Fishing at Big Stone NWR East Pool, Minnesota
1,286-acre lake · Lac Qui Parle County · 1 species stocked
Big Stone NWR East Pool sits at 0 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in Lac Qui Parle County, Minnesota, covering 1,286 acres of lake water. The state stocked the lake most recently on January 01, 2023, with 599,420 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 7 stocking events on record for Big Stone NWR East Pool:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 599,420 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 600,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 600,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 600,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 600,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 600,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 601,582 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Big Stone NWR East Pool, 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 Stone NWR East Pool
For walleye, the best fishing on Big Stone NWR East Pool 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 Stone NWR East Pool:
- Long Tom — 6.5 mi (147 ac)
- Long Tom Lake — 6.6 mi (137 ac)
- Marsh — 7.9 mi (4,462 ac)
- Otrey Lake — 8.7 mi (452 ac)
- Otrey — 8.7 mi (475 ac)
- Long — 10.2 mi (395 ac)
- Bentsen Lake — 11.0 mi (402 ac)
- Artichoke — 11.9 mi (1,971 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Big Stone NWR East Pool. 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 Stone NWR East Pool?
Big Stone NWR East Pool has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Big Stone NWR East Pool last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 599,420 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Big Stone NWR East Pool?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.