Fishing at Gilbert, Minnesota
202-acre lake · Douglas County · 5 species stocked
Stretching across 202 acres in Douglas County, Gilbert is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its mixed warmwater and coldwater fishery. 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 10 stocking events on record for Gilbert:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 68 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 40 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Largemouth Bass | 40 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 190,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 190,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Yellow Perch | 900 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 190,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Largemouth Bass | 43 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 55 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 55 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Black Crappie in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Gilbert, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Black Crappie lakes in Minnesota
- Top Bluegill Sunfish lakes in Minnesota
- Top Largemouth Bass lakes in Minnesota
- Top Walleye lakes in Minnesota
- Top Yellow Perch lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Gilbert
For black crappie, the best fishing on Gilbert 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 Gilbert:
- Crooked — 1.6 mi (284 ac)
- Lobster Lake — 2.1 mi (1,362 ac)
- Lobster — 2.1 mi (1,334 ac)
- Lake Thorstad — 2.7 mi (177 ac)
- Mill — 2.9 mi (451 ac)
- Blackwell — 4.1 mi (307 ac)
- Blackwell Lake — 4.1 mi (295 ac)
- Grant Lake — 4.1 mi (171 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Gilbert. 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 Gilbert?
Gilbert has been stocked with Black Crappie, Bluegill Sunfish, Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Yellow Perch.
When was Gilbert last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 68 black crappie were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Gilbert?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.