Fishing at Scotch, Minnesota
598-acre lake · Le Sueur County · 3 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Scotch is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Le Sueur County. At 598 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 8 stocking events on record for Scotch:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 141,250 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 141,250 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 595,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 595,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 595,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Yellow Perch | 626 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 207 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 276,381 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Scotch, 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 Yellow Perch lakes in Minnesota
- Top Northern Pike lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Scotch
For walleye, the best fishing on Scotch 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 Scotch:
- Scotch Lake — 0.1 mi (583 ac)
- Middle Jefferson — 2.9 mi (667 ac)
- Lake Jefferson — 2.9 mi (645 ac)
- West Jefferson — 3.2 mi (439 ac)
- Savidge Lake — 3.2 mi (152 ac)
- Bossuot Lake — 3.7 mi (151 ac)
- East Jefferson — 3.7 mi (685 ac)
- Swede's Bay — 4.2 mi (507 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Scotch. 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 Scotch?
Scotch has been stocked with Walleye, Yellow Perch, Northern Pike.
When was Scotch last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 141,250 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Scotch?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.