Fernan Lake

Fernan Lake, located on the outskirts of Coeur d'Alene, provides one of the finest natural urban fisheries in the state. This 300 acre lake receives heavy angling pressure. Nearly 23,000 fish per year are harvested. Aggressive management strategies, such as diversifying the fishery with non-native, compatible species, has kept Fernan Lake a high success fishery.

Shoreline and boat anglers alike fish Fernan. There are two public boat launches, one at the east end and one on the west end of the lake. Shoreline access can be found in these areas around the docks and along the roadside on the northwest side of the lake.

Wild cutthroat trout, brook trout and stocked rainbow trout account for over 40% of the catch in Fernan. Warm water species also play a critical role. With an average depth of only 12 feet, water temperature rise quickly and provide good habitat for species such as largemouth bass, bullhead catfish, channel catfish, crappie, perch, and pumpkinseed. Northern pike can also be found in Fernan.

If you are just getting started fishing, you will need a 5' to 5 1/2' rod and matching reel loaded with 6-10 lb. line, some basic tackle, a few worms and you are ready to go. You may wish to add a small bobber to regulate the depth you are fishing, or as strike indicators for the young angler.

Trout
Trout are cool water fish so as surface temperatures begin to rise you will find them in the deeper more protected waters. Early in the season worms on a number 8 or 10 hook fished just off the bottom is effective. Later in the season small spoons, spinners or rooster tail may work.

Perch
Perch can be found near docks and open areas as well. Since they are schooling fish, once they are found, the fishing can be fast. Worms and cut bait work well for perch.

Sun Fish and Crappie
Fishing for pumpkinseed and crappie is ideal for kids. These fish can be found in the shallows and still fishing a simple set up works great. Crappie also are attracted by actively fished colored jigs.

Largemouth Bass
Largemouth bass are doing well in Fernan. Some up to 21" have been caught. Bass like heavy cover. Seek out vegetation or artificial structure and use plugs, large jigs, or plastic grubs and worms. They must be fished actively, so cast out and retrieve allowing the natural action of the lure to work.

Catfish
Channel catfish were first stocked into Fernan in 1987 the average range in length is 12"-19". They are primarily bottom feeders so still fish, using cutbait, stinkbait or worms.

Pike
Northern Pike require slightly different equipment, check with local fishing shops for the best tackle and equipment.

Ice fishing
Ice fishing on Fernan is great for perch and occasional trout. Use short rods or tip-ups with cutbait, maggots or worms. Be sure to check the ice for thickness. Give ice fishing a try it's a great excuse to get out and enjoy the winter and extends your fishing season too.