Idlewild Lake
Tucked into the Kootenays region at 977 m elevation, this is a small water (< 50 ha) reachable via the region's usual road and trail network. Tap through to the map for the exact route in.
Open Idlewild Lake in the app for the 7-day forecast, depth map and wildfire smoke check
Idlewild Lake at a glance
- Region
- Region 4 - Kootenays
- Management unit
- MU 4-3
- Elevation
- 977 m
- Maximum depth
- 14.4 m
- Surface area
- 35.0 ha
- Trout strain
- Gerrard & Westslope Cutthroat & Premier Rainbow Strains
- Typical size
- 1.5 to 2.5 lbs (Quality Catchable)
- Stocking
- Stocked / Natural Wild Production (FFSBC)
- Boat launch
- Gravel Boat Ramp
- Motor rules
- 🚤 Gas & Electric Permitted
- Ice fishing
- Open, confirmed
When to fish it
- May - June
- September - October
Getting there
Access via regional highway and maintained forestry road in Kootenays (MU 4-3). Gravel Boat Ramp available.
Coordinates: 50.9481, -115.6322
Regulations
(old Cranbrook Reservoir) ILLECILLEWAET RIVER IRISHMAN CREEK
Always check the current BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis before you go. Regulations change in season.
Camping and rec sites at Idlewild Lake
- Idlewild Lake Recreation Site
Day-use recreation access, boat launch, and shoreline fishing.
Facilities: Boat Launch, Parking
Access: Maintained 2WD forestry road access in Kootenays.
Coordinates: 50.9481, -115.6322 Official page
Local shops and lodges in the Kootenays
- High Country Sports, Cranbrook, BC
Kootenay lake tackle, fly gear, camping & local outdoor knowledge
High Country Sports website - Kootenay Fly Shop, Fernie, BC
Westslope cutthroat patterns, high-elevation lake flies & gear
Kootenay Fly Shop website
Other lakes nearby
Data from the BC Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship, the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulations Synopsis, and Sites and Trails BC.