Lake Thompson, South Dakota

Lakes

Positioned within the scenic landscape of east-central South Dakota, Lake Thompson offers a rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels. With its 15,000-acre expanse, rocky shorelines, and submerged timber, this public lake is a haven for numerous fish species, including smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike. Visitors to the lake can take advantage of free fishing access, as well as several boat launch ramps for those looking to cast their lines offshore. The surrounding area boasts an array of amenities, such as campgrounds and lodging options, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for those wishing to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this remarkable fishing destination.

Lake Thompson, South Dakota State Resources

South Dakota DNR Website

If you’re looking for the most up-to-date information on fishing licenses, requirements, and information about Lake Thompson you should definitely check out the South Dakota DNR. Here is their contact information and other useful links right here.

Lake Thompson Location

Lake Thompson 21199 Flood Club Rd, Lake Preston, SD 57249,

Helpful Links

Unlock the Great Outdoors

Why limit yourself to public land when there are millions of acres of private land to explore.

Fishing at Lake Thompson, South Dakota

At Lake Thompson, anglers can expect to catch a wide variety of fish species, such as smallmouth bass, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, white bass, yellow perch, and northern pike. Bass, crappie, and bluegill are typically found in the shallower waters near the shoreline, while walleye and perch tend to remain offshore around the river channel, ledges, and humps.

Smallmouth bass
Black crappie
White crappie
Walleye
Bluegill
White bass
Yellow perch
Northern pike

Amenities at Lake Thompson, South Dakota

Lake Thompson offers a range of amenities to make your fishing experience enjoyable and comfortable.

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY

Available Activities at Lake Thompson, South Dakota

In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, hiking, and wildlife watching at Lake Thompson. There are campgrounds and RV parks nearby, providing the perfect opportunity to spend a weekend or an extended stay exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Pros:

Wide variety of fish species
Beautiful scenery
Good amenities

Cons:

No marina or boat rental available
Some areas can be crowded during peak season

FAQ

Do I need a fishing license to fish at Lake Thompson?

Yes, a South Dakota fishing license is required to fish at Lake Thompson.

Are there any boat restrictions at Lake Thompson?

There are no specific boat restrictions, but it’s always best to check with local authorities for any updates or changes.