Fishing at West Leaf, Minnesota
700-acre lake · Otter Tail County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, West Leaf is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Otter Tail County. At 700 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 West Leaf:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 256,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 100,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 256,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 256,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 256,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 184 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 768 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in West Leaf, 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 Leaf
For walleye, the best fishing on West Leaf 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 Leaf:
- West Leaf Lake — 0.1 mi (693 ac)
- East Leaf Lake — 1.8 mi (397 ac)
- Portage (main bay) — 1.9 mi (269 ac)
- Middle Leaf — 2.0 mi (404 ac)
- Donalds Lake — 2.9 mi (156 ac)
- Donalds — 3.0 mi (166 ac)
- Gourd Lake — 3.3 mi (966 ac)
- Buchanan — 4.1 mi (964 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at West Leaf. 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 Leaf?
West Leaf has been stocked with Walleye.
When was West Leaf last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 256,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for West Leaf?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.