Every Boat Ramp on Big Stone Lake

About Big Stone Lake

Big Stone Lake is a 12,610-acre border lake shared by Minnesota and South Dakota, stretching 26 miles along the state line in Big Stone and Lac Qui Parle counties. This long, narrow lake is the source of the Minnesota River and sits at the head of the Minnesota River Valley. With a maximum depth of just 16 feet, Big Stone Lake is a shallow, wind-swept body of water that produces excellent fishing for walleye, northern pike, and yellow perch.

Walleye are the top target, with fish feeding actively across the lake's expansive flats and along the weed lines. Northern pike reach impressive sizes in the lake's fertile waters, and yellow perch provide fast action, particularly during fall and winter. Channel catfish and freshwater drum add diversity to the catch. Ice fishing is popular, with walleye and perch being the primary winter species.

Ortonville, Minnesota, and Big Stone City, South Dakota, are the primary gateway communities, sitting at the southern end of the lake. Boat launches are available on both the Minnesota and South Dakota sides. Big Stone Lake is also home to Big Stone National Wildlife Refuge, making it a destination for birders and nature enthusiasts as well as anglers.

Nearest towns: Ortonville, Big Stone City