Fishing at Elbow, Minnesota
188-acre lake · Otter Tail County · 1 species stocked
Stretching across 188 acres in Otter Tail County, Elbow is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its consistent fishery for its target species. 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 7 stocking events on record for Elbow:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 80,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,680 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Walleye | 328 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 17 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 100 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 585 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 542 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Elbow, 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 Elbow
For walleye, the best fishing on Elbow 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 Elbow:
- First Silver — 1.3 mi (529 ac)
- First Silver Lake — 1.4 mi (506 ac)
- Second Silver Lake — 1.9 mi (186 ac)
- South Turtle Lake — 2.2 mi (633 ac)
- South Turtle — 2.3 mi (837 ac)
- Third Silver Lake — 2.6 mi (123 ac)
- North Turtle Lake — 2.8 mi (1,492 ac)
- Fiske — 3.1 mi (254 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Elbow. 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 Elbow?
Elbow has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Elbow last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 80,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Elbow?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.