Winnipesaukee Smelt

The Winnipesaukee Smelt is a highly effective streamer pattern designed to imitate the smelt, a primary forage fish for trout and landlocked salmon in New England waters. This fly is a staple for anglers fishing in the lakes and rivers of New Hampshire, particularly in the Winnipesaukee region, where smelt are a key part of the food chain. With its lifelike profile, subtle flash, and natural movement, the Winnipesaukee Smelt is an excellent choice for drawing aggressive strikes from predatory fish.

Tied with premium materials, this streamer features a sleek, flowing wing that enhances its realistic swimming action. Its silver, white, and darker back coloration closely mimics real smelt, making it particularly effective in clear waters where fish rely on sight to locate prey. Whether used in still water or moving currents, this fly consistently produces results.

To fish the Winnipesaukee Smelt effectively, swing it through deep runs, strip it with short, erratic bursts to imitate a fleeing baitfish, or troll it in lake settings where trout and salmon are actively feeding on smelt. This fly is especially productive in the spring and fall when baitfish are abundant and fish are aggressively feeding.