Fishing at Rat, Minnesota
431-acre lake · Aitkin County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Rat is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Aitkin County. At 431 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 5 stocking events on record for Rat:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 195,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 195,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 195,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 195,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 195,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Rat, 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 Rat
For walleye, the best fishing on Rat 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 Rat:
- Sandy River Lake — 2.2 mi (1,337 ac)
- Lake Minnewawa — 4.0 mi (2,317 ac)
- Big Sandy — 4.3 mi (6,125 ac)
- Minnewawa — 4.3 mi (2,351 ac)
- Aitkin Lake — 4.4 mi (7,283 ac)
- Round — 5.1 mi (185 ac)
- Aitkin — 6.5 mi (659 ac)
- Rock — 6.5 mi (341 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Rat. 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 Rat?
Rat has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Rat last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 195,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Rat?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.