Fishing at Richardson, Minnesota
119-acre lake · Meeker County · 3 species stocked
Stretching across 119 acres in Meeker County, Richardson 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 9 stocking events on record for Richardson:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 23,523 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 27 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Largemouth Bass | 18 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 23,302 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 22,834 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 710 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 466 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 144 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 720 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Richardson, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Walleye lakes in Minnesota
- Top Bluegill Sunfish lakes in Minnesota
- Top Largemouth Bass lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Richardson
For walleye, the best fishing on Richardson 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 Richardson:
- Dunns Lake — 0.6 mi (154 ac)
- Dunns — 0.6 mi (152 ac)
- Lake Andrew Nelson — 5.1 mi (113 ac)
- Lake Darwin — 5.4 mi (163 ac)
- East Lake Ripley — 6.0 mi (130 ac)
- Lake Ripley — 6.1 mi (580 ac)
- Ripley (west portion) — 6.2 mi (614 ac)
- Round — 6.3 mi (266 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Richardson. 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 Richardson?
Richardson has been stocked with Walleye, Bluegill Sunfish, Largemouth Bass.
When was Richardson last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 23,523 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Richardson?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.