Fishing at North Turtle, Minnesota
1,773-acre lake · Otter Tail County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, North Turtle is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Otter Tail County. At 1,773 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 5 stocking events on record for North Turtle:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 50,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,454,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,454,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,454,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,454,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in North Turtle, 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 North Turtle
For walleye, the best fishing on North Turtle 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 North Turtle:
- North Turtle Lake — 0.6 mi (1,492 ac)
- South Turtle Lake — 2.2 mi (633 ac)
- South Turtle — 2.2 mi (837 ac)
- Third Silver Lake — 3.0 mi (123 ac)
- Elbow — 3.4 mi (188 ac)
- Anna — 3.4 mi (598 ac)
- Fiske — 3.6 mi (254 ac)
- Fiske Lake — 3.6 mi (244 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at North Turtle. 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 North Turtle?
North Turtle has been stocked with Walleye.
When was North Turtle last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 50,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for North Turtle?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.