Exploring Fishing Spots Around Sandpoint

Fishing around Sandpoint offers a blend of scenic beauty and diverse aquatic habitats, making it a haven for anglers of all skill levels. The region boasts a wide variety of waters, from expansive lakes to winding rivers, each teeming with fish and surrounded by the breathtaking backdrop of North Idaho's mountains.

Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho's largest and deepest lake, is famous for its trophy-sized Kamloops trout, bull trout, and Kokanee. Anglers flock here year-round, using trolling, jigging, and even ice fishing when winter sets in. Meanwhile, the Clark Fork River and the Pend Oreille River are well-known for fly fishing, offering catches of rainbow and cutthroat trout, as well as bass, walleye, and pike.

For a more serene experience, Cocolalla Lake and Gamlin Lake provide peaceful settings with opportunities to catch largemouth bass, crappie, and trout. Shepherd Lake and McArthur Lake offer excellent trout and pike fishing, especially from kayaks and small boats. On the Priest River and Priest Lake, you’ll find prized cutthroat and mackinaw trout, perfect for those who enjoy both river and deep-water lake fishing.

No matter the season, Sandpoint’s waters promise not just a great catch but also an unforgettable adventure amid nature’s splendor. Whether you're fishing from the shore, a drift boat, or even trying your luck on the ice, there’s something special about casting a line in Sandpoint's waters.

Lake Pend Oreille

• Largest lake in Idaho, known for its depth and clear waters.
• Popular for trophy-sized trout, including Kamloops and Bull Trout, as well as Kokanee.
• Fishing techniques: trolling, jigging, and fly fishing.
• Local tips on hotspots like Bayview and Hope for catching trout.

Clark Fork River

• Flows into Lake Pend Oreille, making it a prime spot for anglers seeking trout.
• Known for fly fishing and drift boat fishing, especially in the upper stretches.
• Offers a chance to catch rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, and whitefish.

Cocolalla Lake

• A smaller lake, perfect for a peaceful fishing experience.
• Notable for largemouth bass, crappie, and perch.
• Best fished from shoreline or small boats; ice fishing is popular in winter.

Gamlin Lake

• A remote and serene lake for catching cutthroat trout and brook trout.
• Ideal for kayak fishing or lightweight watercraft.
• Offers a quiet retreat for those seeking solitude.

Priest River

• A diverse river with stretches suitable for fly fishing.
• Known for its cutthroat and rainbow trout populations.
• Scenic backdrop of dense forests adds to the fishing experience.

Shepherd Lake

• Small, yet stocked regularly with rainbow trout and brook trout.
• Best fished in spring and fall.
• Offers easy access for families and beginner anglers.

Kootenai River

• Renowned for its rainbow trout and white sturgeon.
• Flows from Montana into Idaho, creating opportunities for drift fishing.
• Sturgeon fishing permits are required for targeting this massive species.

Tips for Anglers

• Best times of year to fish in each location.
• Required permits and licenses for fishing in Idaho.
• Local outfitters and guides that can enhance the fishing experience, such as guided boat tours or fly-fishing lessons.
• Reminder to respect catch limits and conservation practices.

Reel in Adventure

Fishing around Sandpoint offers more than just a chance to reel in a big catch—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy serene surroundings, and embrace the beauty of North Idaho. From the expansive waters of Lake Pend Oreille to the hidden gems like Gamlin and McArthur Lakes, each spot brings its own unique charm and fishing experience. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out, Sandpoint’s diverse waters are sure to provide rewarding adventures year-round. So pack your fishing gear, get your permits, and prepare for a memorable trip. And when you’re ready to unwind after a day on the water, Cedar Street Hotel & Suites is the perfect place to rest, offering comfortable accommodations just minutes away from Sandpoint’s finest fishing spots.