Japanese Smelt

Lake Ogawara is the largest lake in Aomori prefecture and the largest source of icefish in Japan. It is also the largest source of Japanese smelt.
As the long winter approaches and the lake freezes, ice fishing for Japanese smelt has become a winter tradition in the Lake Ogawara area. Specifically, Lake Anenuma neighboring Lake Ogawara sees an increase in Japanese smelt as they come to spawn, making it a great spot for ice fishing enthusiasts. Fishing gears and tents become available for visitors to rent.

Japanese smelt gains fat as autumn deepens and reaches peak season in winter. It has a refreshing, simple taste.
It is commonly appreciated as tempura, fried, karaage, or tsukudani (boiled down in soy sauce).