Fishing at Bartlett, Minnesota
304-acre lake · Koochiching County · 3 species stocked
Stretching across 304 acres in Koochiching County, Bartlett is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its consistent fishery for its target species. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 6 stocking events on record for Bartlett:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 292,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 220 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 292,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 292,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 300 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 345 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Bartlett, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Walleye lakes in Minnesota
- Top Black Crappie lakes in Minnesota
- Top Northern Pike lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Bartlett
For walleye, the best fishing on Bartlett 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 Bartlett:
- Bartlett Lake — 0.0 mi (284 ac)
- Battle Lake — 3.5 mi (260 ac)
- Battle — 3.5 mi (286 ac)
- Moose — 5.8 mi (412 ac)
- Shallow Pond Lake — 8.9 mi (202 ac)
- Shallow Pond — 9.0 mi (225 ac)
- Dark — 9.7 mi (120 ac)
- Dora Lake — 13.8 mi (625 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Bartlett. 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 Bartlett?
Bartlett has been stocked with Walleye, Black Crappie, Northern Pike.
When was Bartlett last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 292,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Bartlett?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.