Fishing at First Silver, Minnesota
529-acre lake · Otter Tail County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, First Silver is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Otter Tail County. At 529 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 10 stocking events on record for First Silver:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 6,047 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 124 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,700 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 13,614 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 586 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,800 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,457 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 5,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 9,598 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 84 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in First Silver, 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 First Silver
For walleye, the best fishing on First Silver 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 First Silver:
- First Silver Lake — 0.1 mi (506 ac)
- Second Silver Lake — 1.2 mi (186 ac)
- Elbow — 1.3 mi (188 ac)
- Third Silver Lake — 2.3 mi (123 ac)
- Molly Stark Lake — 2.8 mi (143 ac)
- Molly Stark — 2.8 mi (152 ac)
- South Turtle Lake — 3.4 mi (633 ac)
- Annie Battle Lake — 3.5 mi (342 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at First Silver. 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 First Silver?
First Silver has been stocked with Walleye.
When was First Silver last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 6,047 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for First Silver?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.