Fishing at Orwell, Minnesota
608-acre lake · Otter Tail County · 1 species stocked
Stretching across 608 acres in Otter Tail County, Orwell is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its consistent fishery for its target species. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 8 stocking events on record for Orwell:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,726,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 926,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 626,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,000,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 5,000,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,331,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,000,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,000,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Orwell, 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 Orwell
For walleye, the best fishing on Orwell 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 Orwell:
- Dayton Hollow Reservoir — 2.5 mi (227 ac)
- Dayton Hollow Reservoir — 2.7 mi (254 ac)
- Upper Lightning Lake — 5.9 mi (509 ac)
- Pebble — 6.2 mi (195 ac)
- Pebble Lake — 6.3 mi (170 ac)
- Chautauqua Lake — 6.9 mi (229 ac)
- Swan — 7.2 mi (749 ac)
- Hoot Lake — 8.4 mi (164 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Orwell. 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 Orwell?
Orwell has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Orwell last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 1,726,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Orwell?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.