Fishing at Itasca, Minnesota
1,065-acre lake · Clearwater County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Itasca is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Clearwater County. At 1,065 acres, it offers mid-sized 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 4 stocking events on record for Itasca:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 229,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 454,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 454,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 450,900 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Itasca, 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 Itasca
For walleye, the best fishing on Itasca 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 Itasca:
- West Arm Lake Itasca — 0.3 mi (994 ac)
- Elk — 2.1 mi (303 ac)
- Elk Lake — 2.1 mi (279 ac)
- Ozawindib — 3.5 mi (159 ac)
- Ozawindib Lake — 3.5 mi (166 ac)
- Hernando DeSoto — 5.0 mi (171 ac)
- Big LaSalle Lake — 5.5 mi (213 ac)
- Big LaSalle — 5.5 mi (235 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Itasca. 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 Itasca?
Itasca has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Itasca last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 229,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Itasca?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.