Fishing at Long Tom, Minnesota
147-acre lake · Big Stone County · 4 species stocked
Stretching across 147 acres in Big Stone County, Long Tom is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its mixed warmwater and coldwater fishery. 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 10 stocking events on record for Long Tom:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 1,414 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 78 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 240 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 324 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,822 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,275 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Yellow Perch | 1,180 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 1,584 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 50,714 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Northern Pike | 362 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Northern Pike in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Long Tom, the state-level guide ranks the top lakes by stocking volume — a good supplement to this page when planning a trip:
- Top Northern Pike lakes in Minnesota
- Top Walleye lakes in Minnesota
- Top Yellow Perch lakes in Minnesota
- Top Black Crappie lakes in Minnesota
Best Time to Fish Long Tom
For northern pike, the best fishing on Long Tom 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 Long Tom:
- Long Tom Lake — 0.1 mi (137 ac)
- Otrey Lake — 2.7 mi (452 ac)
- Otrey — 2.8 mi (475 ac)
- Bentsen Lake — 4.6 mi (402 ac)
- Munnwyler Lake — 5.5 mi (140 ac)
- Thielke Lake — 5.6 mi (467 ac)
- Swenson — 6.4 mi (204 ac)
- Big Stone NWR East Pool — 6.5 mi (1,286 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Long Tom. 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 Long Tom?
Long Tom has been stocked with Northern Pike, Walleye, Yellow Perch, Black Crappie.
When was Long Tom last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 1,414 northern pike were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Long Tom?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.