Pass Lake — Attraction in Washington

Lake is fly fishing only and catch and release only and has some big trout. Spin/bait fishing here will get you yelled at by the fly anglers at best and a pricey ticket from the game warden (who lives on the hill above the lake) at worst. Wouldn't recommend it for a swimming spot, gets toxic algae blooms in the summer/early fall. Lots of people tend to stop by and take a look around from their car due to it being right off hwy 20. Definitely not a quiet spot either with the jets going over and hwy running by it. If you can tolerate all that it's great for fly fishing or a walk around the trail. Want to be really un popular with the local anglers? Clog up the boat ramp with children wading in the water. There are lots of great swim spots on other nearby lakes (without algae blooms!). Spend the extra 5 min googling and take the family to one of those and leave this for the kayakers...

In the 1970s there was a plan by a developer to build condominiums and a shopping center on Pass Lake. My father Rupert Schmitt started an organization called Save Pass Lake to stop the development. He and a small group of environmentalists and nature lovers were successful in saving the lake. I think It's worth reflecting on the people who've stepped up to save the small fragments of the natural world...

A favorite destination to hike as well as a frequent stop when driving past the area for quick photo op. Provides easy access to Big Cedar trail as well as Bowman Bay trails as well as other hiking. Fine reflections of the area in the lake are common early and...