Middle Thompson Lake Fishing [Montana]

Intro to Fishing Middle Thompson Lake in Western Montana

Middle Thompson Lake is one of the Thompson Chain of Lakes (Lower Thompson, Middle Thmpson, and Upper Thompson), and is a part of the Thompson River in the Lower Clark Fork Drainage. Typically, roughly 30,000 rainbow trout are stocked in this area in the Spring.

Largemouth Bass Fishing on Middle Thompson Lake

This small lake of the Thompson chain of lakes is first a good, if not great, largemouth bass fishery. Fly fishing or spin fishing methods are commonly employed on Middle Thomson Lake, and due to the largemouth running in the primarily 1 lb to 3 lb range, adjust your tackle accordingly.

If you are fly fishing, one of the most popular techniques is to strip streamers on or near the bottom and near or in weedbeds. This will of course also indicate a move to perhaps heavier leader and rod.

Trout Fishing on Middle Thompson Lake

While the emphasis on Middle Thompson (as with the other Thompson Lakes) is on bass, do not assume there are no trout fishing opportunities here. There are some rainbow trout and brown trout to be had. Target stream inlets if pursuing rainbows or browns.

Kokanee Salmon Fishing on Middle Thompson Lake

Also, Kokanee Salmon are present here in healthy numbers. Northern Pike, Mountain Whitefish, and Yellow Perch round out the gamefishing opportunities on this lake.

Pike Fishing on Middle Thompson Lake

Early summer may be your best bet for fishing for pike at this lake as well as other pike fisheries in western Montana. A sure-fire option for targeting northerns is cut bait. The Rapala Mystic Minnow as well as weedless spinners are winners here as well as are other lures in chartreuse and white. Focus on fishing in the 20 feet or less depths.

Where to Find Tackle and Bait Near Middle Thompson Lake

Groceries and supplies are limited in this area. McGregor Lake Resort, about 10 miles East on Hwy 2 at the time of this writing had a general store as well as some tackle supplies.

Camping Near Middle Thompson Lake

Camping is readily available at the Logan State Park (PDF Brochure) Campground. To access Middle Thomspon Lake, take Highway 2 approximately midway between Kalispell and Libby in the Northwest part of Montana.