The diversity of habitat in North Idaho supports a wide variety of fish. Yellow perch, crappie, pumpkinseed, bullheads, and largemouth bass abound. Northern pike and mountain whitefish can also be found. Rainbow, cutthroat, brown, and brook trout reside in some of the same waters -- and in less accessible mountain lakes and streams. Priest Lake, with its seventy miles of shoreline bordered in ferns, evergreens spruce, hemlock, and with 7,000-foot peaks, is famous for its huge mackinaw, trophy cutthroat and rainbow trout. Kokanee salmon are abundant in this region, providing not only fishing pleasure but also nourishment for the larger trophy species. Gerrard rainbow (kamloops), bull trout (inland Dolly Varden), and chinook salmon have been known to tip the scales at 30 pounds. Although The Panhandle comprises only ten percent of Idaho, one third of the state's record fish are caught here.

A variety of wildlife call this region home, as well. Terrain varies from the lowlands to remote alpine vistas. Old lumber mills, Indian missions, and abandoned silver mines are a testament to the region's rich history. There's something here for outdoor adventurers of any persuasion. No matter what your passion, it can be indulged in The Panhandle of Idaho. Coeur d'Alene (Cor de lane), the largest city in this region, was named "All American City" in 1991 by the National Civic League. The lakefront resort of the same name boasts the world's longest floating boardwalk (over 3,300 feet) and the world's first floating green.

Detailed information about North Idaho, and especially the Coeur d'Alene area, can be obtained by calling the city's Convention and Visitors' Bureau at 1-800-CDA-4YOU (232-4968); or the North Idaho Travel Committee at 1-800-800-2106. On the northwest end of Lake Pend Oreille, lies the picturesque town of Sandpoint whose Chamber of Commerce can be reached at 208-263-2161. For areas further north around Priest Lake, call the Priest Lake Chamber at 208-443-3191.