What You'll Find Below Fort Thompson Dam

Lake Sharpe's tailrace—the stretch of the Missouri River immediately downstream from Fort Thompson Dam—is one of South Dakota's most consistent walleye fisheries. The dam creates a current break and oxygenated water that holds walleye year-round, and the structure itself attracts pike and occasional catfish. The tailrace runs roughly from the dam down to the next pool, and the best fishing happens in the first mile or so where the current is strongest and the water stays coldest.

This is not a lake in the traditional sense. It's a river section shaped by dam operations, which means water levels and current speed change throughout the day based on power generation. That variability is actually what makes it productive—the moving water keeps fish active and concentrated in predictable zones. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but walleye bite year-round if you understand how to read the current and position yourself in the right depth.

Key Takeaways

  • The tailrace holds walleye in the first mile below Fort Thompson Dam, where current and depth create natural feeding zones.
  • Water levels rise and fall with dam operations, so check the Fort Thompson Dam release schedule before you fish and plan for current changes during your trip.
  • Spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) produce the most consistent walleye action, though summer and winter fishing are both viable.
  • Jigs tipped with live minnows or crawlers work best in the current; cast upstream and let the current work the bait through the strike zone.
  • Access is available at the Fort Thompson area boat ramp and several bank-fishing spots along Highway 37 on the east side of the river.

How Dam Operations Shape the Bite

Fort Thompson Dam is a run-of-river structure, meaning water flows through it constantly, but the volume changes based on power generation and upstream conditions. When the dam is releasing water at higher rates, the current picks up, walleye move into deeper slots and behind structure, and the bite often improves because fish are more aggressive. When releases slow, the current weakens, and fish spread out into shallower water and slack areas.

You can check the current release schedule through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website or by calling the Fort Thompson Dam office. Knowing whether releases are high or low helps you decide whether to fish tight to structure or work the edges of the current. Many anglers fish the tailrace in the early morning when releases are typically lower, then move to deeper structure as the day progresses and power generation increases.

Water temperature in the tailrace stays cooler than the main lake because the dam pulls water from deeper in the reservoir. This is why walleye stay active here even in midsummer when the rest of Lake Sharpe warms up. The trade-off is that the tailrace can be dangerous during high-release periods—currents are strong, and the river bottom is uneven. Never fish alone, wear a life jacket if you're in a boat, and stay aware of water level changes.

Spring and Fall: Peak Walleye Seasons

April through May is the most reliable time to fish the tailrace. Walleye move shallow to spawn in the current, and they feed aggressively before and after the spawn. The water is still cold, which keeps fish concentrated and active. Jigs in the 1/8- to 3/8-ounce range tipped with live shiners or crawlers work best. Cast upstream and let the current carry your jig through the deeper slots and behind any rocks or structure you can see.

Fall (September through early November) is equally good, sometimes better. Water cools again, walleye move back into the tailrace to feed before winter, and the current is usually stable. The same jig-and-minnow approach works, though you may also have success with small crankbaits and spinners if you want to cover water faster. Fall fishing can last into November depending on how quickly the water cools.

Summer fishing is slower but not impossible. Walleye retreat to the deepest holes and the shadiest structure during the day, then move shallow at dawn and dusk. Early morning and evening trips produce better results than midday sessions. Winter fishing is possible but requires ice-fishing gear and knowledge of where the current keeps holes open—this is not beginner territory.

Where to Position Yourself and What to Fish

The tailrace has several distinct zones. The area directly below the dam is fast and deep—this is where walleye hold during high releases. The first quarter-mile downstream has a mix of current and slack water, with rocks and structure creating pockets where fish rest. Beyond that, the current slows and the river widens, and fishing becomes less consistent.

From a boat, position yourself upstream of structure and cast down and across the current. Let your jig sink and work it slowly through the strike zone. If you're fishing from shore, look for access points along Highway 37 on the east side of the river. Bank fishing works best in the slower sections where you can reach deeper water without wading into dangerous current.

