Fishing at Nichols, Minnesota
419-acre lake · St. Louis County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Nichols is one of the most consistently productive lakes in St. Louis County. At 419 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 4 stocking events on record for Nichols:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 8,298 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 12,308 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 8,670 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 7,235 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Nichols, 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 Nichols
For walleye, the best fishing on Nichols 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 Nichols:
- Nichols Lake — 0.1 mi (412 ac)
- Leora — 6.4 mi (263 ac)
- Leora Lake — 6.4 mi (252 ac)
- Strand Lake — 7.1 mi (313 ac)
- Strand — 7.1 mi (330 ac)
- Artichoke Lake — 7.4 mi (272 ac)
- Aerie Lake — 7.8 mi (147 ac)
- Aerie — 7.9 mi (146 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Nichols. 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 Nichols?
Nichols has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Nichols last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 8,298 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Nichols?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.