Fishing at Irene, Minnesota
639-acre lake · Douglas County · 1 species stocked
Stretching across 639 acres in Douglas County, Irene is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its consistent fishery for its target species. 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 9 stocking events on record for Irene:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 14,400 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 8,360 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 740 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Walleye | 6,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 10,080 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 900 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 16,939 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 6,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Irene, 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 Irene
For walleye, the best fishing on Irene 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 Irene:
- Lake Miltona — 3.4 mi (5,751 ac)
- Miltona — 3.6 mi (5,731 ac)
- Vermont Lake — 3.7 mi (291 ac)
- Vermont — 3.8 mi (342 ac)
- Lake Adley — 5.3 mi (202 ac)
- Adley — 5.3 mi (241 ac)
- Carlos — 7.1 mi (2,605 ac)
- Lake Carlos — 7.2 mi (2,572 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Irene. 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 Irene?
Irene has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Irene last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 14,400 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Irene?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.