Priest Lake

Gorgeous 23,334-acre deep lake in Idaho's far north. Famous for Lake Trout - the Idaho state record (57.5 lbs) came from here in 1971. Today 10-20 pounders are common. Also kokanee, native cutthroat, and even smallmouth bass in recent years.

Species: Lake Trout, Kokanee Salmon, Westslope Cutthroat, Bull Trout, Smallmouth Bass. Difficulty: intermediate. Some experience pays off here.

Best timing: Summer and Fall and Winter. Summer fishes best at first light and late evening; midday is technical. Fall is prime — heavy feeding before winter, fewer crowds. Winter access is for dedicated anglers; ice conditions vary year to year.

Regulations: General rules apply. Liberal lake trout harvest encouraged. Always confirm with the current IDFG rule book before fishing.

Panhandle context

Idaho's Panhandle is defined by its big, deep-water lakes and a temperate, lake-effect climate. Lake Pend Oreille produces Gerrard rainbows and lake trout; Coeur d'Alene Lake holds the state's strongest mixed warm-water fishery (smallmouth, northern pike, perch); the St. Joe is one of the most photographed wild westslope cutthroat rivers in the Lower 48. Coeur d'Alene, Sandpoint, and St. Maries are the bases.

Plan for the experience level the fishery rewards.