VOL. 14 · NO. 25 June 18, 2026 · Bozeman, MT LIVE · 6 RIVERS TRACKED · TOURNAMENTS THIS WEEK
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Lower Thompson River Fishing Report 8.25.25

Anglers on Lower Thompson are finding the summer heat has the salmon bite slowing until fall….

According to a thread in a social media group, fishing on Lower Thompson has been lively with plenty of mixed reports from the water. Several anglers noted hitting salmon limits multiple trips in a row, with some “fatties” showing up around Horseshoe. Smallmouth bass continue to dominate the lake, especially in shallower zones, but salmon remain out deeper — most success should be coming mid-winter and then again in late fall once the lake cools back down. Right now, the salmon bite seems to be slowing as they start gearing up for the spawn, while bass activity has been steady.

Depth has been the trickiest factor for many. Some anglers pulling limits are finding fish off deeper structure, while others trolling and jigging in the 25–50 ft range near the creek report little action. Overall, the bass are the most reliable right now, while salmon require more patience (or a bit of luck). Expect things to quiet down through the heat of late summer, with fishing picking up again as water temps drop.


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