Badger?
Badger has been stocked with Walleye, Bluegill Sunfish.
When was Badger last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 259,983 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Badger?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.