However, what about when you're served a plate of smelts? Even for seasoned fish enthusiasts, these small and slender animals can be confusing. Often dredged and fried whole, it's not always clear ...

Nicknamed the "French fry of the lake," smelt are a bite-sized, mild-flavored fish that are best served lightly dredged and deep-fried. On average, they grow to about five inches in length ...