Fishing at Ely, Minnesota
723-acre lake · St. Louis County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Ely is one of the most consistently productive lakes in St. Louis County. At 723 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 Ely:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 4,901 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 5,706 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 5,449 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 4,620 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Ely, 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 Ely
For walleye, the best fishing on Ely 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 Ely:
- Ely Lake — 0.1 mi (723 ac)
- St. Mary's — 2.1 mi (234 ac)
- Gilbert Pit — 2.2 mi (243 ac)
- Saint Marys Lake — 2.2 mi (243 ac)
- Pleasant Lake — 3.9 mi (342 ac)
- Pleasant — 3.9 mi (335 ac)
- Half Moon — 4.8 mi (162 ac)
- Half Moon Lake — 4.8 mi (163 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Ely. 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 Ely?
Ely has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Ely last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 4,901 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Ely?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.