Twin Lakes

Located just north of Rathdrum, Idaho, are a pair of peaceful glacier carved lakes nestled among the forests and hills of Kootenai County.

Upper Twin Lake and Lower Twin Lake are connected by a narrow channel, each with its own quiet charm. Surrounded by pine trees and waterfront cabins, the lakes are a local favorite for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying the view. The calm, clear water reflects the sky and hills beautifully, making mornings on the lake feel almost still and timeless.

The Twin Lakes community is small, friendly, and full of North Idaho character. Many of the homes around the lake have been passed down through generations, giving the area a deep rooted and lived in feel. Whether you are watching the sunset from a dock or sipping coffee on a porch while loons call in the distance, life here tends to slow down. People wave from their boats, neighbors chat on morning walks, and there is a sense that nobody is in a hurry.

Despite its quiet setting, Twin Lakes is close to town. Rathdrum is just a few minutes away for groceries and essentials, and Coeur d’Alene is only a short drive down Highway 41. That balance of feeling peaceful and remote without being far from anything makes the Twin Lakes area a special place to live or visit. Whether you are spending a summer day on the water or enjoying a snowy winter morning by the fire, Twin Lakes offers a year round escape that feels just right.

• Target warm, shallow water – In spring and summer, bass cruise the shallows near structure like docks, brush, and weed lines.
• Match the hatch – Use soft plastics, crankbaits, or jigs that mimic crawfish or baitfish—especially in natural colors.
• Fish early morning or evening – Bass are most active during low-light hours when water temps are ideal.
• Slow it down on hot days – When the sun’s high, work your baits slower and deeper near cover or drop-offs.

• Fish early or late – Trout bite best at dawn and dusk, especially in low-light conditions.
• Troll deep in summer – Use a dodger and short leader with corn or a worm when trout move to cooler depths.
• Use the right bait from shore – PowerBait or marshmallows on a sliding rig work great in the shallows during spring, fall, and winter.
• Follow the stocking schedule – Fishing tends to heat up shortly after each stocking, so time your trips accordingly.

• Target weed edges and shallow bays – Pike often ambush prey along weed lines, especially in spring and early summer.
• Use flashy, aggressive lures – Crankbaits, spoons, spinnerbaits, and large swimbaits trigger reaction strikes.
• Fish during cooler parts of the day – Early morning and late evening offer the best chance for active pike.
• Go big for big bites – Don’t be afraid to throw larger lures or dead bait when targeting trophy-sized fish.