Avondale Lake

Surface Area

57.8 acres

Average Depth

5 feet

Max Depth

22 feet

Fishing Access

Steep Dirt ramp. Best for Kayaks

Avondale Lake Fish Stocking Records

Avondale Lake is tucked away in the heart of Idaho and offers a unique blend of tranquility, pristine waters, and a fishing experience that’s sure to satisfy anglers of all skill levels.

This picturesque private lake may not be as well-known as some of the state’s more famous fishing spots, but it’s a hidden gem that’s well worth the visit, especially if you’re in search of peaceful surroundings and a quiet day on the water.

Avondale Lake Fish Species Guide

Resident Species

Largemouth Bass, Yellow Perch, White Crappie, Bluegill, Brown Bullhead Catfish.

Stocked Species

Rainbow Trout, Bluegill (2001)

Invasive Species

Tench

Largemouth Bass

Largemouth bass are abundant in Avondale Lake and provide excellent fishing opportunities from late spring through early fall. These bass thrive in the lake’s weedy bays and along shoreline structure, where they ambush prey such as bluegill, perch, and crayfish. During the spawn in late spring, they can be found in shallow, protected areas, making them easier to target. In summer, they often hold tight to heavy weed cover or suspend near drop offs, where precise casting and slower presentations are most effective. Popular lures include soft plastics, jigs, crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater baits during low light periods.

Tips for Success!

Target warm, shallow water – In spring and summer, bass cruise the shallows near structure like docks, brush, and weed lines.
Match the hatch – Use soft plastics, crankbaits, or jigs that mimic crawfish or baitfish—especially in natural colors.
Fish early morning or evening – Bass are most active during low-light hours when water temps are ideal.
Slow it down on hot days – When the sun’s high, work your baits slower and deeper near cover or drop-offs.

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are stocked annually in Avondale Lake each fall by Idaho Fish and Game, providing a popular cool season fishing opportunity. Most stocked fish are catchable size, averaging 12 to 14 inches, though some smaller fish are included to grow in the lake. These trout are most active in the cooler months from fall through spring, cruising the shallows and mid depths in search of insects, small fish, and prepared baits. Anglers do well trolling with small spoons, spinners, or worms behind dodgers, as well as fishing from shore with PowerBait, marshmallows, or nightcrawlers on sliding sinker rigs. As water warms in late spring, trout tend to move into deeper, cooler areas, making early morning the best time to target them. shore, particularly around the bays.

Tips for Success!

Fish in cool months – Trout are most active from fall through spring when water temperatures are lower.
Troll for coverage – Small spoons, spinners, or worms behind a dodger help cover water and find active fish.
Use bait from shore – PowerBait, marshmallows, or nightcrawlers on a sliding rig work well in the shallows.
Target early or late – In late spring, focus on early morning or evening when trout are closer to the surface.

Bullhead Catfish

Bullhead catfish are abundant in Avondale Lake and bite readily from spring through early fall. They are not stocked but have formed a strong, naturally reproducing population. Most range from 1 to 2 pounds, though larger fish are occasionally caught. Bullheads feed aggressively in low light, making evening and nighttime fishing especially productive. Simple bottom rigs with worms, cut bait, or chicken liver are highly effective and will draw consistent bites. They are often found in the same shallow flats and bays after dark, particularly in areas with softer bottoms or nearby cover.

Fish in the evening or at night – Bullheads are most active after dark.
Target shallow flats and bays – Focus on these areas for the best results.
Use worms, cut bait, or chicken liver – Simple bottom rigs produce steady bites.
Expect consistent action – Most fish average 1–2 pounds, with occasional larger catches.

Yellow Perch

Yellow perch are available year-round in Fernan Lake and are most active in the warmer months. Most average 8–10 inches and are often caught in schools, providing steady action. They bite well on worms, small jigs, and soft plastics, especially near weed edges, docks, and drop-offs. Target slightly deeper water during the day and move shallower in the morning or evening for the best results.

Fish early morning or late afternoon – Perch feed most aggressively during low-light periods.
Target schools near weed edges – Look for vegetation close to drop-offs where perch often congregate.
Downsize your tackle – Small jigs, soft plastics, or bits of worm work best for their smaller mouths.
Adjust depth with the sun – Fish deeper during bright midday hours and move shallower when light levels drop.

White Crappie

White crappie are a common catch in Avondale Lake and provide steady fishing action for anglers who locate their schools. They are often found near submerged brush, docks, and weed edges, especially in spring when they move into the shallows to spawn. Light spinning tackle with small jigs, soft plastics, or live minnows works well, and adjusting your depth is key to staying on the bite. During the summer months, white crappie often suspend in deeper water around mid depths, making a slow vertical presentation effective. Fall can also be productive as cooler water temperatures bring them back toward the shallows in search of baitfish.

Tips for Success!

Find the schools – Use electronics or trial casts to locate concentrated groups of crappie.
Downsize your gear – Light line and small jigs or minnows tend to get more bites.
Work the structure – Target docks, brush piles, or weed edges where crappie hold.
Vary your depth – Adjust your presentation until you find where they are suspended.

Avondale Lake Access

Though the boat launch is rough and less convenient than commercial ones, it’s worth the effort. There is no public restroom so be prepared to pay for lunch at the golf course, or risk wee off the kayak. As a private community, visitors are guests and must respect residents and follow posted signs to preserve the calm atmosphere. If you’re bringing a fishing kayak, be sure to have a friend help bring it back up the ramp because incline is not easy after a long day of paddling/peddling around the lake.

Easy drive from Coeur D’ Alene!

If you live in the Coeur d’Alene area, Avondale Lake is a peaceful and scenic fishing spot just minutes from town. Nestled beside Avondale Golf Club, it offers convenient access for a quick getaway on the water. With shoreline access and calm conditions ideal for small boats, kayaks, or canoes, it is a great choice for a relaxing day of fishing or paddling close to home.

Avondale Lake