Fishing at Gilstad, Minnesota
257-acre lake · Beltrami County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Gilstad is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Beltrami County. At 257 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 Gilstad:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,876 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,904 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 4,560 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,541 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 95 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 216 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Gilstad, 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 Gilstad
For walleye, the best fishing on Gilstad 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 Gilstad:
- Gilstad Lake — 0.0 mi (252 ac)
- Rabideau — 2.2 mi (680 ac)
- Rabideau Lake — 2.3 mi (662 ac)
- Dutchman Lake — 4.4 mi (172 ac)
- Rice Pond — 4.5 mi (161 ac)
- Blackduck — 5.9 mi (2,711 ac)
- North Twin — 6.1 mi (326 ac)
- Decker Lake — 6.3 mi (317 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Gilstad. 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 Gilstad?
Gilstad has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Gilstad last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 2,876 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Gilstad?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.