Family Osmeridae - smelts
Found only in the north Pacific, north Atlantic and Arctic regions, smelts
are primarily marine, some anadromous, but a few spend their entire lives in
fresh water. These fish form large schools and serve as a forage fish for larger
fishes.
Whitebait smelt- Allosmerus elongatus
Remarks: Occasionally found
within the bay but more common outside. Preyed upon by a number of marine
organisms.
Identification: A large tooth hangs from the
roof of the mouth. Mouth extends past eye. Caudal peduncle width equal to eye
diameter. Coloration tan above and lighter below; to a length of
18cm.
Range: A coastal schooling species from Vancouver
Island to San Francisco.
Surf smelt- Hypomesus pretiosus
Remarks: Frequents the bay
but prefers the coastal surf zones. A forage fish for marine mammals and larger
fish. Caught in the surf by anglers using nets: excellent fried or
smoked.
Identification: Jaw ends at mideye. First dorsal
and pelvic fins opposite. Body color silvery with a darker stripe on the sides.
Length to 25cm.
Range: Gulf of Alaska to southern
California.
Night smelt- Spirinchus starksi
Remarks: Observed
during all seasons in the bay but common in surf zones. Similar habitat and life
history to the surf smelt but the night smelt spawn at night and the surf smelt
spawn during the day.
Identification: Mouth extends past
eye. Enlarged teeth on tongue. Caudal peduncle wider than eye diameter. Body
color yellowish tan and lighter below. Maximum size 23cm.
Range: Southeast Alaska to central California.
Longfin smelt- Spirinchus
thaleichthys
Remarks: Formerly common, now
extremely rare within the bay. This species is anadromous and remains in coastal
waters.
Identification: Pectoral fin sometimes extends past
origin of pelvic fin. Anal fin commonly rounded, especially in males. Coloration
is olive to tan above and silver below. Length to 15cm.
Range:
Gulf of Alaska to Monterey Bay.
Eulachon- Thaleichthys pacificus
Remarks:
Seldom observed in the bay, common may be in coastal areas near large
rivers. Anadromous, spawning in March and April. Indians utilized this fish for
food and itÍs oil content.
Identification: Striations on
gill operculum. Skin feels rough. Lateral line distinct at midbody. Body brown
above and lighter below. Length to 25cm.
Range: Bering Sea
to Monterey Bay.