Fishing at East Spirit, Minnesota
561-acre lake · Otter Tail County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, East Spirit is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Otter Tail County. At 561 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 4 stocking events on record for East Spirit:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 246,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 246,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 246,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 246,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in East Spirit, 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 Spirit
For walleye, the best fishing on East Spirit 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 Spirit:
- East Spirit Lake — 0.1 mi (530 ac)
- West Spirit Lake — 1.1 mi (254 ac)
- East Loon — 2.1 mi (1,044 ac)
- Hoffman — 3.3 mi (157 ac)
- Hook Lake — 3.4 mi (130 ac)
- Sybil Lake — 3.6 mi (660 ac)
- Sybil — 3.8 mi (683 ac)
- West McDonald Lake — 3.9 mi (578 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at East Spirit. 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 Spirit?
East Spirit has been stocked with Walleye.
When was East Spirit last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 246,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for East Spirit?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.