Fishing at Benton, Minnesota
2,699-acre lake · Lincoln County · 3 species stocked
Benton sits at 0 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in Lincoln County, Minnesota, covering 2,699 acres of lake water. The state stocked the lake most recently on January 01, 2024, with 1,428,500 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 7 stocking events on record for Benton:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,428,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,428,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,428,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 200 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 400 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,470,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,531,345 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Benton, 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 Bluegill Sunfish lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Benton
For walleye, the best fishing on Benton 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 Benton:
- Lake Benton — 0.4 mi (2,670 ac)
- Stay — 8.0 mi (221 ac)
- Lake Stay — 8.0 mi (209 ac)
- Dead Coon Lake — 8.8 mi (527 ac)
- Dead Coon (Main Lake) — 8.9 mi (547 ac)
- Ash Lake — 9.7 mi (140 ac)
- Shaokotan Lake — 10.0 mi (960 ac)
- Shaokotan — 10.0 mi (996 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Benton. 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 Benton?
Benton has been stocked with Walleye, Black Crappie, Bluegill Sunfish.
When was Benton last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 1,428,500 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Benton?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.