Fishing at Winchester, Minnesota
319-acre lake · St. Louis County · 2 species stocked
Stretching across 319 acres in St. Louis County, Winchester is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its consistent fishery for its target species. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 4 stocking events on record for Winchester:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Splake | 2,715 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Splake | 2,658 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 3,550 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 4,431 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Splake in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Winchester, 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 Winchester
For splake, the best fishing on Winchester 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 Winchester:
- Winchester Lake — 0.0 mi (328 ac)
- Elbow — 4.4 mi (1,695 ac)
- Ban Lake — 4.6 mi (402 ac)
- Ban — 4.7 mi (389 ac)
- Vermilion River — 5.2 mi (1,071 ac)
- Kjostad — 5.4 mi (437 ac)
- Kjostad Lake — 5.5 mi (447 ac)
- Susan — 6.0 mi (276 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Winchester. 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 Winchester?
Winchester has been stocked with Splake, Lake Trout.
When was Winchester last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 2,715 splake were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Winchester?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.