Fishing at St. Louis River Estuary, Minnesota
10,255-acre lake · St. Louis County · 2 species stocked
Stretching across 10,255 acres in St. Louis County, St. Louis River Estuary is a lake known to anglers throughout Minnesota for its consistent fishery for its target species. 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 6 stocking events on record for St. Louis River Estuary:
| Date | Species | Quantity | Avg size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Muskellunge | 2,308 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2024 | 🐟 Lake Sturgeon | 2,113 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2023 | 🐟 Lake Sturgeon | 375 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Muskellunge | 767 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2021 | 🐟 Muskellunge | 415 | 0.0″ |
| Jan 1, 2019 | 🐟 Muskellunge | 4,945 | 0.0″ |
Species You Can Catch
Where to Catch Muskellunge in Minnesota
If you're targeting one of the species stocked in St. Louis River Estuary, 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 St. Louis River Estuary
For muskellunge, the best fishing on St. Louis River Estuary 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 St. Louis River Estuary:
- Thomson Reservoir — 12.0 mi (390 ac)
- Thomson Reservoir — 12.0 mi (333 ac)
- Wild Rice Lake Reservoir — 13.4 mi (3,074 ac)
- Wild Rice — 13.6 mi (2,372 ac)
- Pike — 13.7 mi (488 ac)
- Chub — 15.3 mi (313 ac)
- Chub Lake — 15.4 mi (304 ac)
- Caribou Lake — 15.8 mi (527 ac)
Fishing Regulations
A valid Minnesota fishing license is required at St. Louis River Estuary. 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 St. Louis River Estuary?
St. Louis River Estuary has been stocked with Muskellunge, Lake Sturgeon.
When was St. Louis River Estuary last stocked?
The most recent stocking on record was Jan 1, 2024, when 2,308 muskellunge were planted.
Do I need a fishing license for St. Louis River Estuary?
Yes — a valid Minnesota fishing license is required. Purchase one online from the Minnesota DNR.