Hosmer is a "fly fishing only” lake well known for its breath taking viewsof Mt. Bachelor, South Sisters, Broken top, wildlife viewing and the big Atlantic salmon, brook trout and rainbows that are quite visible in this shallow clear lake. John Huber (1998 compares Hosmer Lake to a spring creek because many of the fish are easy to see, giving you a clear view of one denial after another. At Hosmer Lake, the Atlantic salmon average 16 inches (largest in the 22 inch range) and brook trout average 14 inches. Hosmer Lake is also a very popular lake for canoeists because of the beautiful surroundings, the abundant wildlife, waterfowl and easily seen large fish swimming around.

Hosmer Lake is located on the Deschutes National Forest, just East of Elk Lake on the North end of Cascade Lakes Highway, about 39 miles from Bend. Hosmer Lake has two major pools connected by a channel about a mile long. The lake has a rich and abundant aquatic life.

Hosmer Lake was originally named Mud Lake because a large population of introduced carp stirred up the fine pumice and detritus bottom causing muddy water. In 1965, the name was changed to honor Paul Hosmer, a long-time resident of Bend and well-known amateur naturalist (ODFW, 1996).

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