Fishing at Upper Twin Lake, Orange County, New York

• Overview

  In New York, Upper Twin Lake falls inside Orange County. The setting is mixed woodland on every side. Small at around 24 acres: two anglers spread out cover most of it. Nearest town is Central Valley, 2.5 miles off. It is 27 miles to Paterson, the nearest city. Within easy reach: Lower Twin Lake (0.5 miles), Lake Te-Ata lies 0.6 miles on, Summit Lake (0.7 miles), Barnes Lake lies 1 mile on and Lake Massawippa (1.1 miles). Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Upper Twin Lake

  No figure exists for depth, so let the water show you. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. Records held for Orange County cover common carp, brook trout and bluegill. It is the county picture; the agency list is water-specific. Anyone new to Upper Twin Lake should walk it once before setting up.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 71°F on average, January about 26°F. A lid forms in a hard winter only. It is not guaranteed from one year to the next. June to September is hot work, so the first and last hours are what count. Anyone fishing Upper Twin Lake regularly works to that calendar. Cool nights slow the mornings but sharpen the evenings.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. There is a jetty half a mile off, worth knowing on a busy day. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. Read any posted signs at the access point rather than assuming. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. For a change of water, Lower Twin Lake is 0.5 miles distant. Rules at Upper Twin Lake are worth checking on the day.