Fishing at Madison, Minnesota
1,447-acre lake · Blue Earth County · 2 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Madison is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Blue Earth County. At 1,447 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 9 stocking events on record for Madison:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 361,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 100,623 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,446,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,435,460 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 106,050 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 100,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,446,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 100,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,452,292 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Madison, 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 Madison
For walleye, the best fishing on Madison 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 Madison:
- Madison Lake — 0.2 mi (1,320 ac)
- Duck — 2.3 mi (290 ac)
- Ballantyne — 2.4 mi (371 ac)
- Ballantyne Lake — 2.5 mi (360 ac)
- Gilfillin Lake — 2.6 mi (130 ac)
- Eagle Lake 0 839 — 4.4 mi (246 ac)
- Eagle — 4.6 mi (898 ac)
- Frances — 5.2 mi (927 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Madison. 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 Madison?
Madison has been stocked with Walleye, Northern Pike.
When was Madison last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 361,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Madison?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.