Idaho fishing guide

Fernan Lake

Located just outside Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Fernan Lake is a beautiful and tranquil natural oasis, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Fernan Lake Information Board
Fernan Lake East Boat Ramp
Largemouth bass caught with jerkbait
Channel Catfish out of Fernan Lake
Northern Pike on Lure
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FishingFishing access
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East Boat Launch

Unlike the west launch (Fernan Park), which requires daily launch fees, the east launch remains cost free and accessible anytime unless otherwise posted locally, offering a great low hassle option for anglers and paddlers.

Resident Species

Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Yellow Perch, Crappie, Bluegill, Bullhead Catfish.

Stocked Species

Rainbow Trout, Channel Catfish

Fernan Lake Access

Fernan Lake has two boat launches, plenty of bank fishing and one camping area that is accessible by boat.

East Fernan Lake Road on the north side of the lake offers plenty of bank fishing, just pull over in one of the many shoulder parking areas. Although some spots can be a bit steep and rocky to get down to the water, but there is plenty of cover for fish.

The West Boat Ramp is the main boat launch, near the freeway. If features multiple fishing docks, a small park, and a handicap accessible restroom. This area also has plenty of parking but can get busy during the summer months.

The East Boat Ramp is more remote and less used, with limited parking and just one small dock. It can get a bit overrun by lily pads for motorboats. It’s open 24 hours and does have a handicap accessible bathroom. Another nice thing is that it is right across the lake from the only legal campsite.

The boat-in campsite is pretty primitive and only accessible by boat. It doesn’t have bathroom facilities and can get a bit overgrown, but it usually accommodates a couple of small tents and a fire pit or two. It’s important to note that the western parking lot closes at 10:00pm, so be sure to park East Boat Ramp if you plan to stay overnight.

Easy drive from Coeur D’ Alene!

If you live in the Coeur d’Alene area, Fernan Lake is one of the quickest and easiest fishing spots to reach, just minutes from downtown. With a paved boat launch, parking, and public access along the north shore, it offers a convenient option for spontaneous trips.

Fernan Lake

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