Longfin Smelt

Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Alaska south to San Francisco Bay. Found in estuaries, bays, and nearshore coastal waters. Named for the distinctively long pectoral fins. The San Francisco Bay population is of conservation concern — listed as a Species of Special Concern in California.

48°F–58°F. A cold-water smelt that is anadromous in some populations. Spawns in winter in freshwater tributaries.

Best Lures: Tiny Sabiki rigs catch fish when schools are located. Best Baits: Tiny hooks with small shrimp or squid pieces. Dip nets during spawning runs. Important prey species — valuable as live bait for Bay Area Striped Bass and Halibut.

Typically 4–7 inches. A small, slender smelt with notably long pectoral fins. Important prey species for numerous Bay Area birds and fish.