Fishing at Big Trout, Minnesota
1,366-acre lake · Crow Wing County · 1 species stocked
Big Trout sits at 0 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in Crow Wing County, Minnesota, covering 1,366 acres of lake water. The state stocked the lake most recently on January 01, 2023, with 20,676 Lake Trout 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 8 stocking events on record for Big Trout:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 20,676 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 20,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 200 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 149 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 26,110 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 342 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 21,888 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Lake Trout | 106 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Lake Trout in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Big Trout, 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 Trout
For lake trout, the best fishing on Big Trout 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 Trout:
- Island — 1.2 mi (232 ac)
- Rush — 1.7 mi (858 ac)
- Ox — 2.0 mi (241 ac)
- Ox Lake — 2.0 mi (250 ac)
- Pine River Reservoir — 2.2 mi (14,402 ac)
- Arrowhead — 2.8 mi (296 ac)
- Pig — 3.0 mi (196 ac)
- Whitefish — 3.2 mi (7,714 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Big Trout. 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 Trout?
Big Trout has been stocked with Lake Trout.
When was Big Trout last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 20,676 lake trout were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Big Trout?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.