Fishing at Cleary, Minnesota
145-acre lake · Scott County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Cleary is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Scott County. At 145 acres, it offers small lake fishing across specialized habitat — exactly the kind of water that rewards anglers who pay attention to stocking schedules and seasonal patterns.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 2 stocking events on record for Cleary:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 500,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 500,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Cleary, 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 Cleary
For walleye, the best fishing on Cleary 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 Cleary:
- Cleary Lake — 0.0 mi (141 ac)
- Lower Prior Lake — 2.9 mi (882 ac)
- Lower Prior — 2.9 mi (956 ac)
- Upper Prior — 3.2 mi (386 ac)
- Upper Prior Lake — 3.2 mi (411 ac)
- Spring — 4.0 mi (592 ac)
- Orchard — 4.1 mi (238 ac)
- Orchard Lake — 4.1 mi (223 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Cleary. 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 Cleary?
Cleary has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Cleary last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 500,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Cleary?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.