Thompson River

The Thompson River is a 55-mile tributary of the Clark Fork flowing from the Thompson Lakes chain through remote northwest Montana timber country. The river holds rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout, and mountain whitefish, with occasional bull trout near the confluence with the Clark Fork. Despite flowing through isolated forest land, access is excellent with roads on both sides for much of its length. The Thompson kicks off with salmonfly and caddis hatches in spring, transitions to hopper fishing in late summer, and sees brown trout moving up from the Clark Fork to spawn in fall. Fish average 10-12 inches with larger browns in the lower canyon section. Free primitive campsites along Thompson River Road make extended trips convenient. Improved logging practices and fishing regulations have helped the river recover and grow into a quality small-stream fishery. The Thompson offers a pleasurable wade fishing experience for anglers seeking solitude.