Eastern Pacific Ocean — from Alaska south to Central California. Found in nearshore coastal waters and in bays. The Longfin Smelt is particularly associated with San Francisco Bay. An important food fish and bait species in the Pacific Northwest.
Water Conditions
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46°F–56°F. A cold-water smelt that is anadromous in some populations — entering freshwater rivers to spawn. A schooling species found in open coastal water.
Tackle & Bait
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Best Lures:
Tiny Sabiki rigs catch fish when schools are located.
Best Baits:
Tiny pieces of shrimp on small hooks catch fish. Dip nets during spawning runs. Outstanding live and fresh-dead bait for larger Pacific species including Lingcod, Halibut, and large Rockfish.
Size & Sport
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Typically 5–8 inches. A small, silver smelt. Good eating — oily flesh similar to other Pacific smelt. Used as bait and food throughout its range.