Fishing at Shaokotan, Minnesota
996-acre lake · Lincoln County · 2 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Shaokotan is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Lincoln County. At 996 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 6 stocking events on record for Shaokotan:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 497,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 497,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 497,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 4,326 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 992,156 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Bluegill Sunfish | 1,800 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Shaokotan, 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 Shaokotan
For walleye, the best fishing on Shaokotan 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 Shaokotan:
- Shaokotan Lake — 0.1 mi (960 ac)
- Ash Lake — 3.5 mi (140 ac)
- Lake Hendricks — 7.8 mi (1,524 ac)
- Hendricks — 8.1 mi (1,522 ac)
- Perch — 8.3 mi (246 ac)
- Hawksnest — 9.1 mi (299 ac)
- Hawks Nest Lake — 9.1 mi (260 ac)
- Steep Bank — 9.4 mi (198 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Shaokotan. 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 Shaokotan?
Shaokotan has been stocked with Walleye, Bluegill Sunfish.
When was Shaokotan last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 497,500 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Shaokotan?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.