Pike are also present in the tailrace, especially in spring and fall. They often hold in the same current breaks as walleye but prefer slightly shallower water. If you're targeting pike, use larger minnows or small soft plastics. The tailrace is not known as a pike destination, but you'll catch them incidentally, and they can be a bonus on a walleye trip.

Tackle and Technique for Tailrace Walleye

A 6- to 7-foot medium-action spinning rod with 8- to 10-pound braided line is standard for tailrace fishing. Braid holds up better in current and gives you better feel for what's happening on the bottom. Tie a 2- to 3-foot fluorocarbon leader to reduce visibility in the clear water.

Jigs are the workhorse. Use 1/8-ounce for slower current and shallower water, 1/4-ounce for moderate current, and 3/8-ounce for fast water and deeper holes. Tip every jig with a live minnow—shiners, chubs, or small shad all work. Crawlers are a solid backup if you don't have minnows. Cast upstream, let the jig sink on a controlled drop, then work it back with a slow lift-and-drop motion. The current does most of the work; you're just keeping contact and feeling for bites.

Vertical jigging is also effective if you're in a boat and can hold position in the current. Drop your jig straight down, work it with short hops, and move to new spots every few minutes. This approach works especially well during high-release periods when the current is too strong for casting.

Access Points and Practical Information

The main boat ramp is at Fort Thompson, on the west side of the river near the dam. This is a concrete ramp with parking and is the most reliable access point. From there, you can run downstream into the tailrace or fish from the ramp area itself. The ramp can get crowded on weekends during peak season.

Bank access is available along Highway 37 on the east side of the river. There are several pull-offs and informal access points, though none are developed facilities. Bank fishing is best in the slower sections downstream from the main current. Wading is possible in some areas but requires caution—the bottom is uneven, and current can shift quickly.

You'll need a South Dakota fishing license and a Missouri River stamp. Check current regulations for walleye and pike limits before you fish. The tailrace is open year-round, but conditions change dramatically with season and weather. Spring and fall are most accessible and productive for most anglers. Summer requires early starts and evening trips. Winter requires ice-fishing experience and knowledge of where open water persists.

What to Expect in Different Seasons

Spring (April–May): Water temperature 40–55°F, walleye shallow and aggressive, best jig fishing of the year. Expect crowds on weekends. Bring rain gear and dress in layers.

Summer (June–August): Water temperature 65–75°F, walleye deep during day, active at dawn and dusk. Fewer anglers, but fishing is slower. Early morning trips are essential.

Fall (September–October): Water temperature 55–65°F, walleye return to tailrace, second-best season after spring. Stable weather and consistent fishing. Crowds return as water cools.

Winter (November–March): Water temperature 32–45°F, ice forms in slower sections, open water persists near dam. Ice fishing and open-water fishing both possible but require specialized knowledge and gear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish the tailrace without a boat?

Yes. Bank access along Highway 37 on the east side works well, especially in the slower sections downstream from the main current. You won't reach the deepest, most productive water, but you can catch walleye from shore with patience and the right technique.

What time of day is best for walleye in the tailrace?

Early morning and late evening are most consistent, especially in summer. Spring and fall produce throughout the day. Check dam release schedules—higher releases often trigger better feeding regardless of time of day.

Do I need to know the dam release schedule before I fish?

It helps. High releases create stronger current and concentrate fish in deeper structure. Low releases spread fish out. You can fish either condition, but knowing what to expect helps you position yourself correctly and choose the right jig weight.

What's the difference between fishing the tailrace and fishing the main lake?

The tailrace has constant current, colder water, and more structure. Fish are concentrated and active. The main lake is calmer, warmer, and requires different techniques. The tailrace is more predictable and often more productive for walleye.

Is the tailrace dangerous?

It can be. Current is strong, the bottom is uneven, and water levels change with dam operations. Wear a life jacket in a boat, never fish alone, and stay aware of your surroundings. Bank fishing is safer than boating but still requires caution near the water's edge.