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Large quantities of this small, predatory fish are primarily caught commercially. However, many anglers consider catching smelt to be a matter of luck. Therefore, they try to target these fish in their habitats.
On fishing trips to the Putorana Plateau Siberian Nature Reserve, these predators are caught in the spring. Siberians call them "toothfish." There's also the opportunity to catch many others, such as huge river alligators, pike on the Yenisei River, or noble salmon.
What are the special features of smelt fishing?
Predators of this species are divided into several varieties. The fishing techniques are as follows:
These fish inhabit both fresh and salt water. Fishermen try to catch predatory fish from piers or shores in urban waters where they live.
Fishing from a boat, raft, or other watercraft is practically uncommon. The trophy fish caught are neither long nor heavy, and constantly lugging these items to the water is considered unnecessary work.
Smelt should be sought at depths of 2 to 3 meters. Early morning is ideal, but fishing can also be productive at night, when the predator begins its hunt for prey.
When fishing for smelt, don't use groundbait. In rare cases, spray-type baits can be used.
· The main effective fishing tackle is considered to be the self-made lures, the hooks of which are equipped with multi-colored feathers.
Spinning rods, telescopic rods with floats, and pickers are used to hunt this predator. The fish is caught not only for its delicious dishes but also as a bait to catch larger predators such as pike and zander.
Fishing rod equipment
The classic option for catching smelt is a telescopic rod at least 3 meters long. It's equipped with a bite alarm, a spinning reel, fishing line, a leader, and multiple hooks.
In spring, predator fishing is done with Bolognese or match rods. For baitcasters, monofilament lines with a diameter of 0.2-0.25 mm are used. The key is to have plenty of leaders with hooks. They are 5 cm long and 0.12 mm in diameter. The weights should match the current in the water.
Spinning rod equipment
To achieve trophy fishing, you need spinning rods with ultra-sensitive blanks. Ultralight models with a 7-gram casting weight are ideal. They are no longer than 2.4 meters. Actions can vary, from slow to ultra-fast.
A 1000-2000mm spinning reel and 0.1mm braided line are ideal. A fluorocarbon leader is ideal, with a length ranging from 15 to 30 cm. Small lures, such as wobblers, silicone lures, and spoons, are recommended.
Briefly about the main thing
Housewives prepare delicious dishes from smelt, and when caught commercially, smoking the fish has become especially popular. It's fatty, tasty, and very aromatic.
The small size of these fish never stops anglers. This predatory fish is excellent both as a culinary treat and as bait for larger predatory species. Therefore, smelt is always very popular and in demand.
