Fishing at Otter, Minnesota
302-acre lake · Anoka County · 4 species stocked
Stretching across 302 acres in Anoka County, Otter is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its mixed warmwater and coldwater fishery. 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 6 stocking events on record for Otter:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Black Crappie | 1,419 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Largemouth Bass | 48 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,000,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Iod | 500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Largemouth Bass | 52 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 300,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Black Crappie in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Otter, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Black Crappie lakes in Minnesota
- Top Largemouth Bass lakes in Minnesota
- Top Walleye lakes in Minnesota
- Top Iod lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Otter
For black crappie, the best fishing on Otter 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 Otter:
- Amelia Lake — 0.8 mi (124 ac)
- Bald Eagle Lake — 1.2 mi (993 ac)
- Bald Eagle — 1.3 mi (1,049 ac)
- Centerville Lake — 3.0 mi (445 ac)
- Centerville — 3.1 mi (474 ac)
- Reshanau Lake — 3.5 mi (294 ac)
- Pleasant — 3.5 mi (607 ac)
- Reshanau — 3.5 mi (336 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Otter. 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 Otter?
Otter has been stocked with Black Crappie, Largemouth Bass, Walleye, Iod.
When was Otter last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 1,419 black crappie were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Otter?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.