Northern Idaho Fishing
Pristine mountain lakes, wild rivers, and some of Idaho's best trophy fishing. Welcome to the Panhandle.
Premier Waters
Lake Coeur d'Alene
Stunning mountain lake with excellent bass, pike, and kokanee fishing. One of the most scenic fisheries in the Northwest.
Lake Pend Oreille
Idaho's largest and deepest lake. Home to trophy rainbow trout (Gerrard strain), world-class bass, and Kamloops trout.
Priest Lake
Remote pristine lake with excellent mackinaw (lake trout) and kokanee. Less crowded than CDA or Pend Oreille.
All Waters
Lake Coeur d'Alene
LakeStunning mountain lake with excellent bass, pike, and kokanee fishing. One of the most scenic fisheries in the Northwest.
Lake Pend Oreille
LakeIdaho's largest and deepest lake. Home to trophy rainbow trout (Gerrard strain), world-class bass, and Kamloops trout.
Priest Lake
LakeRemote pristine lake with excellent mackinaw (lake trout) and kokanee. Less crowded than CDA or Pend Oreille.
St. Joe River
RiverBeautiful freestone river flowing into Lake CDA. Excellent cutthroat fishing in remote sections.
Coeur d'Alene River
RiverThe North Fork provides excellent cutthroat fishing in a scenic mountain setting.
Hayden Lake
LakePopular lake near CDA with good bass and pike fishing. Easy access from Spokane area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best fishing in Northern Idaho?
Lake Coeur d'Alene offers diverse fishing for pike, bass, and kokanee. Lake Pend Oreille has trophy rainbow trout and is Idaho's deepest lake. Priest Lake is excellent for mackinaw (lake trout). The St. Joe River provides pristine cutthroat fishing.
Where can I fish near Coeur d'Alene?
Lake Coeur d'Alene itself offers excellent fishing with easy access from the city docks. Hayden Lake is 10 minutes north. The Coeur d'Alene River (North Fork) is about 30 minutes east. The St. Joe River is about an hour south.
What fish are in Lake Pend Oreille?
Lake Pend Oreille contains trophy rainbow trout (including Gerrard strain), Kamloops trout, kokanee salmon, largemouth and smallmouth bass, perch, and protected bull trout. The lake is famous for its large rainbow trout.
Is Priest Lake good for fishing?
Yes, Priest Lake is excellent for fishing. It's particularly known for large mackinaw (lake trout) and kokanee salmon. The lake is more remote and less crowded than CDA or Pend Oreille, offering a true wilderness fishing experience.
Explore Northern Idaho Waters
Find access points and conditions on our interactive map.
Open Fishing Map