Fishing at Villard, Minnesota
544-acre lake · Pope County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Villard is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Pope County. At 544 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 5 stocking events on record for Villard:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 271,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 541,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 541,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 550,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 600,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Villard, 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 Villard
For walleye, the best fishing on Villard 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 Villard:
- Villard Lake — 0.1 mi (529 ac)
- Leven — 1.3 mi (282 ac)
- Leven Lake — 1.4 mi (284 ac)
- Amelia — 1.8 mi (934 ac)
- Westport Lake — 4.2 mi (198 ac)
- Westport — 4.2 mi (203 ac)
- Alice Lake — 4.8 mi (120 ac)
- Maple — 6.0 mi (831 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Villard. 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 Villard?
Villard has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Villard last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 271,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Villard?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.