Fishing at Bear Island, Minnesota
2,362-acre lake · St. Louis County · 1 species stocked
Bear Island sits at 0 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in St. Louis County, Minnesota, covering 2,362 acres of lake water. The state stocked the lake most recently on January 01, 2023, with 900,000 Walleye averaging 0.0 inches. It's been an active stocking water since at least 0, and the recent records below tell you what's been planted and when.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 4 stocking events on record for Bear Island:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 900,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 900,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 900,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,000,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Bear Island, 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 Bear Island
For walleye, the best fishing on Bear Island 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 Bear Island:
- Bear Island Lake — 0.3 mi (2,351 ac)
- Muckwa — 1.9 mi (147 ac)
- Johnson — 3.6 mi (456 ac)
- One Pine — 4.8 mi (354 ac)
- Bear Head — 5.3 mi (662 ac)
- Bear Head Lake — 5.3 mi (648 ac)
- Twin — 5.3 mi (224 ac)
- Eagles Nest Lake Number Four — 5.6 mi (174 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Bear Island. 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 Bear Island?
Bear Island has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Bear Island last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 900,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Bear Island?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.