Fishing at Ethel, Minnesota
191-acre lake · Otter Tail County · 2 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Ethel is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Otter Tail County. At 191 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 Ethel:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 69,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 69,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 69,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 69,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Yellow Perch | 500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 268 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Ethel, 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 Ethel
For walleye, the best fishing on Ethel 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 Ethel:
- Lake Ethel — 0.0 mi (188 ac)
- Lake Blanche — 1.7 mi (1,288 ac)
- Blanche — 1.8 mi (1,296 ac)
- Beauty Shore Lake — 2.6 mi (179 ac)
- Annie Battle — 2.7 mi (354 ac)
- Annie Battle Lake — 2.8 mi (342 ac)
- Otter Tail Lake — 3.3 mi (14,010 ac)
- West Mason Lake — 3.4 mi (276 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Ethel. 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 Ethel?
Ethel has been stocked with Walleye, Yellow Perch.
When was Ethel last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 69,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Ethel?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.