Fishing at Big Swan, Minnesota
684-acre lake · Meeker County · 1 species stocked
Stretching across 684 acres in Meeker County, Big Swan is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its consistent fishery for its target species. Whether you're casting from a kayak or running deeper structure from a boat, the data on this page will help you plan your next trip.
Recent Stocking Reports
The most recent 3 stocking events on record for Big Swan:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 170,219 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 170,970 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 338,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Big Swan, 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 Swan
For walleye, the best fishing on Big Swan 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 Swan:
- Arvilla — 1.5 mi (138 ac)
- Lake Arvilla — 1.5 mi (131 ac)
- Spring — 3.9 mi (201 ac)
- Francis — 5.5 mi (1,053 ac)
- Cokato — 5.8 mi (553 ac)
- Cokato Lake — 5.9 mi (543 ac)
- Lake Washington — 6.5 mi (2,424 ac)
- Collinwood — 6.5 mi (639 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Big Swan. 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 Swan?
Big Swan has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Big Swan last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2022, when 170,219 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Big Swan?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.