MANKATO, Minn. (KEYC) – This is year two of the Minnesota DNR stocking Hiniker Balli with rainbow trout. Minnesota’s lake trout opener for lakes outside of the boundary waters is Saturday, Jan. 18.

Trout fishing is a great outdoor activity for visitors and residents of the area to enjoy. Winter trout fishing season opens on January 18, 2025. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources stocked trout in Hiniker Pond on January 16th in advance of the season opener on January 18th. The season last year brought crowds of visitors from across the state and local anglers enjoying the trout fishing.

Why is this unique? In southern Minnesota lakes are not typically deep enough to naturally offer trout. By stocking Hiniker Pond, it brings a fun and limited experience in southern Minnesota for people to enjoy trout fishing. The Minnesota DNR has partnered with Visit Mankato to stock the rainbow trout in Hiniker Pond for ease of access to the lake for youth and adults and easily navigable in the city with ample amenities for visitors to enjoy in the area.

While no ice is considered safe, the current ice thickness ranges from 10-12” as of January 17, 2025. Anglers must have a valid fishing license and must have a trout stamp validation to keep any trout. The winter trout fishing season runs from January 18 – March 31, 2025. Total possession limit is 5 rainbow trout.

For more information, visit KEYC News Now or the Minnesota DNR website.