Fishing at Upper Hay, Minnesota
596-acre lake · Crow Wing County · 1 species stocked
Upper Hay sits at 0 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in Crow Wing County, Minnesota, covering 596 acres of lake water. The state stocked the lake most recently on January 01, 2024, with 184,000 Walleye averaging 0.0 inches. It's been an active stocking water since at least 0, and the recent records below tell you what's been planted and when.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 8 stocking events on record for Upper Hay:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 184,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 184,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 184,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 184,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 184,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 184,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 200,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 184,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Upper Hay, 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 Upper Hay
For walleye, the best fishing on Upper Hay 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 Upper Hay:
- Upper Hay Lake — 0.0 mi (596 ac)
- Lower Hay — 2.0 mi (700 ac)
- Bertha — 2.7 mi (337 ac)
- Clear — 3.3 mi (226 ac)
- Sibley — 3.6 mi (444 ac)
- Clamshell — 3.8 mi (211 ac)
- Sibley Lake — 4.2 mi (623 ac)
- Kimball — 4.8 mi (190 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Upper Hay. 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 Upper Hay?
Upper Hay has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Upper Hay last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 184,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Upper Hay?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.