Fishing at Middle Leaf, Minnesota
404-acre lake · Otter Tail County · 1 species stocked
Middle Leaf sits at 0 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in Otter Tail County, Minnesota, covering 404 acres of lake water. The state stocked the lake most recently on January 01, 2024, with 181,000 Walleye averaging 0.0 inches. It's been an active stocking water since at least 0, and the recent records below tell you what's been planted and when.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 7 stocking events on record for Middle Leaf:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 181,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 100,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 181,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 181,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 400 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 181,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 398 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Middle Leaf, 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 Middle Leaf
For walleye, the best fishing on Middle Leaf 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 Middle Leaf:
- East Leaf Lake — 0.1 mi (397 ac)
- West Leaf — 2.0 mi (700 ac)
- West Leaf Lake — 2.0 mi (693 ac)
- Portage (main bay) — 3.8 mi (269 ac)
- Donalds Lake — 4.8 mi (156 ac)
- Gourd Lake — 4.8 mi (966 ac)
- Donalds — 4.9 mi (166 ac)
- Buchanan — 5.9 mi (964 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Middle Leaf. 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 Middle Leaf?
Middle Leaf has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Middle Leaf last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 181,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Middle Leaf?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.