Fishing at Hanks, Minnesota
165-acre lake · Crow Wing County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Hanks is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Crow Wing County. At 165 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 3 stocking events on record for Hanks:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 612 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 603 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 525 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Hanks, 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 Hanks
For walleye, the best fishing on Hanks 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 Hanks:
- Crooked — 1.0 mi (463 ac)
- Scott — 2.3 mi (157 ac)
- Clearwater — 2.7 mi (905 ac)
- Miller — 3.0 mi (132 ac)
- Bay — 3.1 mi (2,330 ac)
- Partridge — 3.2 mi (188 ac)
- Nokay — 3.2 mi (704 ac)
- Nokay Lake — 3.3 mi (699 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Hanks. 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 Hanks?
Hanks has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Hanks last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2021, when 612 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Hanks?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.