Fishing with Live Bait & Natural Baits
Smelt are a popular fish that is common in the Great Lakes. Smelt are typically fried and eaten whole because they are so small.
How to Catch Smelt
Smelt are one of the few fish that recreational anglers are allowed to net. Using dip nets, anglers will net smelt along the coastline, in streams and along the shorelines of the Great Lakes.
Using Smelt as Bait
Smelt are usually used as cut bait or on a trolling rig. Fish them on your favorite bottom rig when using them as cut bait. On the trolling rigs, you will usually use the entire fish or you may cut the head off and use the rest of the body.
