Fishing at Iron Chief Complex, Minnesota
207-acre lake · St. Louis County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Iron Chief Complex is one of the most consistently productive lakes in St. Louis County. At 207 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 8 stocking events on record for Iron Chief Complex:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 1,150 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 1,240 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 650 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 4,091 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 108 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 398 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 1,095 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 106 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Lake Trout in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Iron Chief Complex, 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 Iron Chief Complex
For lake trout, the best fishing on Iron Chief Complex 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 Iron Chief Complex:
- Longyear — 4.2 mi (151 ac)
- McQuade Lake — 5.7 mi (169 ac)
- McQuade — 5.7 mi (173 ac)
- Carey Lake — 6.1 mi (141 ac)
- Carey — 6.1 mi (145 ac)
- West Two Rivers Reservoir — 6.1 mi (967 ac)
- Mashkenode Lake — 8.8 mi (123 ac)
- Mashkenode — 8.9 mi (128 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Iron Chief Complex. 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 Iron Chief Complex?
Iron Chief Complex has been stocked with Lake Trout.
When was Iron Chief Complex last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 1,150 lake trout were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Iron Chief Complex?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.