Topsmelt
Atherinops affinis
SmeltSaltwater
Range
Eastern Pacific Ocean — from British Columbia south to Baja California. One of the most common small fish in California coastal waters — extremely abundant in harbors, bays, kelp beds, and nearshore coastal areas. A very common catch from California piers. Forms large schools near the surface.
How to Catch Topsmelt
Equipment
55°F–68°F. Found near the surface in nearshore coastal waters, bays, and around pier structure. Forms enormous schools visible from piers. Spawns on algae-covered rocks — adhesive eggs attach to algae in intertidal areas.
Tackle & Bait
Best Lures:
Small Sabiki rigs with hooks tied to float at the right depth are the classic pier technique.
Best Baits:
Small pieces of shrimp on Sabiki-style multi-hook rigs are the most effective approach. A great species for family pier fishing — bites readily and is usually very abundant.
Small Sabiki rigs with hooks tied to float at the right depth are the classic pier technique.
Best Baits:
Small pieces of shrimp on Sabiki-style multi-hook rigs are the most effective approach. A great species for family pier fishing — bites readily and is usually very abundant.
Game Qualities
Typically 10–18 inches and 0.5–1.5 lbs. The largest of the California smelt species. World record: 4 lbs. Good eating — mild, slightly oily flesh. Outstanding pan-fried whole. Also an important live bait species for larger fish.
Taxonomy
| kingdom | Animalia |
| phylum | Chordata |
| class | Actinopterygii |
| order | Atheriniformes |
| family | Atherinopsidae |
| genus | Atherinops |
| species | Atherinops affinis |
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