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European Smelt Fishing in Kent

Kent has 4 shore marks rated for european smelt. They're ranked below by how strongly european smelt show at each spot, with today's live conditions beside every mark — so you can pick a spot that's worth fishing right now, not just on paper.

When to go

Out of season — best Dec–Apr
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Best months: Dec–Apr · green months are prime, the outlined box is this month.

Tide Fish the flood

Time of day Night sessions clearly outfish daylight

Best european smelt marks in Kent

Ranked by how strongly european smelt show at each mark. The chip on the right is today's live fish forecast.

Gravesend Promenade Worth a try for european smelt
Today 60 Fair

Can show in colder conditions; use small hooks, light gear and tiny fish or worm baits where permitted.
Greenhithe Worth a try for european smelt
Today 59 Fair

Seasonal estuary visitor; small, fresh fish strips or tiny worm baits can pick them up.
Oare Marshes Worth a try for european smelt
Today 55 Fair

A cool-season possibility in brackish channels; small strips of fish or fine worm baits work best.
Denton Wharf Worth a try for european smelt
Today 60 Fair

Seasonal estuary visitor, usually taken on tiny fish strips or worm; check local rules and return gently.

Planning ahead? The live fish forecast map compares these marks across the week.

Tactics for european smelt

Top baits, best first

  1. Sabiki
  2. Harbour Rag (Maddies)
  3. Herring Strip
  4. Micro Metal (LRF)

Rigs that work, best first

  1. Feathers / Sabiki
  2. Float (Sliding)
  3. Dropshot

Full tactics, seasonal detail and more baits are on the European Smelt species guide.

European Smelt fishing elsewhere

European Smelt in Bristol European Smelt in Gloucestershire