Saltwater
Sand Smelt
Atherina hepsetus
Hebrew name: מלוחית
- Peak season
- Spring through autumn
- Length range
- 6–15 cm
- Weight range
- 0.01–0.05 kg
- Typical depth
- 0–30 m
Habitat
Sandy shallows, harbours, and estuaries along Mediterranean and east Atlantic coasts. Often caught from piers.
Behavior
Tight schooling baitfish that flashes silver near the surface. Major prey species for predators and a popular live bait.
Best techniques
- Sabiki rigs with tiny hooks
- Bread or fish-paste under float
- Tiny silver lures on ultralight gear
- Pier fishing with maggot or shrimp bits
