Fishing at Pillager, Minnesota
205-acre lake · Cass County · 1 species stocked
If you're looking for somewhere to wet a line in Minnesota, Pillager is one of the most consistently productive lakes in Cass County. At 205 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 4 stocking events on record for Pillager:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Walleye | 70,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Walleye | 70,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Walleye | 70,000 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2017 | 🐟 Walleye | 70,000 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Walleye in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in Pillager, 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 Pillager
For walleye, the best fishing on Pillager 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 Pillager:
- Pillager Lake — 0.0 mi (193 ac)
- Sylvan — 3.7 mi (894 ac)
- Rock — 4.0 mi (261 ac)
- Lake Placid — 4.3 mi (503 ac)
- Placid — 4.4 mi (537 ac)
- Sylvan — 5.9 mi (321 ac)
- Stanchfield Lake — 7.5 mi (118 ac)
- Stanchfield — 7.6 mi (116 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at Pillager. 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 Pillager?
Pillager has been stocked with Walleye.
When was Pillager last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2023, when 70,000 walleye were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for Pillager?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.