Fishing at Linka, Minnesota
178-acre lake · Pope County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Linka is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Pope County. At 178 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 7 stocking events on record for Linka:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 344 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 72 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,150 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 568 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 102 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 123 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 214 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Linka, 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 Linka
For walleye, the best fishing on Linka 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 Linka:
- Lake Linka — 0.1 mi (173 ac)
- Gilchrist — 1.0 mi (336 ac)
- Lake Hanson — 2.2 mi (182 ac)
- Scandinavian — 2.7 mi (417 ac)
- Scandinavian Lake — 2.8 mi (406 ac)
- Goose — 3.7 mi (324 ac)
- Swenoda Lake — 4.1 mi (290 ac)
- Lake Ben — 4.3 mi (329 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Linka. 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 Linka?
Linka has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Linka last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 344 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Linka?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.