Fishing at Leech, Minnesota
103,444-acre lake · Cass County · 2 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Leech is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Cass County. At 103,444 acres, it offers big-water 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 5 stocking events on record for Leech:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Lake Whitefish | 29,884 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Muskellunge | 600 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Muskellunge | 112,878 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Muskellunge | 603 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Lake Whitefish | 128,030 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Lake Whitefish in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Leech, 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 Leech
For lake whitefish, the best fishing on Leech 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 Leech:
- Leech Lake — 1.3 mi (102,504 ac)
- Welsh Lake — 7.9 mi (186 ac)
- Welch — 7.9 mi (196 ac)
- Lake May — 9.3 mi (124 ac)
- May — 9.3 mi (143 ac)
- Lake Thirteen — 9.5 mi (542 ac)
- Thirteen — 9.5 mi (555 ac)
- Swamp — 9.9 mi (600 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Leech. 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 Leech?
Leech has been stocked with Lake Whitefish, Muskellunge.
When was Leech last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 29,884 lake whitefish were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Leech?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.