Fishing at Circle, Minnesota
838-acre lake · Rice County · 4 species stocked
Stretching across 838 acres in Rice County, Circle is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its mixed warmwater and coldwater fishery. 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 10 stocking events on record for Circle:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 326,992 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 300 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 758 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Largemouth Bass | 20 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 209,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 419,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 419,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 419,224 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 624,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 628,604 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Circle, 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
- Top Largemouth Bass lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Circle
For walleye, the best fishing on Circle 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 Circle:
- Fox — 1.9 mi (312 ac)
- Union — 3.5 mi (397 ac)
- Mazaska — 3.7 mi (688 ac)
- Mazaska Lake — 3.8 mi (668 ac)
- Dudley — 4.1 mi (128 ac)
- Dudley Lake — 4.2 mi (133 ac)
- Shields — 5.6 mi (940 ac)
- French — 5.6 mi (876 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Circle. 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 Circle?
Circle has been stocked with Walleye, Black Crappie, Bluegill Sunfish, Largemouth Bass.
When was Circle last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 326,992 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Circle?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.