Fishing at Big Portage, Minnesota
902-acre lake · Cass County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Big Portage is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Cass County. At 902 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 6 stocking events on record for Big Portage:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 904,365 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 901,800 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 901,755 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 906,300 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 902,495 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 902,090 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Big Portage, 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 Big Portage
For walleye, the best fishing on Big Portage 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 Big Portage:
- Deep Portage Lake — 1.6 mi (132 ac)
- Rainy — 1.7 mi (129 ac)
- Deep Portage — 1.7 mi (129 ac)
- Four Point Lake — 2.2 mi (247 ac)
- Five Point — 2.2 mi (251 ac)
- Sanborn — 2.3 mi (220 ac)
- Ox Yoke — 2.3 mi (185 ac)
- Sanborn Lake — 2.4 mi (209 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Big Portage. 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 Big Portage?
Big Portage has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Big Portage last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 904,365 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Big Portage?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.