Fishing at East Loon, Minnesota
1,044-acre lake · Otter Tail County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, East Loon is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Otter Tail County. At 1,044 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 10 stocking events on record for East Loon:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,030 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,201 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,612 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 215 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 714 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,117 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,800 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 347 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 827 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in East Loon, 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 East Loon
For walleye, the best fishing on East Loon 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 East Loon:
- Sybil Lake — 1.8 mi (660 ac)
- Sybil — 2.0 mi (683 ac)
- East Spirit — 2.1 mi (561 ac)
- East Spirit Lake — 2.2 mi (530 ac)
- West Spirit Lake — 2.6 mi (254 ac)
- Hoffman — 3.2 mi (157 ac)
- Hook Lake — 3.4 mi (130 ac)
- West McDonald Lake — 3.7 mi (578 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at East Loon. 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 East Loon?
East Loon has been stocked with Walleye.
When was East Loon last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 2,500 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for East Loon?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.