Lake Thompson, SD

Lake Thompson is the second largest natural lake in South Dakota encompassing 18,000 acres. Lake Thompson was formed in the glacier age, but in the 1930s, the lake was completely dry and used for pasture. In the 1980s, the area was a 9,000-acre marsh. Heavy rains and snowmelt in the mid 80s filled the lake to over 20 feet deep. The lake was stocked with large numbers of several species of adult fish and fry including Walleye, Northern Pike, Crappie, Yellow Perch and Bass in the 80's. The fishing has been excellent as the diverse habitat has proven itself to sustain production so well that is becoming known as one of the country's most popular fisheries. Being located on a major waterfowl flyway provides excellent waterfowl hunting. Canadian & snow geese hunting as well as the northern duck hunting is also some of the best in the United States.

In 1997-1998 the Dept. of State Game and Fish in cooperation with the state of South Dakota and the Federal Government purchased an additional 2100+ acres of land for public use to include a large lake access state recreation area, wildlife production areas, walking areas, hunting areas etc. This state recreation area provides camping facilities, nature areas, fishing and swimming beach areas, boat ramps etc.