Thompson, Manitoba

What's biting

• Lake Trout (Mackinaw)

  Where: Deep basins and drop-offs in larger lakes; Wekusko Lake, Clearwater Lake, and other oligotrophic lakes within 30 km.

  Early fall cooling pushes trout into shallower water (15–25 m / 50–80 ft). Use jigging with small spoons or live shiners; vertical jigging is most effective. Expect best action in early morning and evening.

  Caution: Confirm current possession limits and size restrictions with Manitoba Fisheries Branch.

• Northern Pike

  Where: Weedy shallows and creek mouths in lakes and river systems; Thompson River backwaters and connected lakes.

  Fall feeding aggression peaks as water cools. Cast large spinnerbaits, crankbaits, or live baitfish (whitefish, shiners) in 1–3 m (3–10 ft) of water near structure. Overcast days with wind are ideal.

  Caution: Pike can reach 1.5 m (5 ft) locally; handle carefully and check size/bag limits before keeping.

• Walleye

  Where: Sandy and rocky bottom in 2–6 m (6–20 ft) depth; river channels and lake edges.

  Jigging with live minnows or soft plastics near bottom structure is most productive. Fish low-light periods (dawn, dusk, overcast). Water temperature of 11°C favors active feeding.

  Caution: Walleye are heavily regulated; verify season status and limits with Manitoba Fisheries Branch before fishing.

• Whitefish (Lake & Round)

  Where: Deep water (15–30 m / 50–100 ft) and mid-depth zones in larger lakes; also river channels.

  Small jigging spoons, maggots, or tiny soft plastics work well. Fish slower than for trout; whitefish are less aggressive but more numerous. Early morning is prime time.

  Caution: Often underutilized locally; check regulations as they are sometimes open year-round or have generous limits.

• Arctic Grayling

  Where: Cold, clear streams and river headwaters; tributaries feeding larger lakes.

  Small dry flies or nymphs in current. Grayling are active in cool water and less selective than trout. Early September is excellent before water gets too cold.

  Caution: Grayling populations are sensitive; confirm season and catch-and-release requirements with the regulator.