Fishing at Rush Island, Minnesota
297-acre lake · Itasca County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Rush Island is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Itasca County. At 297 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 Rush Island:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 99,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 99,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 109,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Rush Island, 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 Rush Island
For walleye, the best fishing on Rush Island 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 Rush Island:
- Rush Island Lake — 0.1 mi (283 ac)
- Mushgee Lake — 1.5 mi (143 ac)
- Portage — 3.0 mi (715 ac)
- Little Whitefish Lake — 3.3 mi (150 ac)
- Little Whitefish — 3.3 mi (160 ac)
- Little Sand — 3.5 mi (353 ac)
- Whitefish — 4.1 mi (564 ac)
- Four Town Lake — 4.2 mi (254 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Rush Island. 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 Rush Island?
Rush Island has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Rush Island last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2021, when 99,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Rush Island?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.