Surf Smelt

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Hypomesus pretiosus

Also known as: Day Smelt; Silver Smelt

Baitfish & Smelt Native Stable

Size & Weight

Average Length 6.0"

Max Length 10.0"

Average Weight 0.3 lbs

Max Weight 0.5 lbs

Lifespan 5 years

Habitat

Depth Range 0 - 60 ft

Water Temp 45-55°F

Surf zone; sandy beaches; spawn in surf on gravel

Behavior

Spawning Season Spring-fall (varies by location; daylight spawning)

Migration: Spawn on beaches; otherwise nearshore

Diet: Plankton; small crustaceans

Fishing Tips

PNW Season Spawning openings vary

View season chart →

Techniques: Dip netting during spawning; small hooks

Best Bait: Small pieces of worm; shrimp

Eating Quality

Edibility Good

Delicate; excellent fried whole

Fun Facts

Spawn in daylight (unlike night smelt); important forage; dipnetted during spawn runs

How to Identify

Small silvery fish; found beaches; important forage species; schooling near shore

Commonly Confused With

Eulachon Baitfish & Smelt

Jacksmelt Baitfish & Smelt

Compare Side-by-Side

Official Resources

WDFW (Washington) CDFW (California)

Sources: WDFW; ODFW

Change History (Last updated Feb 02, 2026 at 10:33 AM)

Date	Change	Old Value	New Value
Feb 02, 2026 10:33 AM	Updated Avg Length	—	6.0