Fishing at Lower Elk, Minnesota
131-acre lake · Grant County · 5 species stocked
Stretching across 131 acres in Grant County, Lower Elk is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its mixed warmwater and coldwater fishery. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 9 stocking events on record for Lower Elk:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 131,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 131,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 131,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Yellow Perch | 51 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Largemouth Bass | 15 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 40 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 19 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 100,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 31,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Lower Elk, 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
- Top Yellow Perch lakes in Minnesota
- Top Largemouth Bass lakes in Minnesota
- Top Bluegill Sunfish lakes in Minnesota
- Top Black Crappie lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Lower Elk
For walleye, the best fishing on Lower Elk 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 Lower Elk:
- Lower Elk Lake — 0.0 mi (127 ac)
- Elk — 1.1 mi (207 ac)
- Ellingson Lake — 2.2 mi (195 ac)
- Hjermenrud Lake — 2.9 mi (146 ac)
- Red Rock — 3.4 mi (904 ac)
- Red Rock Lake — 3.5 mi (742 ac)
- Thompson — 3.6 mi (154 ac)
- Eng Lake — 5.7 mi (158 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Lower Elk. 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 Lower Elk?
Lower Elk has been stocked with Walleye, Yellow Perch, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill Sunfish, Black Crappie.
When was Lower Elk last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 131,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Lower Elk?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.