Upper Twin Lakes in Idaho is a natural freshwater lake with a dam owned by the Twin Lakes Rathdrum Flood Control District 17, which is used to regulate water levels for irrigation and drinking water. The lake is made up of two bodies of water, the upper and lower lakes, with the upper lake reaching across 500 acres and having a maximum depth of 20 feet, while the lower lake has a surface area of 350 acres and a maximum depth of 60 feet. The lake is located in Kootenai County, Idaho, and is surrounded by the Coeur d’Alene National Forest to the east and Mt. Spokane State Park to the west, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Protective Organizations of Upper Twin Lakes
The Twin Lakes Idaho Community Website, Twin Lakes Improvement Association, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, and North Kootenai Water and Sewer District are organizations that protect Twin Lakes. The Idaho Lake Protection Act is a law that protects single family docks on the lake.
Fishing in Upper Twin Lake
Upper Twin Lake is 525.4 acres and is a recommended fishing water in the Spokane River Drainage. The recommended game fish in Upper Twin Lake include Bluegill, Bullhead Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Yellow Perch, and White Crappie. The species observed in surveys in Upper Twin Lake include Black Bullhead, Black Crappie, Bluegill, Brook Trout, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Pumpkinseed, Rainbow Trout, Tench, Yellow Perch, Green Sunfish, Brown Bullhead, Bullhead, and Northern Pikeminnow.
| Fish Species | Abundance |
|---|---|
| Bluegill | Common |
| Bullhead Catfish | Common |
| Largemouth Bass | Common |
| Northern Pike | Common |
| Yellow Perch | Common |
| White Crappie | Common |
Boating Rules and Regulations
The Kootenai County Boating Rules are in effect since spring of 2021 and include basic rules, rules for Upper Twin Lakes, and rules for Lower Twin Lakes. The basic rules include not operating a vessel in a negligent manner, reporting accidents or collisions, and children age fourteen and under wearing an approved life jacket. The rules for Upper Twin Lakes include speed limits, no excessive wake zones, and no waterskiing/tubing on the CDA River.
Floating Hazards in Upper Twin Lakes
The floating things on Kootenai County Lakes include HABS- “Hazardous Algal Blooms” and migrating Quagga Mussels & Idaho Inspection Stations. Idaho intercepts and decontaminates more boats compared to any other Northwest state, and boat owners on Twin Lakes who take their boats to other lakes should ensure the boat gets cleaned to prevent cross-contamination between Lakes. Currently, Twin Lakes is free from mussels and Eurasian Milfoil.
Conclusion
Upper Twin Lakes in Idaho is a stunning natural freshwater lake that offers a variety of outdoor activities and amenities for visitors. From fishing and boating to hiking and wildlife viewing, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful and well-protected lake. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to follow the boating rules and regulations and be aware of any potential floating hazards to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
References:
– Twin Lakes Idaho Community Website
– Idaho Fish and Game Fishing Planner
– Twin Lakes Improvement Association