Fishing at Iron, Minnesota

122-acre lake · Cook County · 1 species stocked

If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Iron is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Cook County. At 122 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 1 stocking events on record for Iron:

Species You Can Catch

• 🐟 Walleye

Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota

If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Iron, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:

• Top Walleye lakes in Minnesota

Best Time to Fish Iron

For walleye, the best fishing on Iron 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:

• Portage — 0.7 mi (128 ac)
• Mayhew — 1.0 mi (221 ac)
• Rush — 1.7 mi (261 ac)
• Little Iron — 2.0 mi (115 ac)
• Skipper Lake — 2.1 mi (120 ac)
• Birch — 3.1 mi (236 ac)
• South — 3.2 mi (1,145 ac)
• North — 3.3 mi (2,349 ac)

Fishing Regulations

A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Iron. 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?

Iron has been stocked with Walleye.

When was Iron last stocked?

The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2016, when 2,508 walleye were planted.

Do I need a fishing license for Iron?

Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.