Balfour Lake fish stocking
Minerva, Essex County, New York
Balfour Lake in Minerva, Essex County, New York was last stocked in April 2025 with 1,580 rainbow trout. Across the 4 years shown here, NYSDEC released 6,160 fish in 7 separate stockings. Stockings here are most common in April and May.
2026 stocking plan
From NYSDEC's published season plan. Plans can change because of weather and hatchery conditions.
| When | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| — 2026 | Rainbow Trout | 1,560 | 8 inches |
When Balfour Lake gets fish
Stocking history
New York reports the month of each stocking, not the exact day.
2025 · 1,580 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | 790 | 12″ | |
| Rainbow Trout | 790 | 9″ |
2024 · 1,580 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | 790 | 10″ | |
| Rainbow Trout | 790 | 10″ |
2023 · 1,500 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | 750 | 9″ | |
| Rainbow Trout | 750 | 9″ |
2022 · 1,500 fish
| Date | Species | Fish | Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rainbow Trout | 1,500 | 8.5″ |
Frequently asked questions
When was Balfour Lake last stocked?
NYSDEC records show Balfour Lake was last stocked in April 2025 (about 2 years ago), with 1,580 rainbow trout.
What fish are stocked in Balfour Lake?
Balfour Lake has been stocked with rainbow trout in the years shown here (2022–2025).
When does Balfour Lake usually get stocked?
Most fish have been stocked in April and May. Exact dates change from year to year, so check back or see NYSDEC's official stocking page.
Do I need a license to fish Balfour Lake?
Yes, anglers generally need a valid New York fishing license. Check the current New York fishing regulations for seasons, limits and any special rules for Balfour Lake.
Other stocked waters in Essex County
Schroon Lake
Chapel Pond
Lower Cascade Lake
Palmer Dam Pond
Upper Cascade Lake
Avalanche Lake
All 167 stocked waters in Essex County →
Source: Fish Stocking Lists (Actual) (data.ny.gov), Current Season Spring Trout Stocking (data.ny.gov). Stocked Lakes is not affiliated with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Spot a problem? Let us know.