Fishing at Pickeral, Minnesota
588-acre lake · Freeborn County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Pickeral is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Freeborn County. At 588 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 3 stocking events on record for Pickeral:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 113,458 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 117,571 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 80,892 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Northern Pike in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Pickeral, 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 Pickeral
For northern pike, the best fishing on Pickeral 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 Pickeral:
- White — 2.2 mi (168 ac)
- Fountain — 2.8 mi (522 ac)
- Albert Lea — 4.4 mi (2,669 ac)
- Albert Lea Lake — 4.9 mi (2,609 ac)
- Bear — 7.5 mi (1,033 ac)
- State Line Lake — 9.0 mi (372 ac)
- State Line — 9.1 mi (372 ac)
- Silver Lake — 10.2 mi (312 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Pickeral. 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 Pickeral?
Pickeral has been stocked with Northern Pike.
When was Pickeral last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 113,458 northern pike were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Pickeral?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.