Fishing at Big, Minnesota
254-acre lake · Sherburne County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Big is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Sherburne County. At 254 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 10 stocking events on record for Big:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,405 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,700 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,300 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Walleye | 170 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 2 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 254 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 315 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 123 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,510 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 375 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Big, 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
For walleye, the best fishing on Big 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:
- Lake Mitchell — 0.3 mi (391 ac)
- Mitchell — 0.6 mi (170 ac)
- Eagle — 3.7 mi (462 ac)
- Birch — 4.9 mi (160 ac)
- Ann — 6.7 mi (183 ac)
- Orono — 7.6 mi (300 ac)
- Orono Lake — 7.6 mi (254 ac)
- Ida — 7.7 mi (226 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Big. 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?
Big has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Big last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 1,405 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Big?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.