Fishing at Pepin, Minnesota
403-acre lake · Le Sueur County · 1 species stocked
Stretching across 403 acres in Le Sueur County, Pepin 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 6 stocking events on record for Pepin:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 744,545 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,007,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,007,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,007,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,467,285 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,014,741 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Pepin, 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 Pepin
For walleye, the best fishing on Pepin 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 Pepin:
- Lake Sanborn — 2.4 mi (352 ac)
- Tietz Lake — 3.0 mi (118 ac)
- Phelps — 4.8 mi (303 ac)
- Phelps Lake — 4.8 mi (294 ac)
- Cody Lake — 4.9 mi (234 ac)
- Cody — 4.9 mi (259 ac)
- Greenleaf — 5.5 mi (302 ac)
- Clear — 5.7 mi (279 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Pepin. 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 Pepin?
Pepin has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Pepin last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 744,545 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Pepin?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.