When do the smelt run on Lake Michigan?

Answer: The Lake Michgian smelt run is typically between late March and the end of April. Smelt in Lake Michigan have declined dramatically since their peak in the mid-1980's. A half-full pail has been considered a very good catch in recent years. Last year, the catch was spotty, varying from evening to evening.

Most smelting in the Milwaukee area is currently done at Jones Island. At times, McKinley Pier is also good. The fishing is done with frame dip nets. Please consult the Wisconsin spearing and netting regulations for more information.

The Lake Michigan Fishing Hotline at 414.382.7920 will contain information on the smelt run. It is updated on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Briefly, to help keep smelt out of inland waters and from harming native fish communities, please follow these tips:

• Do not transport or use live smelt for bait.
• Do not dispose of smelt entrails, or clean buckets that once contained entrails, in Wisconsin waters.
• Do not seine or collect minnows from waters that contain smelt.
• Always drain your livewells, bilge water, and transom well before leaving the water access.
• Never release unused bait fish into any body of water.

Frequently Asked Questions

For additional information on Wisconsin fishing (e.g., maps, fish consumption advisories), please see our list of Frequently Asked Questions.