Eulachon, also known as Columbia River smelt, candlefish or hooligan, are found in the eastern north Pacific Ocean. They range from northern California to southwest Alaska and into the southeastern Bering Sea. Smelt typically spend three to five years in saltwater before returning to freshwater to spawn in late winter through mid spring.
Oct. 20, 2011: We designated final critical habitat for the southern distinct population segment (DPS) of Pacific eulachon. The designation will take effect on Dec. 19, 2011.
March 16, 2010: We announced that we're listing the southern distinct population segment (DPS) of Pacific eulachon as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The listing became effective on May 17, 2010.
Contacts: Marc Romano, 503-231-2200, for the Northwest;
and Jim Simondet, 707-825-5171, for California.
