Differ from the Smelt of Europe in several particulars. The name refers to their peculiar smell, which resembles the odor of cucumbers, and is strongest when the fish are first captured. Dishonest dealers sell Tom-cod for Smelt. These are low-priced, inferior, and without odor or flavor. Smelt are plentiful in the neighborhood of New York City, in such waters as the Passaic, Hackensack, Raritan, and Hudson Rivers, and small tidal creeks. They spawn at the head of fresh-water streams. Emigrating from the north they appear in New York Bay in November and December. The catch extends from Maine to Maryland.

For tackle use silk line, or silk and hair line; Limerick Trout hooks, Nos. 2 to 5, on single gut leaders; a sinker is recommended, to overcome the tide. Bait with shrimp, minnow, or piece of frog.