Research Document - 2002/115

Review of Surf Smelt (Hypomesus pretiosus) Biology and Fisheries, with Suggested Management Options for British Columbia

By T.W. Therriault, A.N. McDiarmid, W. Wulff, D.E. Hay

Abstract

Surf smelt (Hypomesus pretiosus) occur throughout temperate coastal regions of the northeast Pacific. Despite small local fisheries operating for over a century, primarily in Washington State and British Columbia, notably Burrard Inlet, San Juan Inlet and Prince Rupert Harbour, the distribution and abundance of this species has been poorly described. During the early 1900s most smelt were taken in small, commercial fisheries for local consumption. The commercial fishery peaked in 1904 with a coastwide catch of over 230mt. Since then the commercial fishery has largely disappeared and is being replaced by a growing recreational fishery that peaks during spring and summer months at surf smelt spawning beaches. This rapidly expanding recreational fishery has raised concerns that the fishery might not be sustainable, especially if an increased proportion of the recreation catch is intended for commercial markets. Therefore, we provide a precautionary management strategy for surf smelt in British Columbia including recommendations.

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