Cave and Medicine Lakes

1 Ramp, 1 Dock

Cave & Medicine Lakes Near Coeur D’ Alene

Just north of Coeur d’Alene, Cave Lake and Medicine Lake provide a quiet fishing and paddling getaway compared to busier North Idaho waters. Surrounded by forest and connected by a narrow channel, these twin lakes are popular for kayaking, canoeing, and shoreline fishing.

Access is available from the Rainy Hill Boat Launch, making it easy to put in small boats or kayaks. With no gas motors allowed, both lakes stay calm and peaceful, offering an ideal setting for trout, bass, and panfish anglers looking for a low-pressure day on the water.

Small craft such as kayaks, canoes, and rowboats can be launched at the Rainy Hill Boat Launch. It provides direct access to both Cave and Medicine Lakes, though it’s best suited for lightweight boats and hand-launching.

Most of the shoreline around Cave and Medicine Lakes is forested and privately owned. Public access is mainly available near the boat launch, making it easier for anglers to fish from the water rather than from shore.

Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, White Crappie, Sunfish, Bullhead Catfish.

Northern Pike

Fishing Cave and Medicine Lakes offers a laid-back experience with plenty of opportunity to hook into warmwater species like largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, perch, crappie, and sunfish. Early in the season, water clarity is better and weeds haven’t taken over yet, making it a great time to troll small spoons or cast spinnerbaits along the shallows. As summer heats up, thick vegetation pushes anglers toward topwater lures, weedless rigs, or deeper pockets near drop-offs. Both lakes are well-suited for kayak anglers, with calm conditions and low boat traffic. If you’re looking to land quality fish without the crowds, these tucked-away lakes are a solid bet.

Access to Cave and Medicine Lakes is primarily through the Rainy Hill Boat Launch located near the small community of Medimont, just off Highway 3. This gravel launch puts you directly onto Medicine Lake, and from there, a narrow, low-clearance channel connects into Cave Lake. The launch is best suited for kayaks, canoes, and small boats—there are no developed facilities, and parking is limited. Reaching the area requires a short drive down East Rainy Hill Road, which can get muddy after heavy rain. While it’s a bit off the beaten path, the remote setting keeps traffic light and the atmosphere peaceful, making it a great access point for anglers who prefer quiet water and a more natural launch experience.

Easy drive from Coeur D’ Alene!

If you live in the Coeur d’Alene area, Cave and Medicine Lakes are peaceful spots to escape into nature, only a short drive from town. With access from the Rainy Hill Boat Launch and public shoreline, these lakes provide a quiet setting for paddling, kayaking, and fishing – perfect for day trips without the long haul.

Fernan Lake

Spring kokanee in Wolf Lodge Bay are shallow, active, and easier to catch than most