Fishing at West Jefferson, Minnesota
439-acre lake · Le Sueur County · 2 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, West Jefferson is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Le Sueur County. At 439 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 10 stocking events on record for West Jefferson:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 87,121 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 25,370 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 87,250 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 87,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 23,309 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 87,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 349,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 25,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 349,325 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 55,426 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in West Jefferson, 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 West Jefferson
For walleye, the best fishing on West Jefferson 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 West Jefferson:
- Lake Jefferson — 1.7 mi (645 ac)
- Middle Jefferson — 1.7 mi (667 ac)
- Washington — 2.7 mi (1,516 ac)
- Swede's Bay — 2.8 mi (507 ac)
- Scotch Lake — 3.2 mi (583 ac)
- Scotch — 3.2 mi (598 ac)
- East Jefferson — 3.3 mi (685 ac)
- Duck — 4.0 mi (290 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at West Jefferson. 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 West Jefferson?
West Jefferson has been stocked with Walleye, Northern Pike.
When was West Jefferson last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 87,121 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for West Jefferson?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.