95,000 Walleye Fingerlings Stocked in Fox Lake

Fox Lake received a major boost to its fishery this month as the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) stocked 95,000 extended-growth walleye fingerlings into the lake as part of the Wisconsin Walleye Initiative.

These fingerlings—most measuring just a few inches now—are expected to grow to 7–8 inches by fall. While only about 1%–2% of stocked fingerlings typically survive to adulthood, that still means hundreds of mature walleye will eventually contribute to the lake’s natural population, offering both ecological balance and opportunities for anglers in the years to come.

The DNR stocked the majority of these fish by boat, ensuring better distribution across the lake’s habitats. This stocking is part of the Wisconsin Walleye Initiative, launched in 2013 to enhance walleye fishing statewide by increasing the number of large fingerlings stocked in Wisconsin lakes. The initiative supports state, tribal, and private hatcheries in raising fingerlings to larger sizes—like the ones placed in Fox Lake—greatly improving their odds of survival.

Why It Matters

Walleye are a keystone species for many Wisconsin lakes, including Fox Lake. They support a balanced food chain, offer a prized catch for local and visiting anglers, and contribute to the overall health and vitality of our lake’s ecosystem.

We’re grateful to the Wisconsin DNR for their continued investment in Fox Lake through this initiative and look forward to seeing the long-term benefits of this year’s stocking effort.