Fishing at Dark, Minnesota
120-acre lake · Koochiching County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Dark is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Koochiching County. At 120 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 6 stocking events on record for Dark:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,050 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,170 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,340 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Walleye | 4,200 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,780 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,486 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Dark, 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 Dark
For walleye, the best fishing on Dark 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 Dark:
- Moose — 9.3 mi (412 ac)
- Bartlett — 9.7 mi (304 ac)
- Bartlett Lake — 9.7 mi (284 ac)
- Battle Lake — 12.8 mi (260 ac)
- Battle — 12.8 mi (286 ac)
- Dora — 15.0 mi (423 ac)
- Dora Lake — 15.1 mi (625 ac)
- Clear — 15.2 mi (140 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Dark. 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 Dark?
Dark has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Dark last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 1,050 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Dark?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.