Twin Lakes, located in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, is a popular fishing destination for enthusiasts in the United States. The lakes are divided into Upper Twin and Lower Twin, each offering unique fishing opportunities.
Exploring Upper Twin Lake
Upper Twin Lake spans approximately 40.90 acres and has an elevation of 1881 ft. It is open year-round for fishing and is stocked with fry and catchable-size rainbow trout. Additionally, largemouth bass and black crappie are abundant in the lake. Two-pole fishing is allowed, and shoreline access is good, with a launch area and a trail running around the lake.
Fishing Techniques and Tactics
Anglers at Upper Twin Lake can employ a variety of techniques to target the diverse fish species. For rainbow trout, popular methods include using PowerBait, salmon eggs, or small lures like spinners and spoons. Largemouth bass can be caught using topwater lures, crankbaits, and soft plastic baits, while black crappie respond well to small jigs and live minnows.
Seasonal Considerations
The fishing at Upper Twin Lake can vary throughout the year. During the spring and early summer, the trout are typically more active and can be found in the shallower areas of the lake. As the water warms in the summer, the trout may move to deeper, cooler waters, and anglers may need to adjust their tactics accordingly. In the fall and winter, the trout can often be found near the inlet and outlet areas of the lake.
Exploring Lower Twin Lake
Lower Twin Lake, situated adjacent to Upper Twin Lake, is a warmwater fishery with populations of largemouth bass, crappie, pumpkinseed sunfish, and yellow perch. With a maximum depth of only 9 feet, the lake is best for fishing in the spring and early summer before weeds make access and angling more challenging. Two-pole fishing is also allowed in Lower Twin Lake, and shoreline access is good, although limited.
Fishing Techniques and Tactics
Anglers targeting the warmwater species in Lower Twin Lake can use a variety of lures and baits. For largemouth bass, effective presentations include soft plastic worms, crankbaits, and topwater lures. Crappie can be caught using small jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics, while pumpkinseed sunfish and yellow perch respond well to small hooks baited with worms or insects.
Seasonal Considerations
The fishing in Lower Twin Lake is typically best in the spring and early summer when the water temperatures are more favorable for the warmwater species. As the summer progresses and the water warms, the fish may become more lethargic and challenging to catch. Anglers may need to adjust their tactics, such as fishing in the early morning or late evening hours, to find success.
Access and Regulations
Access to Upper Twin Lake is provided by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and contacting them is recommended for access information. The trail to Twin Lakes is an extremely rough forest road, driveable for high-clearance vehicles, providing immediate access to trails to Winchester Lookout, High Pass, and Silesia Creek. Parking at the Yellow Aster Butte Trailhead is a popular option, but it can be difficult to find parking on nice days, requiring a 2.5-mile road walk to arrive at the lakes.
The cost for a one-day fishing license in Washington State is $12 for residents and $29 for non-residents. Annual licenses are also available. For more information on fishing regulations and seasons, visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website.
Conclusion
Twin Lakes, with its diverse fish populations and scenic surroundings, offers a unique fishing experience for anglers in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Whether you’re targeting trout in Upper Twin Lake or the warmwater species in Lower Twin Lake, the lakes provide ample opportunities for a memorable fishing adventure. Remember to check the latest regulations, plan your access, and enjoy the natural beauty of this stunning fishing destination.
References:
- Twin Lakes – Fish Whatcom. Retrieved from https://fishwhatcom.com/fishing-access/whatcom-county/twin-lakes/
- Twin Lakes – Upper | Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. Retrieved from https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/locations/lowland-lakes/twin-lakes-upper
- Twin Lakes (North Cascades) – Washington Trails Association. Retrieved from https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/twin-lakes-2
- Twin Lakes – Lower | Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. Retrieved from https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/locations/lowland-lakes/twin-lakes-lower
- Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest – Fishing:Lake and Pond. Retrieved from https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/mbs/recreation/fishing/?actid=42&recid=17520
- Washington State Fishing License Fees. Retrieved from https://wdfw.wa.gov/licenses/fishing/fees