Fishing at Heron (South Heron), Minnesota
2,641-acre lake · Jackson County · 2 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Heron (South Heron) is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Jackson County. At 2,641 acres, it offers mid-sized 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 Heron (South Heron):
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,422,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 1,307 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,422,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,422,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 253,348 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 159,181 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,422,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,311,131 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,420,365 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2016 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 134,820 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Heron (South Heron), 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 Heron (South Heron)
For walleye, the best fishing on Heron (South Heron) 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 Heron (South Heron):
- South Heron Lake — 0.1 mi (2,719 ac)
- Lake Flaherty — 2.2 mi (450 ac)
- Flahtery — 2.3 mi (457 ac)
- Timber — 6.8 mi (191 ac)
- Clear — 9.7 mi (434 ac)
- String — 10.1 mi (336 ac)
- Fish — 12.6 mi (297 ac)
- Cottonwood — 12.8 mi (155 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Heron (South Heron). 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 Heron (South Heron)?
Heron (South Heron) has been stocked with Walleye, Northern Pike.
When was Heron (South Heron) last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 1,422,500 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Heron (South Heron)?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.