Shishamo: The Willow-Leaf Fish
Shishamo (Spirinchus lanceolatus), a type of smelt, is found along Hokkaido’s Pacific coast. Its name is derived from the Ainu words susu ham or shushu hamo, meaning “willow-leaf fish,” as it is similar in size and shape to a willow leaf.
Shishamo are anadromous, meaning that they migrate from the sea to freshwater to spawn. From mid-October to early December, shishamo in the Kushiro region migrate upstream to spawn in the Shin-Kushiro, Akan, Shoro, and Charo Rivers. They are a prized food source in Japan, usually grilled whole. Fishing is limited to the spawning season.