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.