Fishing at Cotton, Minnesota
1,763-acre lake · Becker County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Cotton is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Becker County. At 1,763 acres, it offers mid-sized 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 8 stocking events on record for Cotton:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 7,385 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 4,191 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,399 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 9,628 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,525 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 23,610 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 8,119 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,200 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Cotton, 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 Cotton
For walleye, the best fishing on Cotton 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 Cotton:
- Cotton Lake — 0.2 mi (1,766 ac)
- Pickerel — 1.5 mi (361 ac)
- North Tamarack — 3.5 mi (1,442 ac)
- Rock — 4.0 mi (1,196 ac)
- Height of Land — 4.3 mi (3,795 ac)
- Height of Land Lake — 4.7 mi (3,802 ac)
- Blackbird Lake — 5.8 mi (178 ac)
- Little Floyd — 6.4 mi (215 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Cotton. 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 Cotton?
Cotton has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Cotton last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 7,385 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Cotton?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.