Fishing at Leif, Minnesota
521-acre lake · Becker County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Leif is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Becker County. At 521 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 10 stocking events on record for Leif:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 360 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 7,419 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,123 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 190 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 11,132 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 962 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 280 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 422 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 198 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 168 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Leif, 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 Leif
For walleye, the best fishing on Leif 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 Leif:
- Little Cormorant Lake — 1.2 mi (499 ac)
- Little Cormorant — 1.5 mi (1,067 ac)
- Big Cormorant — 2.4 mi (3,657 ac)
- Engebretson Lake — 2.4 mi (123 ac)
- Big Cormorant Lake — 2.5 mi (3,518 ac)
- Marshall — 2.9 mi (190 ac)
- Forget-me-not Lake — 3.1 mi (316 ac)
- Rossman — 3.5 mi (273 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Leif. 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 Leif?
Leif has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Leif last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 360 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Leif?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.