Fishing at Ban, Minnesota
389-acre lake · St. Louis County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Ban is one of the most consistently productive lakes in St. Louis County. At 389 acres, it offers small lake fishing across specialized habitat — exactly the kind of water that rewards anglers who pay attention to stocking schedules and seasonal patterns.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 8 stocking events on record for Ban:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 194,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 194,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 194,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 194,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 400,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 400,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 414,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 400,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Ban, 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 Ban
For walleye, the best fishing on Ban 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 Ban:
- Ban Lake — 0.0 mi (402 ac)
- Elbow — 2.1 mi (1,695 ac)
- Myrtle — 2.7 mi (876 ac)
- Susan — 4.1 mi (276 ac)
- Winchester Lake — 4.6 mi (328 ac)
- Winchester — 4.7 mi (319 ac)
- Kjostad Lake — 5.3 mi (447 ac)
- Kjostad — 5.4 mi (437 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Ban. 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 Ban?
Ban has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Ban last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 194,500 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Ban?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.