Fishing at Orchard, Minnesota
238-acre lake · Dakota County · 2 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Orchard is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Dakota County. At 238 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 6 stocking events on record for Orchard:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 45,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Tiger Muskellunge | 200 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Tiger Muskellunge | 344 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Tiger Muskellunge | 323 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Tiger Muskellunge | 468 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Tiger Muskellunge | 468 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Orchard, 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 Orchard
For walleye, the best fishing on Orchard 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 Orchard:
- Orchard Lake — 0.0 mi (223 ac)
- Crystal — 2.5 mi (293 ac)
- Marion — 2.5 mi (530 ac)
- Cleary — 4.1 mi (145 ac)
- Cleary Lake — 4.1 mi (141 ac)
- Lower Prior — 5.4 mi (956 ac)
- Lower Prior Lake — 5.6 mi (882 ac)
- McMahon — 6.8 mi (187 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Orchard. 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 Orchard?
Orchard has been stocked with Walleye, Tiger Muskellunge.
When was Orchard last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 45,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Orchard?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.