Fishing at Winter, Minnesota
117-acre lake · Becker County · 1 species stocked
Stretching across 117 acres in Becker County, Winter 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 2 stocking events on record for Winter:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 100,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 100,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Winter, 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 Winter
For walleye, the best fishing on Winter 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 Winter:
- Carman Lake — 1.2 mi (116 ac)
- Little Flat Lake — 1.8 mi (198 ac)
- Waboose — 2.9 mi (232 ac)
- Strawberry — 4.1 mi (1,498 ac)
- Big Rat Lake — 4.7 mi (900 ac)
- Ice Cracking Lake — 5.0 mi (337 ac)
- Ice Cracking — 5.1 mi (345 ac)
- Blackbird Lake — 5.8 mi (178 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Winter. 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 Winter?
Winter has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Winter last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 100,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Winter?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.