The rainbow smelt is a small freshwater fish highly prized in Quebec, especially for its delicious flesh and essential role as bait for fishing other species. Although it is not a spectacular fighting fish, its catch is valued for its abundance and ease of access. It is widely distributed in the cold waters of Quebec, particularly in the Saint Lawrence River and adjacent rivers. Its large numbers make it an excellent choice for beginner anglers or those looking to quickly catch many fish.

The rainbow smelt has a slender, elongated body, typically measuring between 15 and 20 cm. Its color is silver, with slightly greenish highlights on the back. The belly is white, and the sides have a distinctive silver band. The mouth is slightly protruding with jaws equipped with small teeth, adapted to its diet. The fins are translucent, with a dorsal fin located towards the center of the back and a smaller adipose fin at the rear. The tail is forked, giving it good agility in the water. The scales are small and easily detachable. Young smelts closely resemble adults, although their color is often duller. During the spawning period, males develop nuptial tubercles on their head and body, while females maintain a similar appearance year-round.

In Quebec, the rainbow smelt is widely present in the Saint Lawrence River, the Gulf, and the rivers that flow into it. It is also found in several lakes and rivers in the regions of Montérégie, Bas-Saint-Laurent, and Gaspésie. It particularly thrives in cold, oxygenated waters, which explains its abundance in northern areas. However, it is less present in closed lakes in southern Quebec where high summer temperatures limit its distribution.

The rainbow smelt prefers cold, well-oxygenated waters. It is usually found near the shores, in estuaries and rivers, where it can shelter among submerged structures like rocks and aquatic vegetation. It often frequents areas of medium depth, between 2 and 10 meters, where the water temperature remains cool even in summer. The best areas to look for it are the mouths of rivers and shallow beaches, especially during spawning in the spring.

The rainbow smelt spawns in the spring, typically between April and May, when the water temperature reaches about 4 to 7 °C. Females lay thousands of adhesive eggs on rocky and sandy substrates in shallow waters. The eggs hatch after about ten days, giving rise to larvae that drift with the current. Young smelts grow quickly and reach sexual maturity in 1 to 2 years. Their lifespan is relatively short, 3 to 5 years. Spring → Spawning and egg-laying → Summer → Growth → Autumn → Winter preparation → Winter → Survival under the ice

The rainbow smelt is a social fish, often forming large schools, especially during the spawning season. It is not territorial and can be easily disturbed by loud noises or sudden movements in the water. Weather conditions have little influence on its behavior, although it is more active on cloudy, cool days. It prefers shaded areas during sunny days, staying sheltered from predators.

The diet of the rainbow smelt varies according to its life stage. Fry primarily feed on zooplankton and small crustaceans. As they grow, their diet expands to include aquatic insects, larvae, and small fish. Adults are opportunistic and consume whatever they can find, including worms and small mollusks. In winter, their feeding activity decreases, but they continue to eat under the ice.

In spring, the rainbow smelt is very active, especially during spawning. It is easier to catch early in the morning and late in the afternoon. In summer, it retreats to deeper waters to avoid the heat but remains active at dawn and dusk. Autumn is a good season for fishing, as it prepares for winter by feeding intensively. In winter, ice fishing is popular, particularly in areas where the ice is thick and safe. The best weather conditions for fishing are cloudy or slightly windy days, with stable atmospheric pressure.

For the rainbow smelt, silver or white lures are the most effective, mimicking their natural appearance. In clear water and under sunny skies, opt for slightly colored lures for better visibility. In murky water or overcast weather, fluorescent or phosphorescent lures may be more attractive. For deep fishing, prioritize lures with shiny details to capture light.

To fish for rainbow smelt, a light rod of 1.8 to 2.1 meters is ideal, with a fast action to feel the delicate bites well. A light reel with a line capacity of 2 to 4 lb is sufficient. Use fine monofilament lines to minimize visibility in the water. Hooks should be small, size 8 to 12, to match the smelt's mouth. A fluorocarbon leader can help reduce visibility for wary fish.

The rainbow smelt is delicate and should be handled with care to avoid damaging its scales and skin. Use wet hands or a fine mesh net to minimize stress. For a successful release, ensure the fish is well oxygenated and released quickly. For the photo, keep the fish in the water until the last moment to prevent it from drying out.

Rainbow smelts are preyed upon by many aquatic predators such as yellow perch, pike, and trout. Diving birds like cormorants and gulls also actively hunt them. Their abundance makes them a crucial link in the aquatic food chain.

The rainbow smelt is abundant in Quebec and is not considered a threatened species. However, fishing is regulated to ensure its sustainability. Anglers must respect quotas and minimum sizes, as well as closure periods during spawning. Catch and release is encouraged to maintain healthy populations.