Loading map...
♥ Donate

Deep-sea smelt

Glossanodon semifasciatus

Deep-sea smelt© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Deep-sea smelt (Glossanodon semifasciatus) is a marine fish species that is not commonly targeted by recreational anglers. It has a slender body and is found in deep waters. While it's not particularly known for its fighting ability or edibility, it can still provide an interesting catch for those venturing into deeper waters.

Fight
Taste

Basic Information

Family

Argentinidae

Max Size

22.7 cm

Habitat

marine

Depth Range

70-1017m

Climate

temperate

Best Season

Deep-sea smelt can be caught year-round, but they may be more abundant during warmer months when they move closer to the surface at night.

Best Time

Nighttime, when they move closer to the surface in search of food.

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Deep-sea smelt

  • Use a sturdy rod and reel with a capacity to handle deep-water fishing.
  • Employ a deep-sea fishing technique such as trolling or using a fish finder to locate schools.
  • Smelt are often attracted to light, so consider using a lighted lure or a glow-in-the-dark jig.
  • Be prepared for a potentially long wait, as deep-sea fishing can be unpredictable.

Top Fishing Locations for Deep-sea smelt

Offshore of New Zealand's South Island

New Zealand
intermediate60% Common

Deep-sea smelt are abundant in the waters off New Zealand's South Island, particularly around the Otago Peninsula and the southern coast.

Best: March to October

Gulf of Alaska, USA

USA
expert40% Occasional

The Gulf of Alaska is known for its rich deep-sea fishing, including deep-sea smelt. Anglers can target them in the waters around the Kenai Peninsula and Prince William Sound.

Best: June to September

Flemish Cap, North Atlantic

International Waters
expert30% Occasional

The Flemish Cap is a renowned fishing spot in the North Atlantic, known for its deep-sea fish. Anglers can target deep-sea smelt in this area, which is accessible by charter boat from Canada or Europe.

Best: May to October

Offshore of Japan's Tohoku Region

Japan
intermediate50% Common

The Tohoku region in northern Japan is known for its deep-sea fishing, including deep-sea smelt. Anglers can target them in the waters around the Sanriku Coast.

Best: April to November

Davis Strait, between Greenland and Canada

International Waters
expert20% Uncommon

The Davis Strait is a remote and challenging fishing destination, but it's known for its deep-sea fish, including deep-sea smelt. Accessible by charter boat or expedition cruise.

Best: June to September

Kerguelen Islands, French Southern Territories

French Southern Territories
expert25% Uncommon

The Kerguelen Islands are a remote archipelago in the southern Indian Ocean, known for their pristine waters and diverse marine life, including deep-sea smelt. Accessible by charter boat or research vessel.

Best: November to March

Rockall Trough, North Atlantic

International Waters
expert35% Occasional

The Rockall Trough is a deep-sea fishing destination in the North Atlantic, known for its rich marine life, including deep-sea smelt. Accessible by charter boat from the UK or Europe.

Best: April to October

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Deep-sea smelt

Recommended Equipment

RodSturdy, heavy-action rod
Line15-20 kg (30-40 lb) test line
Lure TypeJigs or spoons that can imitate small baitfish
TechniqueTrolling or vertical jigging

Best bait: Small fish or squid pieces