Fishing at Cokato, Minnesota
553-acre lake · Wright County · 4 species stocked
Stretching across 553 acres in Wright County, Cokato 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 Cokato:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 92,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,987 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 15,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 50,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Yellow Perch | 500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 184,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 50,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 900 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 2,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 500 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Cokato, 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 Bluegill Sunfish lakes in Minnesota
- Top Yellow Perch lakes in Minnesota
- Top Black Crappie lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Cokato
For walleye, the best fishing on Cokato 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 Cokato:
- Cokato Lake — 0.0 mi (543 ac)
- Smith — 3.1 mi (244 ac)
- Camp — 5.1 mi (123 ac)
- Howard — 5.5 mi (745 ac)
- Granite Lake — 5.8 mi (357 ac)
- Big Swan — 5.8 mi (684 ac)
- Granite — 5.9 mi (362 ac)
- Collinwood — 5.9 mi (639 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Cokato. 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 Cokato?
Cokato has been stocked with Walleye, Bluegill Sunfish, Yellow Perch, Black Crappie.
When was Cokato last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 92,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Cokato?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.