Fishing at Nels, Minnesota
182-acre lake · St. Louis County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Nels is one of the most consistently productive lakes in St. Louis County. At 182 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 5 stocking events on record for Nels:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 44,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 44,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 44,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 44,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 99,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Nels, 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 Nels
For walleye, the best fishing on Nels 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 Nels:
- Nels Lake — 0.3 mi (195 ac)
- South Hegman Lake — 1.4 mi (121 ac)
- South Hegman — 1.4 mi (118 ac)
- Grassy — 2.2 mi (257 ac)
- Fenske Lake — 2.4 mi (119 ac)
- Everett — 3.1 mi (113 ac)
- High — 3.7 mi (274 ac)
- Slim — 3.8 mi (312 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Nels. 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 Nels?
Nels has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Nels last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 44,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Nels?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.