Fishing at Big Sand, Minnesota
731-acre lake · Cass County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Big Sand is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Cass County. At 731 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 7 stocking events on record for Big Sand:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 17,717 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 14,959 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Walleye | 12,257 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 290 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 4,815 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 64 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,005 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Big Sand, 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 Sand
For walleye, the best fishing on Big Sand 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 Sand:
- Big Sand Lake — 0.1 mi (715 ac)
- Little Sand Lake — 1.8 mi (399 ac)
- Little Sand — 1.9 mi (413 ac)
- Knight — 4.0 mi (131 ac)
- Grave — 4.0 mi (373 ac)
- Mabel — 5.0 mi (184 ac)
- Mabel Lake — 5.0 mi (166 ac)
- Big Rice — 5.3 mi (2,030 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Big Sand. 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 Sand?
Big Sand has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Big Sand last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 17,717 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Big Sand?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.