Fishing at Gilchrist, Minnesota
336-acre lake · Pope County · 1 species stocked
Gilchrist sits at 0 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in Pope County, Minnesota, covering 336 acres of lake water. The state stocked the lake most recently on January 01, 2024, with 105,000 Walleye averaging 0.0 inches. It's been an active stocking water since at least 0, and the recent records below tell you what's been planted and when.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 8 stocking events on record for Gilchrist:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 105,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 209,330 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 209,330 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 209,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 24 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,985 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 58 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 6,080 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Gilchrist, 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 Gilchrist
For walleye, the best fishing on Gilchrist 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 Gilchrist:
- Lake Linka — 0.9 mi (173 ac)
- Linka — 1.0 mi (178 ac)
- Scandinavian — 1.9 mi (417 ac)
- Scandinavian Lake — 1.9 mi (406 ac)
- Lake Hanson — 2.3 mi (182 ac)
- Goose — 2.9 mi (324 ac)
- Lake Simon — 4.4 mi (549 ac)
- Swenoda Lake — 5.0 mi (290 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Gilchrist. 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 Gilchrist?
Gilchrist has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Gilchrist last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 105,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Gilchrist?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.