Fishing at North Star, Minnesota
832-acre lake · Itasca County · 2 species stocked
North Star sits at 0 feet — low-elevation, warmer-water in Itasca County, Minnesota, covering 832 acres of lake water. The state stocked the lake most recently on January 01, 2024, with 9,948 Walleye 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 10 stocking events on record for North Star:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Walleye | 9,948 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 5,875 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2022 | 🐟 Walleye | 7,500 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,525 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2020 | 🐟 Walleye | 3,760 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Muskellunge | 104 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 7,460 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2018 | 🐟 Walleye | 2,660 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Muskellunge | 100 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 4,700 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in North Star, 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 North Star
For walleye, the best fishing on North Star 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 North Star:
- North Star Lake — 0.2 mi (1,039 ac)
- Smith — 2.1 mi (209 ac)
- Caribou — 2.2 mi (246 ac)
- Big Ole — 2.6 mi (217 ac)
- Big Ole Lake — 2.6 mi (224 ac)
- East Smith — 2.7 mi (152 ac)
- East Smith Lake — 2.8 mi (210 ac)
- Grave — 3.4 mi (525 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at North Star. 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 North Star?
North Star has been stocked with Walleye, Muskellunge.
When was North Star last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 9,948 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for North Star?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.